Vietnam to operate double fleet

Vietnam Airlines has signed a MoU with both Airbus and Boeing to acquire both the A350 XWB and (additional) B787 aircraft. Moving away from fleet commodity, I’m guessing they are planning on utilizing delivery slots to fit in with future growth – finely tuned by the varying size and range differences between both aircraft.

Vietnam Airlines to acquire 10 A350 XWB and 20 additional A321 aircraft
1 October 2007

Vietnam Airlines has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for 10 A350-900 XWBs, as well as for 20 additional A321s. With this further commitment for Airbus aircraft, Vietnam Airlines becomes a strategic customer for the A350 XWB programme. Furthermore, with this commitment for the A350 and for additional A321s, Vietnam Airlines will become one of the largest Airbus operators in Asia.

Vietnam Airlines currently operates a fleet of 23 Airbus aircraft, including 10 A320s, 10 A321s and three A330s (two -200s and one -300). Five previously ordered A321s are still to be delivered.

“We thoroughly reviewed the A350 XWB programme, and we are very confident that this aircraft will set new standards of passenger comfort, operating economics and low emissions in our growing long-haul markets. The size of the A350-900 XWB responds very well to our expected traffic growth over the next decade,” said Mr Nguyen Sy Hung, Chairman and CEO of Vietnam Airlines. “Our A330s already provide us with an excellent level of economics combined with superior passenger appeal. The A350 XWB will further consolidate our successful growth and long term development into the future.”

“We are very proud to have one of the most successful and well respected airline like Vietnam Airlines to confirm its choice for the A350 XWB”, said Thomas Enders, Airbus Chief Executive Officer. “We are very grateful for this strong endorsement of the A350 XWB programme, and together with the additional A321s, we are also pleased to be playing a major role in Vietnam Airlines’ continued expansion of its regional network. We are delighted with our long-standing partnership with Vietnam Airlines, and look forward to continuing this relationship into the future.”

http://www.airbus.com/en/presscentre/pressreleases/pressreleases_items/07_10_01_a350xwb_a321_vietnam_airlines.html

Boeing Statement on Vietnam Airlines Memorandum of Understanding

SEATTLE, Oct. 01, 2007 — The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] is gratified that Vietnam Airlines has indicated its plan to move forward with additional Boeing 787 Dreamliner procurements.

Vietnam Airlines was the seventh airline to commit to the 787 and currently has four 787-8s on order with Boeing. The 787 provides an outstanding complement to the current Vietnam Airlines fleet of 10 Boeing 777-200ERs. The 787 will provide superior fuel efficiency, as well as reduced emissions and noise, while providing an enhanced cabin experience for passengers.

Boeing looks forward to working with Vietnam Airlines in reaching a finalized agreement.

http://www.boeing.com/news/releases/2007/q4/071001a_nr.html