Aircraft Orders & Deliveries
Vietjet Orders 20 Airbus A330neo Jets to Expand Long-Haul Routes
Vietjet invests $5.9B in 20 Airbus A330-900 aircraft, doubling its widebody fleet for European expansion and sustainable aviation growth.
In a strategic move to expand its international footprint, Vietjet, Vietnam’s largest private airline, has placed a firm order for 20 additional Airbus A330-900 aircraft. This decision, announced in May 2025, marks a significant step in the airline’s long-term development plan, focusing on medium- and long-haul operations. The announcement was made in Hanoi during a high-profile event attended by French President Emmanuel Macron and Vietnamese President Luong Cuong, underlining the geopolitical and economic importance of the deal.
This latest acquisition brings Vietjet’s total commitment to the A330neo family to 40 aircraft. With a current fleet consisting predominantly of narrowbody Airbus A320 Family aircraft, the addition of more widebody jets signals a shift in the airline’s operational strategy. It positions Vietjet to compete more aggressively in the international market, particularly on high-capacity and long-haul routes where comfort, efficiency, and range are critical factors.
As travel demand rebounds in the Asia-Pacific region following the COVID-19 pandemic, Vietjet’s investment in widebody aircraft reflects both confidence in market recovery and a desire to capitalize on emerging opportunities. The airline’s expansion aligns with broader industry trends toward fleet modernization and sustainability.
Vietjet’s current international services, including routes to Australia, India, and Kazakhstan, are primarily operated using its existing fleet of A330-300s. With the introduction of the more advanced A330-900, the airline aims to expand its reach further into Europe and beyond. The aircraft’s range of 7,200 nautical miles (13,334 kilometers) enables non-stop flights to distant destinations, opening new possibilities for route development.
The A330-900 is equipped with Rolls-Royce Trent 7000 engines and features Airbus’ Airspace cabin, offering enhanced passenger comfort, increased space, and advanced in-flight entertainment systems. These features are especially important for long-haul flights, where passenger experience plays a pivotal role in airline selection.
By increasing its widebody fleet, Vietjet is not only enhancing its operational flexibility but also positioning itself to serve high-demand routes with greater efficiency. This move is expected to strengthen the airline’s competitive edge against regional rivals and full-service carriers such as Vietnam Airlines.
“Modern Airbus aircraft, with the latest levels of efficiency and lower fuel consumption, have accompanied Vietjet’s growth and will continue to support our global flight network expansion., Nguyen Thi Phuong Thao, Chairwoman of Vietjet
The A330neo offers up to 25% lower fuel consumption compared to previous generation aircraft, making it a strategic asset for airlines seeking to reduce operating costs and environmental impact. This aligns with Vietjet’s sustainability goals and the broader aviation industry’s push toward decarbonization.
Airbus has designed the A330neo to be compatible with up to 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), with a goal of achieving 100% SAF capability by 2030. This future-proofing makes the aircraft a viable long-term investment for airlines navigating increasingly strict environmental regulations. As part of the International Air Transport Association’s (IATA) commitment to net-zero emissions by 2050, airlines are under pressure to modernize fleets. Vietjet’s decision to double its A330neo orders demonstrates a proactive approach to meeting these evolving standards.
The list price of an Airbus A330-900 is approximately $296 million USD. While actual purchase prices are typically negotiated below list value, the total list price of Vietjet’s 20-aircraft order would amount to roughly $5.9 billion USD. This significant investment underlines the airline’s long-term confidence in market growth and its own financial health.
Vietnam’s aviation market is expected to be one of the fastest-growing globally, driven by a young population, a rising middle class, and increasing tourism. Vietjet’s expansion is a calculated move to capture a larger share of this growth, especially in the international segment where yields are typically higher.
Industry analysts view the move as part of a broader trend among Southeast Asian low-cost carriers (LCCs) transitioning into long-haul markets. This strategic shift blurs the lines between LCCs and full-service carriers, intensifying competition and reshaping the regional aviation landscape.
