Socialist Republic of Vietnam

Sai Gon Times Weekly, 12/4/2004

A short interview with Mr. Joe Mannix, United Airlines country manager, Vietnam

Do you think the competition over Vietnam-US flights will be fierce? What will United Airlines do to ensure its own success?

Competitiveness is integral to any business and the airline industry is no exception. Airlines today have a wide variety of offerings including schedules, aircraft type, in-flight service, entertainment systems, seating configurations, mileage programs, and of course, price. I think the competitiveness of the Vietnam-U.S. route will be very comparable to what is being experienced between airlines on various routes throughout the world. It is beneficial for customers as they have more choices to fit their personal needs and usually at very attractive prices.

United, with a 75 year history, is very proud to have the opportunity to offer this service to Vietnam as the first American airline to do so in 30 years. In the course of its history, United has introduced many innovations to the airline industry. These innovations revolve around providing our customers the best service we can. We also work diligently to find ways to improve from where we are today so that we can remain competitive and an attractive choice. We think that as the Vietnamese community gets to know us they will find our service acceptable and we hope they will choose to fly with us often in the years to come.

United Airlines is offering a very competitive airfare on the Vietnam-U.S. flight. When will this special fare end?

Since we are new to the Vietnam market we offered an attractive introductory fare that will remain available for sale until December 10.

Passengers are concerned about the complicated inspection on flights to the U.S. How about flights of United Airlines? What can you do to make passengers feel more comfortable?

We clearly understand that security procedures have become more stringent. This is not only for flights to the U.S. but other countries, too, as governments worldwide find it necessary to deal with the realities of today. United supports these procedures wholeheartedly wherever we fly because it makes the aviation industry safer for all of us, including our customers. In terms of comfort we encourage our passengers to fly and experience the situation themselves. I have talked to many passengers who have found that the perception of more complications in flying are just that, perceptions, and the reality is that the procedures may be a little more time consuming but not difficult at all. United also continues to work with our government to identify ways we can improve the overall system and still maintain the high levels of security that everyone ultimately wants and deserves.