Vietjet commits USD 6.1 Bn to fleet and finances; leading APAC growth

The AAFH expected to facilitate approximately USD 50 billion in aviation transaction value by 2035.

Vietjet is positioning itself as a key driver in the Asia-Pacific aviation sector, unveiling a series of strategic initiatives at the Singapore Airshow 2026 designed to enhance its fleet and support regional aviation finance. These developments, totalling over USD6.1 billion in agreements, signal a significant commitment to scalability, efficiency, and meeting the rising travel demand across Vietnam, India, and the broader Asia-Pacific, presenting new prospects for the B2B travel sector.

A major announcement involves Vietjet’s role as a key partner in the newly launched Asia-Pacific Aviation Financial Hub (AAFH) by the Vietnam International Financial Centre in Ho Chi Minh City (VIFC-HCM). The AAFH is designed to support aviation finance, leasing, and infrastructure investment, with an expectation to handle approximately USD 50 billion in aviation transaction value by 2035. 

The airline is cornerstone of this initiative, leading over USD6.1 billion in early-stage aviation transactions. This includes an engine and maintenance service agreement with Pratt & Whitney and an aircraft financing agreement with Pacific Investment Management Company (PIMCO), a U.S.-based global asset management firm and other financing agreements.

The announcement was attended by global aircraft and engine manufacturers and financial institutions, including Airbus, Boeing, CFM International, Pratt & Whitney, Rolls-Royce and the International Air Transport Association (IATA).

Truong Minh Huy Vu, Chairman of VIFC-HCM, said: “The launch of the Asia-Pacific Aviation Financial Hub marks an important step in realising our vision of building VIFC into a modern, open, and trusted international financial platform. We attract investors not only through incentives, but through institutional quality, innovation capacity, and our ability to directly connect capital flows with the real economy.”

Paul Meijers, Executive Vice President of Airbus, said: “Airbus highly values the role of the Asia–Pacific Aviation Financial Hub in establishing an effective platform that connects the demand for next-generation fleet development with the global financial ecosystem. Participating as an Honorary Strategic Member reflects Airbus’ long-term commitment to advancing innovative financing solutions and supporting the sustainable growth of the aviation industry.”

With nearly 600 aircraft on order, Vietjet is expected to play a key role in driving early aviation finance transactions through the hub, helping establish foundational deal flow for regional aviation investment.

Vietjet Chairwoman Dr Nguyen Thi Phuong Thao said: “The Asia-Pacific Aviation Financial Hub marks a strategic milestone in reshaping how global capital supports the advancement of aviation and the broader economic landscape of Vietnam and the region. Vietjet is committed to leading high-impact transactions that help strengthen a forward-looking and sustainable aviation finance ecosystem to support future regional growth.”

Further solidifying its growth, Vietjet and Pratt & Whitney also announced an order for 44 additional GTF-powered Airbus A320neo family aircraft, including 24 A321neos and 20 A321XLRs, bringing the airline’s total orders to 137 GTF-powered aircraft. Deliveries start in July 2026, with Pratt & Whitney providing engine maintenance under a 12-year EngineWise Comprehensive service agreement.

Vietjet received its first A321neo aircraft in 2018 and currently operates a fleet of 42 GTF-powered A321neo aircraft. Prior to this order, Vietjet committed to up to 93 aircraft of this type. The GTF engine delivers up to 20% lower fuel consumption and a 75% smaller noise footprint compared with previous-generation engines.

The key announcements reinforce Vietjet’s long-term strategy to support growing connectivity between Vietnam and key Asia-Pacific markets, while contributing to broader regional economic development.