Flight VN11, which departed from Ho Chi Minh City for Paris on the evening of September 16, showcased Vietnam Airlines’ participation in the 2024 Aviation Challenge (TAC 2024) organized by the global airline alliance SkyTeam. This flight also served as the airline's response to the United Nations' International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer.

On the special flight, Vietnam Airlines conducted various activities to raise awareness and promote environmental protection among passengers. The passengers were also presented with a special gift: a plush toy representing the critically endangered white-cheeked gibbon (Nomascus leucogenys) - one of the world’s rarest primate species. This gesture aligns with the "Contribute Leaves to the Forests - For a Green and Sustainable Vietnam" campaign.

The campaign is organized by Vietnam Airlines in partnership with MoMo and Pan Nature, aiming to restore 50 hectares of forest in the corridor between Mai Chau District (Hoa Binh Province) and Van Ho District (Son La Province) in Northwest Vietnam. It not only focuses on reforesting the area and cutting CO2 emissions to combat climate change but also seeks to raise awareness about forest protection within local communities and conserve the region's unique biodiversity, particularly the critically endangered white-cheeked gibbon, of which only 14 individuals remain.

Furthermore, flight VN11 promoted the concept of "light flying," encouraging passengers to minimize their luggage weight on this route. By carrying fewer items, passengers helped reduce the aircraft's overall weight, which in turn can lower fuel consumption and decrease CO2 emissions.

VN11 passengers were specifically encouraged to reduce non-essential items, such as extra clothing and shoes, for the Ho Chi Minh City–Paris route. Those who participated in this initiative received special gifts from Vietnam Airlines as an incentive.

To operate flight VN11 in line with SkyTeam’s challenge, Vietnam Airlines utilized a Boeing 787-9 equipped with next-generation engines that significantly reduce emissions and noise pollution. It also optimized the flight path to Europe, which not only shortened travel times but also lowered fuel consumption and minimized environmental impact. These strategies—utilizing a modern fleet and optimizing flight paths—are crucial to Vietnam Airlines' commitment to sustainable development.

Moreover, flight VN11 significantly reduced the use of nylon and single-use plastics, a practice that Vietnam Airlines has committed to across its network for years. This initiative has led to the elimination of tens of millions of plastic items and bags each year.

For in-flight meals, Vietnam Airlines prioritized local and seasonal ingredients and implemented strict procedures to recover and recycle high-quality dry goods and disposable utensils, effectively reducing unnecessary waste.

The airline has also collaborated with the United States Soybean Export Council (USSEC) to create healthier and more sustainable meal trays. Each meal incorporates enhanced vegetables and plant-based ingredients, prepared using nutritious cooking methods. Importantly, the fish and seafood served meet ASC standards - an internationally recognized certification for responsibly farmed seafood that reduces negative impacts on the environment, ecosystems, and local communities. This initiative is further supported by sustainably sourced U.S. soybean products.

Participating in The Aviation Challenge  aligns with Vietnam Airlines' development strategy in response to the environmental challenges facing both the global and domestic aviation industries. As the national flag carrier, Vietnam Airlines is committed to its social and environmental responsibilities, including collaborating with the Government to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, while actively engaging as a responsible member of the SkyTeam alliance.

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"The Aviation Challenge" (TAC) is an initiative launched by the global airline alliance SkyTeam, aimed at promoting sustainable innovation within the aviation industry.

Originally introduced in 2022 as 'The Sustainable Flight Challenge' (TSFC), the program has been renamed this year to reflect a more comprehensive approach that encompasses all facets of aviation. Airlines worldwide participating in this challenge will both compete and collaborate to promote sustainable solutions, aiming to minimize the aviation industry’s impact on the environment.

TAC 2024’s theme is 'Adoption,' focusing on encouraging airlines to integrate and apply more sustainable solutions across all operations - from fuel management, flight operations, and in-flight services to ground handling, cargo processing, and the use of digital technology to enhance resource conservation. Vietnam Airlines previously participated in the TSFC in 2023, where it achieved notable success./.