Vietjet has signed a comprehensive strategic partnership agreement with Safran, an international France-based high-technology group during the official visit of Viet Nam’s high-ranking government delegation to France.

The signing ceremony on Wednesday was witnessed by Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, French Prime Minister Jean Castex and high-ranking dignitaries of the two countries.

The agreement is founded on the two parties’ existing US$10 billion cooperation.

Building on both sides’ existing cooperation in aircraft engine and engine services through CFM International - a joint-company between GE Aviation and Safran Aircraft Engines, Vietjet and Safran will extend their cooperation to a long-term strategic partnership to cover more aircraft engine deals and a variety of other aspects such as aircraft seats and interiors supply.

In addition, Safran will provide Vietjet with training programmes including management and technical training whilst also supporting the airline to establish MRO (maintenance, repair, and overhaul) capabilities in Viet Nam. Vietjet and Safran Electronics & Defense will accelerate co-operation to enable Vietjet to achieve best-in-class Flight Data Analysis solution for its whole airline fleet.

"This agreement reflects the relationship of mutual trust between the airline and Safran and their recognition of our expertise and experience," Alexandre Ziegler, Safran Senior Executive Vice President, International and Public Affairs, said.

Vietjet currently operates a fleet of 90 aircraft. With a comprehensive network in Viet Nam and Asia Pacific, the airline looks to further expand across continents thanks to its new and modern fleet in the near future.

Safran is an international high-technology group, operating in the aviation (propulsion, equipment, and interiors), defense and space markets. Safran has a global presence, with 76,000 employees and sales of 16.5 billion euros. — VNS