Illustrative image (Photo: VNA)A memorandum of understanding for the deal was signed between the two sides on September11, on the occasion of PresidentJoe Biden’s State visit to Vietnam. It holds a special significance in the context that the two nations have elevated theirrelationship to a comprehensive strategic partnership.
Under the document, the two sides will closely collaborate to conduct research and assessment,and promptly report to relevant authorities for consideration, serving as a basis to advance the negotiations and complete investment procedures of VietnamAirlines.
According to Dang Ngoc Hoa, Chairmanof the Board of Directors of Vietnam Airlines, in its fleet expansion plan for the 2025-2030 period, with a visionto 2035, purchasing aircraft is crucial to ensure thatthe firm achieves its strategic goals and vision in the recovery and sustainabledevelopment phase.
The narrow-body aircraft investment projectaims to serve Vietnam Airlines' development plan, improve the quality of itsservices on domestic and Asian routes, and modernise its fleet by using modern,comfortable, and fuel-efficient aircraft.
At the signing ceremony (Photo: VNA) Brad McMullen, Senior Vice President Boeing Commercial Sales, said: “Southeast Asia is one of the world's fastest growingaviation markets, and the 737 MAX is the perfect airplane for Vietnam Airlinesto efficiently meet that regional demand.”
Boeing highly values its historicpartnership with Vietnam Airlines, dating back to 1995, when the airline firstleased Boeing 767s, he added.
VietnamAirlines said it needs to add about 60 new narrow-body aircraft by 2030 and 100 by 2035.
TheBoeing 737 Max series boasts a seating capacity of up to 230 passengers and hasa flight range of over 3,000 kilometres.
VietnamAirlines' fleet consists of 100 aircraft, including 65 narrow-body aircraft, servingover 97 routes to 50 domestic and international destinations./.
VNA
