Vietjet Places Landmark Order for 100 Airbus A321neo Aircraft, Strengthening Its Position on Global Aviation Map
New Delhi: At a ceremony held at the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, witnessed by the UK Prime Minister’s Trade Envoy Matt Western and senior executives from both sides, Vietjet Air and Airbus officially signed a contract for the purchase of 100 A321neo aircraft, together with 50 additional purchase options.
The signing took place as Vietnam and the United Kingdom officially elevated their diplomatic relationship to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, marking a new chapter of collaboration in aviation, technology, investment, and sustainable development.
A Symbol of Strategic Cooperation and Global Ambition
“Commercial success reflects the values we hold in common: innovation, resilience and mutual respect. It also opens the door to even more deeper collaboration between the United Kingdom and Vietnam in the years ahead,” said Mr. Western at the signing ceremony. “This moment will enable Vietnam to continue its trajectory of economic growth while also supporting thousands of jobs in North Wales, Derby and throughout the UK aerospace supply chain.”
Mr. Christian Scherer, Chief Executive Officer of the Commercial Aircraft business of Airbus, remarked: “We are extremely proud and immensely respectful of Vietjet, who has consistently demonstrated ambition, courage, trust, and incredible professionalism. Today, as we’re signing a purchase order for 100 A321s, it reflects not only the airline’s bold vision but also the remarkable development of a nation that we are truly honoured to accompany.”
Vietnam’s Role in the Global Aviation Value Chain
The 100-aircraft A321neo deal represents one of the largest commercial contracts in the history of Vietnam–Europe cooperation. It will help boost bilateral trade, create high-value jobs across the UK and Europe, and strengthen Vietnam’s position in the global aviation industry.
This latest order extends Vietjet’s long-term strategic partnership with Airbus, bringing the airline’s total orders with the manufacturer to 376 aircrafts.
With one of the youngest and most fuel-efficient fleets in the region, Vietjet is among Asia’s fastest-growing airlines, leading in fleet modernization, green technologies, and innovative services. The carrier currently operates over 150 domestic and international routes, including an expanding network of direct flights connecting major Indian cities such as New Delhi, Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Kochi, Hyderabad, and Bengaluru to Vietnam.
For Airbus, whose operations span the UK, France, Germany, and Spain, the deal reinforces its role as a global leader in aerospace and a long-standing strategic partner of Vietjet for more than a decade.
Strategic Significance for Aviation, Economy, and Diplomacy
For the United Kingdom, the agreement brings economic benefits, as major components, wings, and engines for the A321neo are designed and manufactured domestically. This strengthens national investment, supports thousands of skilled jobs, and reinforces the UK’s position in the global aerospace value chain.
For Vietnam, the contract reflects its commitment to deep international integration, positioning the country as a dynamic regional aviation hub while advancing its national strategy for green and high-tech economic growth.
The selection of the A321neo, renowned for its fuel efficiency, lower CO₂ emissions, and compatibility with sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), underscores Vietjet’s commitment to green growth and its contribution to achieving Net Zero goals.