Vietjet Advances with Historic Widebody Acquisition from Airbus
Vietjet Air, the rapidly expanding airline, has taken a significant leap forward with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Airbus. This agreement marks the purchase of 20 A330-900 widebodies, setting the stage for Vietjet's inaugural venture into widebody aircraft ownership. This move not only signifies a milestone in the airline's growth strategy but also paves the way for an enhanced long-range network and regional service capacity.
The integration of the A330neo into Vietjet's fleet represents a strategic move towards modernization and operational enhancement. According to Dinh Viet Phuong, Vietjet's Chief Executive Officer, this addition is key to supporting the airline's ambitious global expansion plans. The A330neo's state-of-the-art, fuel-efficient design is perfectly aligned with Vietjet's commitment to sustainability and its Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) objectives, aiming for net-zero emissions by 2050. Passengers can anticipate an upgrade in long-range travel experiences, with the promise of competitive fares, superior service, and enhanced onboard amenities.
Christian Scherer, CEO of Airbus' Commercial Aircraft division, expressed enthusiasm about collaborating with Vietjet on its next growth phase. The A330neo is expected to deliver unparalleled efficiency in operating costs per seat, allowing Vietjet to maintain its commitment to offering exceptional value. Furthermore, the A330neo will complement the A321XLRs previously ordered by Vietjet, facilitating the airline's expansion to more distant destinations.
The A330neo is renowned for its Airspace cabin, an award-winning design that redefines passenger comfort with increased personal space, larger overhead bins, advanced lighting systems, and access to the latest in-flight entertainment and connectivity. Powered by the latest generation Rolls-Royce Trent 7000 engines, the A330-900 boasts an impressive non-stop range of up to 7,200 nm (13,300 km). As of January 2024, the A330 Family has garnered 1,771 firm orders from over 130 customers globally, underscoring its widespread appeal and operational success.
Vietjet's forward-looking acquisition underscores the airline's readiness to elevate its service offerings and expand its global footprint, promising a brighter future for international travel enthusiasts and the aviation industry at large.