Airports Authority Responds Following Public Uproar Over $7.90 Sandwich
**Article Title: The Controversial $7.90 Grilled Pork Sandwich at Noi Bai International Airport**
Noi Bai International Airport, Hanoi, is home to the BigBowl restaurant in Terminal T2, which offers a Grilled Pork Sandwich (bánh mì) priced at VNĐ208,000, approximately US$7.90–$7.96. The sandwich, marketed as a high-end product using imported Brazilian pork, is sold within the secure (airside) area of the international terminal.
The sandwich's price has sparked controversy, particularly among locals, due to its perceived high cost. While the typical street price for a bánh mì in Vietnam is only a few dollars, the Noi Bai sandwich is within the typical price range for a gourmet or specialty sandwich at major international airports, though it is significantly pricier than local alternatives.
The controversy over the sandwich's price began with a social media post, and some travellers have expressed shock at the high prices of food and drink in the international zones, especially when compared to average market rates.
Despite the controversy, it's important to note that the sandwich's price is publicly displayed as required by law. Airport authorities are committed to ensuring product quality and traceability for all food and beverage items, and the restaurant, BigBowl, is a nationwide food chain.
The sandwich, which contains 200 grams of Brazilian-imported pork, is sold as a combo including a sandwich and a bottle of Dasani water or soft drink. The restaurant is located on the third floor of Terminal T2, which houses 24 food and beverage vendors in total.
While the Noi Bai sandwich is priced similarly to gourmet sandwiches at other major international airports, it is still seen as expensive by local Vietnamese standards. Traveller Nguyễn Ngọc Trà My described the pork sandwich in question as 'ordinary' and considered the price higher than what she had paid at many international airports abroad.
In response to concerns, the Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam (CAAV) has directed Noi Bai Airport and relevant agencies to review all non-aviation services within the terminal, ensuring vendors follow rules on pricing transparency and service quality. This move aims to ensure fair pricing and maintain a positive travel experience for passengers at Noi Bai International Airport.
- The pricing controversy surrounding the Grilled Pork Sandwich at Noi Bai International Airport is not limited to just the sandwich, as some travelers have noticed the high prices of food and drink within the secure areas, particularly when compared to local market rates.
- In the business world, the implementation of AI technology could potentially provide solutions for establishing fair pricing practices, ensuring that prices align with market standards and consumer expectations.
- The law stipulates that all prices for products and services offered at Noi Bai International Airport must be clearly displayed, maintaining transparency and accountability to uphold a positive lifestyle experience for passengers within the airport.
