(Hanoi, May 16, 2025) – In a historic moment for regional aviation, Vietjet Thailand has officially received the commitment of transfer of the first 50 of Vietjet Air Group’s 200 new Boeing 737-8 aircraft, marking a significant milestone in the airline’s growth and ambitious regional expansion. The handover ceremony, held in Hanoi, was honored by the presence of H.E. Pham Minh Chinh, Prime Minister of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, and H.E. Paetongtarn Shinawatra, Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Thailand, during her official visit to Vietnam for a high-level business matching mission.
During the ceremony, Vietjet Air Group Leadership, together with Boeing Leadership, handed over the aircraft transfer MOU to Mr. Woranate Laprabang, Chief Executive Officer of Vietjet Thailand. This moment marked a significant milestone in the ongoing development of Thailand's aviation industry and the strengthened collaboration between Vietjet Group, Boeing, and Vietjet Thailand.
The new Boeing 737-8 aircraft are equipped with advanced CFM International LEAP-1B engines, delivering exceptional fuel efficiency and reducing carbon emissions by up to 16% compared to previous generation aircraft. The aircraft also features an extended range of up to 6,570 kilometers, allowing for more direct and cost-effective routes, while enhancing passenger comfort with a quieter cabin and improved environmental performance.
With the addition of this new fleet, which boasts a longer range, superior fuel efficiency, and enhanced passenger comfort, Vietjet Thailand is well-equipped to strengthen its domestic network and expand its international operations, particularly to Japan and South Korea, two of the most popular destinations for Thai travelers. The new aircraft will also enable higher flight frequencies and the launch of additional routes between Thailand and Vietnam, where Vietjet Group already leads the market in both capacity and passenger volume. The addition of these 50 Boeing 737-8 aircrafts will also help to increase the employment opportunities, creating more than 5,000 positions available at Vietjet Thailand.
Mr. Woranate Laprabang, Chief Executive Officer of Vietjet Thailand, said, “This milestone marks a significant new chapter in our growth journey. With these modern aircraft, we will enhance our operational capabilities, provide even better service to our passengers, create over 5,000 more job opportunities and solidify Vietjet Thailand’s position as one of the largest and most competitive carriers in the country. We are excited to launch further new services in the region, to Vietnam, Japan, South Korea, and India this year, connecting our Thai customers with the world like never before.”
“Partnering with Vietjet to introduce the 737-8 in Thailand underscores our commitment to the promising future of tourism in Thailand and Southeast Asia,” said Penny Burtt, President of Boeing Southeast Asia. “With market-leading efficiency, the 737-8 will support Vietjet Thailand’s vision of a greener future for the vibrant Thai market and the broader Southeast Asia region.”
Vietjet Thailand will begin operating the new Boeing 737-8 aircraft this year, advancing its network expansion and enhancing operational capacity. With the expanded fleet, the airline is poised to become one of the largest operators in the country, solidifying its position as a key player in Thailand’s aviation sector.
Since its first operation, Vietjet Thailand has carried approximately 30 million passengers across its extensive network. The new fleet will provide more seat availability for passengers, driving the number of passengers to 100 million in the next five years, further strengthening the airline’s contribution to tourism, economic growth, and cultural exchange across the Asia-Pacific region. This expansion will also improve travel convenience and connect Thailand to key global destinations, reinforcing its role as a leading modern carrier.
