2 minute read - 26th February 2024
Order boost for Airbus and Rolls-Royce
Vietjet Air has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Airbus for the purchase of twenty A330-900 wide-body aircraft.
When finalised, this will be Vietjet’s first-ever wide-body order. The aircraft will be operated on the carrier’s growing long range network, as well as on high capacity regional services. They will replace the carrier’s current fleet of leased A330-300s, as well as providing network expansion. All wings on Airbus commercial aircraft are designed in the UK, with the majority built in North Wales.
Powered by the latest generation Rolls-Royce Trent 7000 engines, the A330-900 is capable of flying 7,200 nm / 13,300 km non-stop. At the end of January 2024, the A330 family had accumulated 1,771 firm orders from more than 130 customers worldwide.
Vietjet Air is to order 20 Airbus A330neo wide-body aircraft powered by Rolls-Royce Trent 7000 engines / Picture: Airbus
Dinh Viet Phuong, Vietjet’s chief executive officer, said: “The new A330neo aircraft is a strategic addition to comprehensively modernise Vietjet’s fleet, enhancing operational capabilities to support our global flight network expansion plan. Its fuel-efficient new-generation design aligns with our sustainable development strategy and ESG goals, aiming for net-zero emissions by 2050. With the introduction of the A330neo, passengers can look forward to longer-range, well-equipped flights with excellent services at more competitive fares.”
Christian Scherer, CEO of the commercial aircraft business at Airbus, said: “We are excited to work with Vietjet on the next phase of the carrier’s expansion. The A330neo will enable the airline to achieve the lowest possible operating costs per seat and to continue to offer its customers the best possible value wherever they fly. It will also be the perfect complement to the A321XLRs already on order with the airline, as it spreads its wings to more far flung destinations.”
Ewen McDonald, chief customer officer at Rolls-Royce Civil Aerospace, added: “Today’s commitment demonstrates Vietjet Air’s confidence in the power of the Trent 7000 to deliver significant sustainability gains alongside a reliable and consistent customer experience. We are proud to continue supporting Vietjet Air as they expand their operation responsibly and sustainably over the coming years.”