The global aviation industry is in a recovery phase, with Asia-Pacific leading the rebound in passenger traffic. Vietjet’s fleet expansion is well-timed to meet rising demand, particularly as international travel restrictions ease and tourism resumes.
Airlines that can quickly scale up operations with efficient, modern aircraft are better positioned to capture market share during this recovery. Vietjet’s A330neo order enhances its ability to do just that, especially on routes where capacity and fuel efficiency are critical.
With competitors like Vietnam Airlines and international players eyeing the same markets, Vietjet’s move can be seen as both defensive and offensive—defending its market share while aggressively pursuing new opportunities.
The Airspace cabin in the A330neo is a key differentiator. It offers larger overhead bins, customizable lighting, and improved air quality—all contributing to a better passenger experience. These enhancements are crucial in attracting premium travelers and business class customers, segments that are increasingly important for profitability on long-haul routes. Moreover, the aircraft’s advanced connectivity systems support inflight Wi-Fi and entertainment, meeting modern travelers’ expectations. Vietjet’s ability to offer a competitive onboard product could help it secure a loyal customer base in new markets.
As customer expectations evolve, especially post-pandemic, airlines that prioritize comfort, safety, and digital services will likely gain a competitive edge. Vietjet’s investment in the A330neo reflects an understanding of these shifting dynamics.
Globally, the A330neo competes with Boeing’s 787 Dreamliner. Both aircraft offer similar advantages in terms of fuel efficiency and range. However, Airbus has seen strong demand for the A330neo, particularly among carriers seeking a lower-cost alternative within the widebody segment.
Vietjet’s decision to deepen its partnership with Airbus may also reflect strategic alignment in terms of fleet commonality, maintenance, and pilot training. Operating an all-Airbus fleet simplifies logistics and reduces operational complexity.
As the airline industry continues to evolve, Vietjet’s aggressive fleet strategy could serve as a case study in how low-cost carriers can successfully scale into long-haul operations without compromising their core value proposition.
Vietjet’s order of 20 additional Airbus A330-900 aircraft marks a pivotal moment in the airline’s evolution. It signifies a strategic shift toward long-haul expansion, driven by market growth, technological advancement, and a commitment to sustainability. With this move, Vietjet is poised to become a more formidable player in the international aviation arena.
As the global aviation industry navigates a path toward recovery and decarbonization, Vietjet’s investment in modern, fuel-efficient aircraft places it on solid footing. The coming years will reveal how effectively the airline can leverage its expanded fleet to capture new markets and redefine its role in the competitive landscape.
What is the Airbus A330neo? Why did Vietjet order more A330neo aircraft? How many A330neo aircraft has Vietjet ordered in total? What destinations will Vietjet serve with the A330neo? How does the A330neo support sustainability goals?
Vietjet Doubles Down on Long-Haul Ambitions with 20 More Airbus A330neo Orders
Expanding Horizons: Vietjet’s Strategic Growth Plan
Building a Long-Haul Network
Aligning with Sustainability and Efficiency Goals
Financial and Market Considerations
Industry Implications and Competitive Dynamics
Competing in a Post-Pandemic Landscape
Technology and Passenger Experience
Global Trends and Vietjet’s Positioning
Conclusion
FAQ
The Airbus A330neo is a widebody aircraft designed for medium- to long-haul flights. It features improved fuel efficiency, longer range, and enhanced passenger comfort compared to its predecessors.
Vietjet aims to expand its international network and enter long-haul markets. The A330neo supports these goals with its long range, efficiency, and modern cabin features.
With the latest order of 20 aircraft, Vietjet now has a total of 40 A330neo aircraft on order.
While specific routes have not been disclosed, the aircraft will likely be used for high-capacity routes across Asia-Pacific and new long-haul services to Europe and potentially Australia.
The A330neo offers up to 25% better fuel efficiency than previous generation aircraft, aligning with global decarbonization targets.
Sources
Photo Credit: Airbus
Aircraft Orders & Deliveries
China Airlines Orders Five Additional Airbus A350-1000 Aircraft
China Airlines adds five Airbus A350-1000s to its fleet, enhancing capacity on transpacific and European routes with deliveries from 2026.
