Vietjet Air marked two key milestones in its ongoing collaboration with France during the state visit of Vietnam’s General Secretary and President To Lam. The airline celebrated the delivery of a new Airbus A321neo featuring a commemorative design for the 50th anniversary of Vietnam–France diplomatic relations, and signed a US$8 billion (approx. RM 34.31 billion) agreement with CFM International for more than 400 LEAP-1B engines.
Vietjet Receives Airbus Aircraft Marking 50 Years of Vietnam–France Ties
At Orly Airport in Paris, Vietjet welcomed the latest addition to its fleet - an Airbus A321neo featuring the symbol of the 45th anniversary of Vietnam-France diplomatic relations. The ceremony was attended by high-level representatives from both countries, including President To Lam, and French officials.
Vietjet Chairwoman 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 is part of Vietjet's broader effort to modernise its fleet and improve sustainability. The aircraft boasts fuel-efficient engines, reducing CO₂ emissions by over 20% and cutting noise by 50%, aligning with Vietjet's goals of reducing its environmental footprint. This delivery adds to the airline’s fleet of over 100 aircraft, enhancing its ability to connect Vietnam with international destinations across Asia and beyond, while providing employment opportunities and technology transfer in Vietnam. Up to now, Vietjet has ordered a total of 206 aircraft with Airbus.
Enhance partnership with CFM International through billion-dollar deal
Alongside the Airbus delivery, Vietjet signed an agreement with CFM International, a joint venture between Safran Aircraft Engines and GE Aerospace, for the supply of more than 400 LEAP-1B engines and technical engine services to power the airline’s narrow-body fleet. The deal, valued at over US$8 billion (approx. RM 34.31 billion), was signed at the Élysée Palace, witnessed by President To Lam and French President Emmanuel Macron.
This partnership reinforces Vietjet’s commitment to using cutting-edge technology to drive sustainable growth. The LEAP-1B engines, known for their efficiency, will reduce fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions by up to 20% compared to previous-generation engines. The engines are scheduled to power Vietjet’s expanding narrow-body fleet, with deliveries beginning in 2025.
“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,” said Gaël Méheust, President and CEO of CFM International. “We are deeply honoured 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.”
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Dr. Nguyen Thi Phuong Thao, Chairwoman of Vietjet, proudly shared: “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."
Vietjet's partnerships with Airbus and CFM International showcase its commitment to fleet modernisation and expansion, while playing a significant role in strengthening Vietnam–France relations. These collaborations are not only boosting job creation and economic growth in France, but also positioning Vietnam as a key aviation hub in Southeast Asia.
Beyond aircraft and engines, these partnerships extend to technical training, aircraft maintenance, and aviation services, supporting Vietjet's global expansion. These efforts drive sustainable development and enhance economic and cultural exchange between Vietnam, France, and the broader international community, further solidifying Vietjet’s role in the Vietnam–France strategic ties.
