Vietjet Air continues its robust expansion with two major milestones, including the agreement with CFM for more than 400 LEAP-1B engines and the delivery of a new Airbus A321neo. Both developments signal the airline’s commitment to modernising its fleet and enhancing its operational efficiency towards sustainable aviation.
Vietjet strengthens partnership with CFM in LEAP-1B deal
Vietjet’s partnership with CFM International, joint venture between Safran Aircraft Engines and GE Aerospace, have reaffirmed the commitment for the supply of more than 400 LEAP-1B engines and engine technical services, with estimated value at US$8 billion (approx.. AUD 11.9 billion), to power the airline’s narrow-body fleet. The agreement was signed in the presence of Vietnam’s President To Lam and French President Emmanuel Macron at the Élysée Palace on 7 October.
The engines are from two orders previously announced in 2016 and 2018 and the aircraft are scheduled to begin delivery in 2025.
The CFM LEAP engine family delivers 15 to 20 percent lower fuel consumption and CO2 emissions, as well as a significant improvement in noise, compared to previous generation engines.
Gaël Méheust, President and CEO of CFM International, remarked: “For more than a decade, we have worked closely with VietJet Air to introduce support programs in terms of technical management, training, and fuel efficiency improvements for its CFM56 fleet and look forward to now extending these practices to the new LEAP-1B engines. We are deeply honored by the high level of confidence Vietjet has shown in CFM and we welcome this opportunity to further strengthen this year’s special relationship well into the future.”
Vietjet Chairwoman Dr. Nguyen Thi Phuong Thao added: “We deeply value and are honoured by this strategic partnership. World-leading engine manufacturers like Safran and CFM have worked alongside Vietjet to provide affordable air travel for millions of people, driving growth in the dynamic Asia-Pacific aviation market, including Vietnam. Today’s agreement for fuel-efficient engines reinforces our commitment to sustainability. Our passengers will enjoy even greener, more efficient flights.”
As long-term strategic partners, the collaboration with Safran/ CFM so far extends beyond engines to include aircraft seats, cabin interiors, and engine management training. It also creates opportunities for high-tech maintenance facilities and training centers in Vietnam, reinforcing the country’s position as a regional aviation hub.
Vietjet welcomes new Airbus A321neo with a symbol celebrating 50 years of Vietnam–France diplomatic relations
At Orly Airport in Paris on 7 October, Vietjet celebrated the arrival of the latest addition to its fleet – an Airbus A321neo – at a ceremony attended by high-level representatives from Vietnam and France. This new aircraft is part of Vietjet’s broader effort to expand its fleet and improve sustainability through fuel-efficient technology.
Vietjet Chairwoman Dr. Nguyen Thi Phuong Thao said: “Vietjet aircraft showcasing the symbol of 50 years of Vietnam–France diplomatic relations marks a milestone in the development of economic, cultural, and trade cooperation between the two nations, spreading the shared values between their people and international friends. We are pleased that the cooperation between Vietjet and French partners has yielded positive results, forming a solid foundation for the Vietnam–France strategic partnership. Today’s event is especially meaningful as it celebrates the success of the 19th Francophonie Summit, with the participation of leaders from nearly 100 member countries.”
Speaking at the event, Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, Airbus Executive Vice President Sales for Commercial Aircraft business, said: “Today’s event marks another milestone in Airbus’ long-standing partnership with Vietjet and Vietnam industry aviation. The delivery of another A321neo is a key step in Vietjet’s ambitious fleet expansion, alongside its recent firm order for 20 A330neo at the Farnborough Airshow. We are proud and look forward to continued collaboration and success with Vietjet in many years to come.”
The A321neo’s fuel-efficient design significantly brings a 50% noise reduction and more than 20% fuel savings and CO₂ reduction compared to previous generation single-aisle aircraft, aligning with Vietjet’s sustainability goals. With over 100 aircraft in its fleet, the airline continues to expand its international routes across Asia and beyond, contributing to job creation and technology transfer in Vietnam. Up to now, Vietjet has ordered a total of 206 aircraft with Airbus.
Following the delivery of the new aircraft, Airbus will continue to deliver more new aircraft from now until the end of 2024 to Vietjet, well serving the airline’s flight network expansion plan. The airline has recently announced a series of new services and frequency increase for popular destinations across Asia, including Kuala Lumpur, Tainan, Nagoya, Hiroshima, Busan, Daegu, Bali, Seam Reap, Vientiane, etc.
In Australia, Vietjet offers over 40 flights per week from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Perth to Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.
