Vietnam Airlines on Monday launched a new international air route connecting Hanoi to the old royal capital of Luang Prabang of neighboring Laos.

The national carrier operates four flights a week on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday using ATR72-500 aircraft, the airline said in a statement.

"The launch of this air route will help Vietnam to expand economic cooperation and tourism with Laos," it said.

The fare for a round trip is US$215 (€265). The airline already operates four flights a week between Hanoi and the Laotian capital of Vientiane.

Luang Prabang, situated in a stunning Mekong River valley deep in the hinterlands, has become a popular tourist destination in recent years.

Source: AP