Three coach operators have jointed a pilot program to offer rides for about VNĐ40,000 (US$1.8) per ride from downtown Hanoi to Noi Bai International Airport beginning this month.

The operators are Hai Van International Transport Joint Venture Company, Viet Thanh Transport Ltd Company and ABC Taxi Service Joint Stocks Company.

They will open three coach routes to Noi Bai International Aiport. The first route will have stops at Thong Nhat Park, Quang Trung Street, Hai Ba Trung, Ly Thai To, Chuong Duong Bridge, Nguyen Van Cu and Dong Tru Bridge.

The second route includes stops at Hoang Cau Street, Thai Ha, Cau Giay, Buoi, Vo Chi Cong and Nhat Tan Bridge.

The third route will stop at Nuoc Ngam Station, Linh Dam, Nguyen Xien, Ring Road 3, Pham Van Dong and Thang Long Bridge.

Signals will be set up for coaches to pick up passengers.

Currently, people can only travel from Hanoi’s centre to Noi Bai Airport by taxis that cost about VNĐ200,000 ($9) per ride, by airline cars that cost VNĐ40,000 per ride and by bus, which costs VNĐ 7,000 to VNĐ 9,000 per ride.

The airport coach pilot program is planned to be implemented in three years. The program is part of the Hanoi People’s Committee plan for passenger services connecting Noi Bai International Airport and the city’s downtown area.

The plan, which has been approved by the Prime Minister, is one effort that the city is taking to meet increasing demand from travellers, reduce the use of private vehicles and curb traffic jams.

VNS