HÀ NỘI — Vietcombank will provide finance for Vietnam Airlines' ambitious project to acquire 50 narrow-body aircraft, covering both pre-delivery payments and long-term loans spanning from 2026 to 2032.

A memorandum of understanding (MoU) formalising the cooperation was signed on Thursday in Hà Nội between Vietnam Airlines and Vietcombank.

The agreement marks a significant step in Vietnam Airlines’ ongoing fleet modernisation strategy and highlights the vital role of two leading State-owned enterprises in advancing key national infrastructure projects. The initiative supports Việt Nam’s broader goals of enhancing transport connectivity and fostering economic growth.

Under the MoU, Vietcombank will work closely with Vietnam Airlines to develop a tailored financial framework for the aircraft acquisition, leveraging its extensive experience in financing major transport infrastructure projects.

This collaboration aims to ensure the long-term financial sustainability and operational efficiency of the investment.

The purchase of 50 new narrow-body aircraft is a cornerstone of Vietnam Airlines’ fleet development plan for the 2025–35 period, with a vision extending to 2040. The expansion will strengthen the airline’s capacity to meet growing demand across domestic routes and short- to medium-haul markets in Southeast and Northeast Asia - regions where air travel demand is surging and competition remains intense.

The investment is also aligned with Vietnam Airlines’ commitment to enhancing operational efficiency, reducing fuel consumption and emissions, and supporting the airline’s long-term sustainable development strategy.

Expanding the narrow-body fleet will give Vietnam Airlines greater operational flexibility and enable the carrier to diversify its service offerings.

It also underscores the national flag carrier’s commitment to improving customer experience, boosting competitiveness, and reinforcing Việt Nam’s presence in the international aviation landscape.

As one of Việt Nam’s top commercial banks, Vietcombank has played a pivotal role in financing numerous large-scale national projects, including in the aviation sector. The bank brings deep expertise in structuring and managing large financial deals and has supported Vietnam Airlines in previous fleet expansion efforts over the past decade.

Their longstanding partnership has already yielded successful outcomes, including the acquisition of wide-body aircraft such as the Airbus A350 and Boeing 787, as well as the expansion of the airline’s Airbus A321 narrow-body fleet. The latest co-operation marks another milestone in the strategic alliance between the two organisations.

The collaboration between Vietcombank and Vietnam Airlines not only reflects the strength and readiness of State-owned enterprises to execute national development initiatives but also demonstrates their shared vision, professionalism, and leadership in shaping the country’s transportation future. — VNS