Vietnam Airlines finalizes order for 50 Boeing 737 MAX airplanes

Boeing and Vietnam Airlines announced the Vietnamese flag carrier has finalized its order for 50 Boeing 737 MAX airplanes, becoming the first airline to acquire Boeing single-aisle aircraft as part of its fleet modernization effort. The addition of the 737-8 is expected to boost domestic and regional capacity as air travel demand continues to rise across Southeast Asia.   

“Vietnam Airlines is taking a comprehensive and forward-looking approach to strengthening its capabilities, spanning fleet modernization, financial resilience and the development of high-quality talent, to support our long-term growth ambitions,” said Dang Ngoc Hoa, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Vietnam Airlines.

“The investment in 50 Boeing 737-8 aircraft marks a significant step in building a modern, fuel-efficient fleet while enhancing operational performance and elevating service standards to meet international benchmarks,” said Hoa. “This agreement also deepens the long-standing strategic partnership between Vietnam Airlines and Boeing, creating a strong foundation for our ambition to become a five-star international airline by 2030.”

Vietnam Airlines will be able to improve capacity by introducing the 737-8, as the country’s air traffic is expected to double to more than 75 million annual passengers over the next 10 years, as per the statement. The 737-8 can carry up to 200 passengers depending on configuration with a range of up to 3,500 nautical miles (6,480 km) for the airline’s short- and medium-haul network expansion.

“We are proud to build on our partnership with Vietnam Airlines and support them as they pair the 737 MAX with the 787 Dreamliner to further scale regional networks and strengthen connectivity across Asia,” said Stephanie Pope, President and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes. “The 737‑8’s capabilities, economics and passenger experience make it an ideal airplane to support Vietnam Airlines’ growth plans.”