Vietnam Airlines has received the first of 20 Airbus A321neo aircraft it has on order. The airline is renewing its narrow-body fleet, and aims to have 110 aircraft by 2020. The current fleet includes 57 A321ceos and three A330s, as well as 12 of the wide-body A350-900.
The largest aircraft in the A320 family, the A321neo boasts wider aisles and seats. In a two-class layout, the aircraft accommodates 203 passengers – eight in business and 195 in economy.
“Vietnam Airlines appreciates the exceptional efficiency of the A321neo with 15% reduced fuel burn and outstanding comfort,” said Duong Tri Thanh, president and CEO of Vietnam Airlines.
“Especially, the wireless IFE systems on the Airbus A321neo will bring the flying experience to a new level. Delivery of this aircraft is a momentous occasion that marks Vietnam Airlines’ ongoing efforts to upgrade our narrow-body fleet as well as our four-star service quality. We are confident that the A321neo fleet will further offer passengers high levels of comfort on growing domestic routes in Vietnam and Asia.”
“The A321neo will be a great enabler for Vietnam Airlines’ continuous expansion in the Asian market and its positioning as one of the world’s leading carriers,” said Christian Scherer, chief commercial officer at Airbus. “The A321neo delivers 15% reduced fuel burn and fitting seamlessly into its existing fleet of nearly 60 A321ceos, it’ll add a competitive edge to Vietnam Airlines’ operations.”
From December 2018, passengers on Vietnam Airlines’ A321neo will benefit from wireless streaming IFE. The airline already offers the technology on its wide-body Boeing 787 and A350 aircraft. Passengers can connect to the complimentary system, which includes movies and music, through their PEDs (smartphones, tablets and laptops) on flight mode.
