Vietnam Airlines Secures Funding for 50 New Narrowbody Jets

Vietnam Airlines has signed a memorandum of understanding with Vietcombank to finance its planned purchase of 50 new narrowbody aircraft, part of a long-term strategy to modernize and expand its fleet. The agreement was signed on April 23, 2025, by Vietnam Airlines CEO Le Hong Ha and Vietcombank CEO Le Quang Vinh. While the manufacturer was not disclosed, the airline has previously indicated interest in ordering Boeing 737 MAX aircraft.

The financing package will cover both aircraft payments and long-term loans spanning from 2026 to 2032. Vietnam Airlines said the investment will strengthen its short- and medium-haul network across key markets in Southeast Asia, Northeast Asia, and domestic routes where competition and demand are rising rapidly.

“This investment serves as a cornerstone of Vietnam Airlines’ long-term fleet strategy for 2025–2035, with a vision through 2040,” the airline said in a statement. Vietcombank, also majority state-owned, has financed aircraft purchases for Vietnam Airlines in the past.

Vietnam Airlines first proposed acquiring 50 narrowbody aircraft in 2018, and in 2023, during a state visit by U.S. President Joe Biden, the White House announced plans for the airline to order Boeing 737-8s. However, the deal remained pending as the carrier worked to secure financing.

In a separate agreement this month, the airline signed a USD560 million financing deal with Citibank S.A. and is exploring loan guarantees with the U.S. EXIM Bank. Any final aircraft order could also support Vietnam’s efforts to reduce its large trade surplus with the United States.

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Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, ch-aviation.com