PARIS- Vietnam Airlines (VN) has signed a memorandum of understanding with Airbus for five A350-900 wide-body aircraft, strengthening the carrier’s long-term fleet strategy and its partnership with the French aerospace manufacturer.
The agreement was exchanged in Paris in the presence of Vietnamese General Secretary and President To Lam and French President Emmanuel Macron.
The planned aircraft will support Vietnam Airlines’ efforts to expand its long-haul capabilities after 2030 as international travel demand continues to develop.
The memorandum provides a framework for both sides to evaluate and finalize the commercial and technical details before the airline proceeds with the required investment and procurement steps.
Five A350-900 Aircraft For Future Expansion
The agreement adds another stage to Vietnam Airlines’ plans for its future wide-body fleet.
The airline has identified the investment in 30 wide-body aircraft after 2030 as a major part of its fleet development strategy, with the aim of increasing capacity on medium and long-haul international routes.
The five Airbus A350-900 aircraft will also build on the carrier’s existing experience with the type. Vietnam Airlines currently operates 14 A350 aircraft and has used the aircraft extensively on long-haul international services.
The airline became the second carrier in the world to operate the A350-900 when it introduced the aircraft in 2015.
Its existing A350 fleet has helped Vietnam Airlines maintain a modern wide-body operation while supporting routes to major international markets.
Long-Haul Fleet Growth Plans for Future Expansion
Vietnam Airlines considers fleet stability an important factor as it prepares for future international expansion.
Adding wide-body aircraft requires lengthy planning because airlines must coordinate aircraft selection, financing, procurement, crew training, maintenance, and operational preparation.
The new memorandum therefore gives the carrier additional flexibility as it evaluates its future fleet requirements.
It also allows Vietnam Airlines and Airbus to continue discussions while the airline develops a broader plan for its post-2030 operations.
Vietnam Airlines has also continued to lease suitable aircraft to address immediate international capacity requirements. This approach allows the carrier to respond to current demand while preparing larger fleet investments for the longer term.
Airbus Partnership Continues With Stronger Fleet Cooperation
The agreement further strengthens the established relationship between Vietnam Airlines and Airbus.
The partnership covers aircraft operations, technical support, maintenance, and fleet development, giving the airline significant experience with Airbus aircraft.
Vietnam Airlines currently operates 81 Airbus-built aircraft, including 67 A320-family aircraft and 14 A350s.
The airline’s continued interest in the A350-900 also offers operational commonality across its existing wide-body fleet, which can support training, maintenance, and technical planning.
The A350 remains a major aircraft in Airbus’ long-haul portfolio. Airbus reported 733 A350 aircraft in service worldwide by the end of August 2026, highlighting the type’s established position in the global wide-body market, Vietnam VN reported.
For Vietnam Airlines, the five-aircraft agreement represents an important step in preparing its future international fleet.
The carrier and Airbus will now study the details needed to advance the proposed aircraft acquisition in line with applicable investment and procurement regulations.
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