This article is based on an official press release from Airbus and additional industry data regarding fleet modernization.
China Airlines (CAL) has officially signed a firm orders for five additional Airbus A350-1000 aircraft, signaling a continued commitment to modernizing its long-haul operations. Announced on December 18, 2025, this agreement increases the Taiwan-based carrier’s total backlog for the A350-1000 variant to 15 aircraft. The move is part of a broader strategy to replace aging widebody jets and enhance capacity on high-density routes connecting Asia with North America and Europe.
According to the official statement released by Airbus, these new aircraft will join the airline’s existing fleet of 15 A350-900s. The decision to expand the A350-1000 order book underscores the operator’s reliance on the A350 family’s commonality, which allows for streamlined pilot training and maintenance procedures. Deliveries for the newly ordered jets are scheduled to commence in 2026 and continue through 2029.
The deal also highlights the competitive landscape of widebody aviation in the Asia-Pacific region. By securing these additional units, China Airlines aims to deploy its flagship product on slot-constrained routes where maximizing passenger count per movement is critical. The aircraft will be powered by Rolls-Royce Trent XWB-97 engines, known for their efficiency in long-range operations.
China Airlines plans to utilize the A350-1000 primarily for its most prestigious long-haul markets. Industry reports indicate that the aircraft will be deployed on key transpacific routes to New York (JFK), Los Angeles (LAX), Seattle (SEA), and Ontario, California (ONT), as well as European hubs like London Heathrow (LHR). The A350-1000 offers significantly higher capacity than the -900 variant, making it a strategic asset for airports with limited landing slots.
Coinciding with these deliveries, the airline is preparing to unveil a major upgrade to its onboard product. Sources familiar with the carrier’s fleet planning suggest a new cabin design will debut in 2027. This retrofit is expected to feature business class suites with closing doors, 4K entertainment screens, and wireless charging capabilities, aiming to rival premium competitors such as Singapore Airlines and Cathay Pacific.
The interior aesthetic will likely continue the carrier’s “Oriental aesthetics” theme, utilizing persimmon wood-grain finishes and mood lighting to evoke a boutique hotel atmosphere. While the current A350-900 seats 306 passengers, the larger -1000 variant is projected to accommodate between 350 and 400 passengers, providing a substantial boost in premium economy and economy seat inventory.
Both China Airlines and Airbus executives emphasized the efficiency and passenger comfort benefits of the A350-1000. In the official press release, Kao Shing-Hwang, Chairman of China Airlines, noted the alignment of this order with the carrier’s sustainability and service goals. “Expanding our A350-1000 fleet marks another important step in our long-term growth strategy. The A350’s exceptional efficiency and passenger comfort align with our goals to modernize our fleet, enhance long-haul competitiveness, and deliver an elevated travel experience to our customers.”
Kao Shing-Hwang, Chairman of China Airlines
Benoit de Saint-Exupéry, Airbus EVP Sales, added that the repeat order validates the aircraft’s performance in the heavy widebody segment.
“This follow-on order is a strong vote of confidence in the A350-1000 as the right aircraft for China Airlines’ future network ambitions. Its next-generation efficiency, range, and cabin comfort brings even greater value to the airline and its passengers.”
Benoit de Saint-Exupéry, Airbus Sales
This order reinforces a “split fleet” procurement strategy that has become increasingly common among major global carriers. While China Airlines has committed to the Boeing 777X for specific high-volume trunk routes and the 787 Dreamliner for regional replacement, the expansion of the A350-1000 fleet secures Airbus’s position as the backbone of the airline’s medium-to-large widebody operations.
From a financial perspective, based on 2025 list prices of approximately $366.5 million per unit, the deal holds a theoretical face value of roughly $1.83 billion, though actual acquisition costs are typically 40-50% lower after standard industry discounts. Environmentally, the shift is significant; the A350-1000 offers a 25% reduction in fuel burn compared to the previous generation aircraft it replaces, such as the Boeing 747-400 freighters and older passenger jets. This efficiency gain is a critical component of the airline’s roadmap to achieving Net Zero carbon emissions by 2050.
