Vietnam Airlines is exploring a return to the low-cost market with up to 25 Airbus A321neo aircraft, potentially from 2027. The Vietnamese national carrier is approaching aircraft lessors about 20 to 25 single-aisle jets in a high-density configuration seating around 240 passengers, as it considers adding a separate budget brand alongside its full-service operation.
Shareholders approved a medium-term strategy earlier this year covering both full-service and low-cost airline brands. The proposed operation would help Vietnam Airlines compete more directly with Vietjet and the newer Sun PhuQuoc Airways in Vietnam’s expanding domestic market.
The discussions remain preliminary. No firm Airbus order or completed leasing agreement has been reported, and the number of aircraft, launch date and structure of the operation could change with market conditions. It is also not clear whether the project would use the group’s existing Pacific Airlines platform or a separate entity.
Vietnam Airlines has not publicly confirmed the plan. A 240-seat A321neo fleet would provide a higher-capacity platform for lower-cost flying, but the airline has yet to disclose a network, operating model or financing arrangements.