ລາວ
An interview with Lao Airlines’ new Managing Director
In this exclusive interview, Mr. Viengxay Singkham, Managing Director of Lao Airlines, shares his vision for the national carrier’s future—one that blends innovation, regional expansion, and the warm, welcoming spirit of Lao hospitality. With decades of experience in aviation, he is now steering the airline toward new heights in both service and global connectivity.
1. Would you mind introducing yourself to our readers?
My journey with aviation began in the mountains of Houaphan Province, where I was born in December 1973. I started my career as an air traffic controller in 1993 and have been fortunate to grow with Laos’ aviation industry for three decades now. I climbed steadily through various positions, from leading the Air Transport Department to eventually serving as Director General of the Department of Civil Aviation in 2021. Earlier this year, I accepted the position of Managing Director at Lao Airlines, bringing with me perspectives from nearly every facet of Lao aviation.
Throughout my career, I’ve developed a business philosophy centered on anticipation and adaptation. I believe success in aviation requires staying ahead of industry trends, delivering service with genuine heart and efficiency, creating distinctive experiences that separate us from competitors, and ensuring our team deeply understands our passengers’ needs. Ultimately, our dual focus must always be retaining loyal customers while continuously attracting new ones.
2. In what direction will you lead Lao Airlines in the future?
As the national flag carrier entirely owned by the government, we’re entering an exciting new chapter. The government is actively seeking international partnerships to enhance our competitive position globally, and I’m excited to be leading this transformation.
W e are currently in promising negotiations with COMAC, the Chinese aircraft manufacturer. I expect we will finalize a joint venture by late 2025, which will significantly strengthen our operational capabilities.
Beyond partnerships, my strategy is comprehensive: we are simultaneously enhancing service quality with our distinctive Lao warmth, maintaining our impeccable safety record through rigorous compliance with international standards, investing in employee development, and expanding our route network. I see strategic cooperation with world-leading airlines as crucial while we pursue operational efficiency—reducing costs, increasing revenue streams, and establishing sustainable profitability.
3. What do you think are the strengths of Lao Airlines?
Our greatest asset is our heritage. With over three decades of service excellence, we have earned both ISO certification for management and service quality and the prestigious IATA Operational Safety Audit certification— credentials that position us as a trusted partner for airlines worldwide.
I’m particularly proud of our uniquely Lao approach to hospitality. Beyond our technical capabilities, it is our warm, genuine service that differentiates us. We are also the only carrier offering regional connectivity throughout Laos, supported by our own comprehensive maintenance facilities and skilled technicians who even provide services to other airlines operating here.
Beyond our core services, we’re always looking for ways to enhance the travel experience—such as creating attractive travel packages that cater to a wide range of customers. These efforts combine to make Lao Airlines a trusted and versatile partner in aviation.
4. Are there any new routes that Lao Airlines will launch?
Connectivity is our mandate, and I’m committed to expanding our international presence. In line with the government’s vision to better connect Laos with the region and the world, we’re actively exploring new international routes. This includes destinations in China, South Korea, Japan, Russia, and throughout the ASEAN region.
We’re taking a two-pronged approach: launching direct flights where possible and building partnerships through interline and codeshare agreements. Some of the new China routes under consideration include Vientiane to Shantou (SWA) and Zhejiang (ZHA), and we’re planning to resume services to Shanghai (PVG) as well. These expansions reflect my commitment to positioning Lao Airlines as a vital connector between Laos and the world.
5. What are your favorite places to visit?
In my travels across the region, I’ve found unique joy in different destinations. China offers incredible contrasts between Shanghai’s modernity, Guangzhou’s unique energy, and Beijing’s historical grandeur. Vietnam is a nation of beauty, from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City. I also enjoy Cambodia, seeing Angkor Wat, and the development of Phnom Penh. In Thailand, I’m drawn to the diversity—from Bangkok’s energy to Chiang Mai’s cultural richness and Phuket’s coastal beauty. Korea is also a uniquely modern and historical place to visit.
But my heart always returns to Laos—the spiritual tranquility of Luang Prabang, Pakse’s natural wonders, my home province of Houaphan with its revolutionary history, Xieng Khouang’s mysterious jars, and Luang Namtha’s breathtaking landscapes. These places have shaped not only my personal appreciation for travel but also my vision for what Lao Airlines can offer visitors to our beautiful country.
