Vietnamese Talks Pave Way for Chinese Jets
A high-level meeting between Vietnam’s Deputy Prime Minister Tran Hong Ha and COMAC’s Deputy Secretary Tan Wangeng on January 15, 2025, has sparked fresh optimism about the future of Chinese-made aircraft in Vietnam. This significant development could bring COMAC’s flagship models, the C909 and C919, to Vietnamese skies and beyond, potentially transforming regional aviation dynamics.
The discussions between Vietnam’s top official and the Chinese state-backed aircraft manufacturer centered on the prospect of expanding the operational footprint of Chinese jets outside mainland China. With China Eastern Airlines recently inaugurating a daily service from Shanghai to Hong Kong using a COMAC C919, the dialogue indicates a clear ambition: to position COMAC as a formidable competitor against aviation giants Airbus and Boeing.
Vietnam’s government has expressed a proactive stance following the meeting. Authorities indicated plans to review and possibly remove longstanding regulatory barriers currently preventing COMAC aircraft from operating within the country. This regulatory reconsideration not only marks a tactical shift towards greater openness to Chinese technology but also highlights Vietnam’s strategic interest in diversifying its aviation partnerships.
Currently, COMAC-made aircraft have largely been confined to operations within China. The landmark landing of a C919 at Hong Kong International Airport signaled the beginning of its international journey. However, to successfully compete on the global stage, COMAC must secure certifications from major regulatory bodies, including those in the European Union and the United States. Obtaining these certifications would enable COMAC to tap into a broader market and challenge the existing Airbus-Boeing duopoly.
Despite the enthusiasm, there remain numerous hurdles for COMAC in penetrating markets that were previously inaccessible. Even in a rapidly developing aviation market like Vietnam, the process of certification and compliance with local aviation regulations poses significant challenges. Nevertheless, the government’s willingness to revisit and revise current regulatory frameworks reflects a commitment to fostering innovation and enhancing connectivity in the region.
During the meeting, VietJet emerged as a pivotal potential partner in the testing and integration of COMAC’s aircraft. Local reports confirmed that in December 2024, VietJet signed a lease contract for two C909 aircraft, slated to begin operations in 2025. This deal not only reinforces VietJet’s reputation as a forward-thinking, dynamic airline but also positions it as a critical player in bridging the operational gap for COMAC in Vietnam. The partnership with VietJet is likely to serve as a pilot program, offering valuable insights into the practicality and performance of Chinese-made jets in a Southeast Asian context.
In addition to Vietnam, COMAC is actively pursuing strategic ties with airlines from Indonesia, Cambodia, and Kazakhstan. With discussions reportedly ongoing with major carriers such as Garuda Indonesia—which has a substantial appetite for up to 70 new single-aisle aircraft—the potential for rapid expansion is evident. Success in these markets could further cement COMAC’s status as a reliable alternative to the established Western manufacturers.
This meeting and the discussions that ensued highlight a pivotal moment in the regional aviation industry. As regulatory barriers begin to fall and new partnerships are forged, the arrival of COMAC aircraft in Vietnam could signal the start of a broader trend towards diversification and modernization in Southeast Asia’s aviation sector. The upcoming years will be critical as COMAC navigates regulatory challenges, seeks international certifications, and expands its global presence, potentially reshaping the dynamics of the aviation market worldwide.
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