Vietjet Expands China Network with Five New Routes, Signs Fleet and Finance Deals
Vietjet launches five new China routes and signs aircraft financing and partnership deals to expand capacity and strengthen regional aviation presence.
RUKAIYA KADIVAL 
April 19, 2026: Vietjet has announced the launch of five new routes between Vietnam and China, alongside aircraft financing and technology partnerships, as the carrier accelerates its regional expansion strategy across Asia and strengthens operational capacity through fleet and infrastructure investments.
The move, unveiled during the state visit of Vietnam’s leader To Lam to China, signals deeper economic and aviation cooperation between the two countries while reinforcing Vietjet’s position in one of the fastest-growing travel corridors in the region.
New Routes Strengthen Vietnam–China Connectivity
Vietjet has introduced five new routes connecting key destinations across Vietnam and China: Hanoi–Hangzhou, Hanoi–Enshi, Hanoi–Huangshan, Ho Chi Minh City–Guilin, and Ho Chi Minh City–Huangshan. Of these, the Hanoi–Enshi and Ho Chi Minh City–Guilin routes are already operational.
The expansion adds to Vietjet’s existing network of 130 routes linking the two countries, through which the airline has transported nearly 14.5 million passengers over more than a decade. The new services are expected to improve connectivity between major economic centers and tourism hubs, while supporting regional mobility across Asia-Pacific.
The airline said the additional routes will also enhance Vietnam’s role as a regional transit hub, enabling smoother onward connections to emerging destinations across Asia.
Fleet Expansion Backed by Financing Agreement
To support its growing network, Vietjet has entered into a financing agreement with SPDB Financial Leasing to fund up to 10 COMAC C909 aircraft under operating lease arrangements. The deal is aimed at increasing fleet capacity while maintaining cost efficiency.
The inclusion of COMAC C909 aircraft reflects a broader strategy to diversify fleet composition and optimize operating economics as demand for regional air travel continues to rise.
The financing arrangement is expected to provide flexibility in capital deployment while enabling the airline to scale operations without significant upfront investment.
Technology and Supply Chain Partnerships
In addition to fleet financing, Vietjet has signed a partnership with AVIC Cabin Systems to develop aircraft interiors and strengthen supply chain capabilities. The collaboration is intended to improve passenger experience while enhancing operational efficiency.
The airline also deepened ties with COMAC University, which conferred the title of Distinguished Professor on Vietjet executive Nguyen Thi Phuong Thao in recognition of contributions to aviation research and international cooperation.
These agreements reflect a broader push to integrate technology, training, and supply chain resilience into Vietjet’s growth model.
Strategic Expansion Amid Regional Growth
The latest developments highlight Vietjet’s strategy of leveraging partnerships to expand its footprint across Asia. The airline has increasingly focused on building long-term collaborations with regional players to support growth in both passenger traffic and operational capabilities.
Leadership emphasized that partnerships with Chinese institutions and companies are creating new opportunities for both business expansion and broader economic cooperation. The approach is aligned with shifting global dynamics, where airlines are seeking to build resilient networks through cross-border collaboration.
The airline’s expansion comes at a time when demand for intra-Asia travel is recovering and intensifying, driven by economic activity, tourism flows, and increased regional integration.
Current Position
Vietjet’s addition of new routes and strategic agreements underscores its ambition to strengthen its position as a leading low-cost carrier in Asia. By combining network expansion with fleet investment and technology partnerships, the airline is positioning itself to capture growing demand while improving operational efficiency.
The continued focus on connectivity between Vietnam and China, one of the region’s most significant travel corridors, is expected to play a central role in Vietjet’s long-term growth strategy.