China Airlines Bolsters Long-Haul Capacity with Additional A350-1000 Order
Strategic Deployment and Cabin Innovation
Next-Generation Passenger Experience
Executive Commentary
AirPro News Analysis
Sources
Photo Credit: Airbus
Aircraft Orders & Deliveries
Natilus Launches India Subsidiary and Secures SpiceJet Aircraft Order
Natilus expands into India with a Mumbai subsidiary and a 100-aircraft order from SpiceJet for its Horizon blended-wing body plane.
This article is based on an official press release from Natilus.
Natilus, a U.S.-based aerospace manufacturers specializing in Blended-Wing Body (BWB) Commercial-Aircraft, has officially announced its expansion into the Indian aviation market. According to the company’s press release, the move includes the debut of a new subsidiary, Natilus India, headquartered in Mumbai. This strategic expansion is designed to address the growing demand in one of the world’s fastest-developing aviation sectors.
Coinciding with the launch of the new subsidiary, Natilus announced a significant commercial agreement with Indian low-cost carrier SpiceJet. The Airlines has committed to purchasing 100 units of Natilus’s “Horizon” passenger aircraft. The company noted that this transaction is subject to the successful Certification of the aircraft, which is currently in the development phase.
The establishment of Natilus India represents a direct effort to localize operations within a key global market. In its announcement, Natilus confirmed the appointment of Ravi Bhatia as the Regional Director for the new subsidiary. Bhatia’s role will focus on overseeing in-country operations, managing regulatory engagement with Indian aviation authorities, and fostering industrial Partnerships.
The company stated that this move aligns with India’s “Make in India” initiative. By establishing a physical presence in Mumbai, Natilus aims to source components and engineering services locally, integrating Indian manufacturing capabilities into its global Supply-Chain.
The purchase order from SpiceJet marks a pivotal moment for the “Horizon” program. If completed, this deal would position SpiceJet as an early adopter of BWB technology in the region. The “Horizon” is Natilus’s flagship passenger model, designed to seat between 200 and 240 passengers.
According to performance data released by Natilus, the aircraft is engineered to replace traditional narrowbody fleets, such as the Boeing 737 and Airbus A320 families, with a range of approximately 3,500 nautical miles.
Natilus is distinguishing itself from traditional aerospace manufacturers through its focus on the Blended-Wing Body design. Unlike the conventional “tube-and-wing” architecture, the BWB design integrates the fuselage and wings into a single lifting body. In its official communications, Natilus claims this aerodynamic shift offers significant efficiency gains:
While the announcement signals strong momentum for Natilus, the timeline and regulatory hurdles remain significant factors. The “Horizon” aircraft is expected to enter service in the early 2030s, meaning the realization of the SpiceJet order is likely a decade away. Furthermore, the deal is explicitly “subject to certification.” Natilus is currently pursuing FAA Part 25 certification in the United States, which must be achieved before the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) in India can validate the aircraft for local operations.
For SpiceJet, this commitment appears to be a long-term strategic bet on efficiency. The airline, which has faced recent financial volatility, is looking to future-proof its fleet against rising fuel costs. By locking in orders for an aircraft that promises 50% lower operating costs, the carrier is signaling a focus on long-term profitability despite current market challenges.
The move also places Natilus in direct competition with other BWB developers, such as JetZero, which has secured backing from major U.S. carriers. However, by establishing a dedicated subsidiary in India, Natilus is attempting to secure a “first-mover” advantage in the Asian market, which industry forecasts suggest will require over 2,200 new aircraft by 2040.
Natilus Launches India Subsidiary; Secures Commitment for 100 Aircraft from SpiceJet
Strategic Expansion and Leadership
The SpiceJet Commitment
Technological Innovation: The Blended-Wing Body
AirPro News Analysis: Market Context and Risks
Sources
Photo Credit: Natilus
Aircraft Orders & Deliveries
Star Air in Talks for $1 Billion Embraer E2 Jet Fleet Expansion
Star Air is negotiating a $1 billion deal to acquire up to 20 Embraer E2 jets, marking Embraer’s first direct E2 commercial order in India with deliveries from 2028.
