Vietjet and Airbus signed a contract for the purchase of 20 new-generation wide-body A330neo (A330-900) aircraft, totalling US$7.4 billion at the manufacturer’s list price. The newly ordered aircraft will be deployed for Vietjet’s growing long-haul services as well as on routes with high demand in the region. They are slated to replace Vietjet’s current fleet of A330-300 and support the airline’s strategic plan to expand its intercontinental flight network.
Vietjet Chairwoman Dr. Nguyen Thi Phuong Thao said: “The new A330neo aircraft strategically enhance Vietjet’s fleet development, boosting the airline’s operational capacity to support its global expansion. The introduction of advanced, fuel-efficient A330neo aircraft into Vietjet’s fleet is part of our sustainable development strategy and ESG goals, aiming for Net-Zero emissions by 2050. Passengers will soon enjoy safer, more comfortable, and modern long-haul flights. Airbus planes have enabled Vietjet to bring cost-effective flying opportunities to over 200 million passengers, including many first-time flyers, connecting peoples, nations, and continents, promoting economic development and cultural exchange.”
“We are pleased to finalise this milestone order with one of Asia’s fastest growing carriers,” said Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, Executive Vice President Sales, Airbus Commercial Aircraft. “This is another vote of confidence in the latest generation Airbus widebody product line. It demonstrates the tremendous A330neo versatility for all types of business models and networks from domestic and regional to long haul routes. The award-winning Airspace cabin also enables airlines to provide the best flight experience for passengers, fully adaptable to each business model. This will be the perfect platform for Vietjet Air to fly more people, farther and at lower cost, while also reducing fuel consumption and carbon emissions.”
Drukair adds A320neo and A321XLRs
Drukair – Royal Bhutan Airlines, the national flag carrier of the Kingdom of Bhutan, a fully owned subsidiary of the state holding company Druk Holding and Investments Limited (DHI) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Airbus for 3 A320neo and 2 A321XLR aircraft to expand its international network.
The new aircraft are anticipated to start delivery in 2030. The airline plans to fly these aircraft out of Paro International Airport and the new airport at Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC), envisioned to become Bhutan’s futuristic economic hub. From here, Drukair will expand its connectivity to Europe, South East Asia and Australia. Drukair already operates four Airbus A320 Family aircraft consisting of three A319s and one A320.
Tandi Wangchuk, Drukair CEO, said, “We are thrilled to embark on this new chapter in Drukair’s history, which dovetails perfectly with development of the Gelephu Mindfulness City and work to expand the Gelephu airport. Our investment in these state-of-the-art aircraft underscores our dedication to supporting Bhutan’s vision of holistic and mindful development.”
Drukair is headquartered in Paro, Bhutan, and operates scheduled flights to 10 international destinations, including five countries in the South Asian region. Drukair also operates to three domestic destinations.
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