The National Airline of Lao PDR
Lao Airlines State Enterprise is the national airline of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic. The airlines is fully owned by the Ministry of Public Works and Transport (MPWT) and has its registered office at Wattay International Airport, Souphanouvong Avenue, P.O. Box 6441, Vientiane, Lao PDR.
Our History
A journey of growth, innovation, and connection since 1976.
1976 — Founded as the National Carrier
Founded in 1976 as the national carrier of the newly established Lao People's Democratic Republic, Lao Airlines was originally known as the Civil Aviation Company and was formed from the merger of existing airlines: Royal Air Lao and Lao Air Lines.
Late 1970s — Early Operations
The airline began with a mixed fleet of Douglas DC-3, DC-4, and helicopters, serving domestic and international routes while providing access to remote regions across Laos.
1980s — Fleet Modernization
The fleet transitioned to aircraft from China and the Soviet Union, including the Antonov An-24, supporting regional flights to Bangkok, Hanoi, and Phnom Penh.
1994–1999 — The ATR Era
Modernization continued with the introduction of the ATR42 in 1994, followed by the larger ATR72 in 1995 and a second ATR72 in 1999. The ATR72 became the backbone of the airline's domestic and regional operations.
Regional Connectivity
The Y-7 and Y-12 aircraft served remote destinations across Laos before being retired from the fleet.
Airbus A320 Era
The introduction of the Airbus A320 marked a new stage of growth, offering faster travel, greater comfort, Business Class, increased cargo capacity, and expanded international services.
Today
Lao Airlines operates scheduled flights to 10 international and 7 domestic destinations, along with charter services to China and South Korea. The airline also maintains interline and codeshare partnerships with 30+ airlines worldwide.
2024 — Network Expansion
New routes between Vientiane–Phnom Penh and Savannakhet–Bangkok strengthened the airline's regional network.
Looking Ahead
Future expansion plans include new destinations across ASEAN, Hong Kong, Taiwan, and Japan, as well as domestic service to Bokeo Province.