First Of 14 Of The Airplanes The Carrier Has On Order Delivered

Vietnam Airlines has become the second airline in the world to operate the A350 XWB, following a special ceremony in Toulouse Monday. The A350-900 aircraft was delivered to global lessor AerCap on lease to the airline for operation on long haul routes and was scheduled to arrive in Hanoi Tuesday. Altogether, Vietnam Airlines is set to acquire 14 A350 XWBs, including 10 ordered from Airbus and four from lessors.

Vietnam Airlines will inaugurate commercial service with the A350 XWB later this week, initially on the Hanoi-Ho Chi Minh domestic sector and then on non-stop flights from Hanoi to Paris. The aircraft is configured with a premium three class layout, with 29 seats that convert to full flat beds in Business Class, 45 seats in Premium Economy and 231 in Economy. In addition to more personal space in all classes, the aircraft features the latest in-flight entertainment and connectivity systems throughout.

Vietnam Airlines’ new A350 XWB will join an existing Airbus fleet of 59 aircraft flying with the carrier, comprising 49 A321s and 10 A330s.

“The arrival of the A350 XWB marks the start of a major upgrade of our long haul fleet,” said Trinh Ngoc Thanh, Executive Vice President, Commercial, Vietnam Airlines. “Combining the latest technologies, a wider cabin and the highest levels of comfort, the A350 XWB will enable us to fly our passengers in style whichever class of travel they choose. We are proud to be the second airline in the world to receive the A350 XWB aircraft which is a step forward that helps us to fulfil our commitment to “reach further”.”

AerCap is the first leasing company to take delivery of an A350 XWB directly from Airbus. “We believe that the A350 XWB is an excellent addition to the Airbus family of aircraft," said Philip Scruggs, President & Chief Commercial Officer, AerCap. "It incorporates the latest technology in both airframe and engines and will deliver important operating efficiencies to our airline customers.”

AerCap is Airbus’ largest customer, and has ordered a cumulative total of 945 Airbus aircraft over the years. These include firm orders for a total of 20 A350 XWBs.

(Image provided by Airbus)

FMI: www.airbus.com