This article summarizes reporting by Bloomberg and journalists Mihir Mishra and Siddharth Philip. And publicly available datas.
Star Air, recognized as India’s largest private regional carrier, is reportedly in advanced discussions to acquire up to 20 aircraft from Brazilian aerospace manufacturer Embraer SA. According to reporting by Bloomberg, the potential deal is valued at approximately $1 billion based on list prices, marking a significant potential breakthrough for Embraer in the competitive Indian aviation market.
If finalized, this acquisition would represent the first direct commercial order for Embraer’s new E2 generation jets by an Indian airline. The move signals a strategic shift for Star Air, which currently operates a fleet of leased Embraer aircraft, toward asset ownership and long-term capacity expansion.
According to sources familiar with the matter cited by Bloomberg, the negotiations center on the Embraer E-Jet E2 family, specifically the E195-E2 or E190-E2 models. These aircraft are designed to bridge the gap between smaller turboprops and larger narrowbody jets like the Airbus A320, offering capacity for up to 146 passengers.
Industry reports indicate the deal is likely structured to include:
This potential order aligns with Star Air’s broader “Vision 2030” strategy. As reported by the Economic Times and other outlets in November 2025, the airline aims to expand its fleet to 50 aircraft by the end of the decade. Currently, the carrier operates an all-Embraer fleet consisting of 50-seater ERJ 145s and dual-class E175s.
The scale of this acquisition requires substantial capital, and Star Air has been actively strengthening its balance sheet to support such expansion. The airline is the aviation arm of the Sanjay Ghodawat Group (SGG), a diversified conglomerate with interests ranging from consumer products to energy.
In November 2025, Star Air successfully raised INR 150 crore (approximately $18 million) in a Series B funding round. This round attracted marquee investors, including Micro Labs Ltd and Deepak Agarwal. Furthermore, the airline has indicated plans to raise an additional INR 200 crore by the 2026-27 fiscal year to fund pre-delivery payments and operational scaling.
For Embraer, securing a firm order from Star Air would be a critical validation of its “Profit Hunter” marketing campaign in South Asia. While the manufacturer supplies aircraft to the Indian Air Force and the Border Security Force, it has historically struggled to break the commercial duopoly held by Airbus and Boeing in the region. To address this, Embraer opened a new corporate office in New Delhi in October 2025. This localized presence appears to be yielding results, as the manufacturer positions the E2 jet as the ideal solution for India’s regional connectivity scheme, UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Nagarik).
The Case for “Right-Sizing” in Indian Aviation
At AirPro News, we view this potential transaction as a pivotal moment for the concept of “right-sizing” in the Indian market. For years, Indian carriers have relied heavily on 180-seat Airbus A320s or Boeing 737s. While efficient on trunk routes (e.g., Delhi to Mumbai), these aircraft are often too large to operate profitably on thinner regional routes connecting Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities.
Conversely, turboprops like the ATR-72 are efficient but slower and lack the range for longer regional sectors. The Embraer E2 family sits in the middle, offering jet speeds and ranges with a seat capacity (100–146) that lowers the financial risk per flight. If Star Air proceeds with this order, it validates the business case that profitability in India is not solely about filling the largest possible plane, but about matching capacity to demand.
What is the value of the Star Air and Embraer deal?
The deal is estimated to be worth approximately $1 billion based on list prices, though final transaction prices are usually lower.
Which aircraft is Star Air buying?
The airline is considering the Embraer E-Jet E2 family, likely the E195-E2 or E190-E2 models. When will the new aircraft be delivered?
Deliveries are expected to begin in the fiscal year ending March 2028.
Is Star Air a public company?
No, Star Air is a private regional carrier and part of the Sanjay Ghodawat Group. However, it has raised external capital through Series B funding.
Star Air in Talks for $1 Billion Embraer Fleet Expansion
Details of the Proposed Acquisition
Deal Structure and Timeline
Financial Backing and Strategic Context
Embraer’s Push into India
AirPro News Analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
Sources
Photo Credit: Embraer E195-E2
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