The partnership between Airbus and Vietnam dates back almost 30 years, to when Airbus aircraft became the first Western types to be operated in the country. Since then Airbus aircraft have played an important role in the growth of the country’s air transport industry.
In addition a wide range of Airbus helicopters are in service in the country, as well as the C295 military transport. Airbus has also provided a satellite to the country, known as VNREDSAT.
Commercial Aircraft
There are currently some 220 Airbus aircraft in service with X airlines in Vietnam. These include flag carrier Vietnam Airlines, which currently flies aircraft from the A320 Family, the A330 and the all-new long range A350. In addition fast-growing LCC Vietjet currently flies an all-Airbus fleet of A320 Family aircraft and recently also began operating the A330.
Other Airbus operators in the country include Bamboo Airways and Pacific Airlines, both flying A320 Family aircraft.
Helicopters
There are 12 Airbus helicopters flying in Vietnam today on missions including support of the oil and gas sector, VIP transportation, as well as search and rescue for operators including VNH South, which has since become one of the leading helicopter service providers in Southeast Asia.
Defence
In 2014 the highly versatile C295 joined the fleet of the Vietnamese Air Force. Today there are three aircraft in service in the country deployed on transport roles.
Vietnam’s Ministry of National Defence also operates three C212 light turboprop aircraft on transport and medical evacuation missions.
Space
Airbus developed, manufactured and launched VNREDSat-1, Vietnam’s first Earth observation satellite, which was launched into orbit in 2013 and marked the full autonomous entry into space for the country. The system provides Vietnam with high-resolution imagery to protect its sovereignty, serve social and economic development purposes, as well as offer environmental protection and natural disaster monitoring.
Industrial Partnerships
Airbus also is growing its industrial footprint in Vietnam. Existing partnerships in aircraft parts manufacturing include Artus (Meggitt) Vietnam in Ho Chi Minh City and Nikkiso Vietnam in Hanoi. Airbus continues to explore opportunities to place more work packages in Vietnam.
In addition, Airbus is also active in optimising airline operations in Vietnam, with providing expertise in airspace management, as well as deepening partnerships in talent development through pilot training organisations and tertiary education programmes.
News from the region
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