The contract signing ceremony was witnessed by Vietjet Chairwoman Nguyen Thi Phuong Thao and Airbus CEO of the Commercial Aircraft Business Christian Scherer on July 22 at the Farnborough International Airshow in the UK.

Speaking at the ceremony, Thao said that the newly-ordered aircraft would be deployed for Vietjet's growing long-haul services as well as on routes with high demand in the region. They are slated to replace Vietjet's current fleet of A330-300 and support the airline's strategic plan to expand its intercontinental flight network.

“The introduction of advanced, fuel-efficient A330neo aircraft into Vietjet's fleet is part of our sustainable development strategy and ESG goals, aiming for net-zero emissions by 2050. Passengers will soon enjoy safer, more comfortable, and modern long-haul flights," she said.

According to Thao, Airbus planes have enabled Vietjet to bring cost-effective flying opportunities to over 200 million passengers, including many first-time flyers, connecting peoples, nations, and continents, promoting economic development and cultural exchange.

Attending the signing ceremony, Executive Vice President Sales, Airbus Commercial Aircraft, Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, said that this was another vote of confidence in the latest generation Airbus widebody product line.

"It demonstrates the tremendous A330neo versatility for all types of business models and networks from domestic and regional to long haul routes," he said. "The award-winning Airspace cabin also enables airlines to provide the best flight experience for passengers, fully adaptable to each business model. This will be the perfect platform for Vietjet Air to fly more people, farther and at lower cost, while also reducing fuel consumption and carbon emissions.”

Statistics from the Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam showed that as of July, 2024, airlines in Vietnam owned a total of 195 aircraft, a decrease of 36 compared to the same period last year. The number of planes being used on average was 167, a fall of 51 compared to the same period in 2023.

Vietjet Air is currently operating 73 of its 85 aircraft while national flag carrier Vietnam Airlines running 82 of their 96 planes, Vietravel Airlines is operating three and Bamboo Airways eight.