Vietnam is taking bold steps to diversify its aviation sector by exploring partnerships with the Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China (COMAC).
This move aims to reduce the reliance on Western giants like Boeing and Airbus while fostering industrial growth.
Recent developments have included regulatory approvals and aircraft operational trials. They signal Vietnam’s serious interest in integrating COMAC’s Chinese manufactured aircraft into its market.
The partnership could reshape Vietnam’s aviation landscape, and strengthen COMAC’s positioning in the Asian aviation sector.
Regulatory Breakthrough for COMAC Aircraft
On 14 April 2025, Vietnam’s Civil Aviation Authority (CAAV) made a landmark decision. It approved aircraft certified by Chinese regulators.
This national approval clears the path for COMAC’s C909 (formerly ARJ21) and C919 jets to operate in the country.
The CAAV proposed recognizing China’s aircraft design standards as equivalent to U.S. certifications.
This regulatory shift opens doors for Vietnamese airlines to access alternative aircraft options, breaking the Airbus-Boeing dominance.
By aligning with COMAC, Vietnam positions itself as a pioneer in adopting Chinese-made jets in the ASEAN region.
VietJet Leads the Way
Vietnamese low-cost carrier VietJet has already embraced COMAC’s aircraft. In mid-April 2025, VietJet began operating two leased C909 regional jets from Chengdu Airlines.
These jets are adorned with VietJet’s branding and symbols marking 75 years of Vietnam-China relations. They now serve domestic routes like Hanoi to Con Dao Island and Ho Chi Minh City to Con Dao.
Initially delayed by regulatory hurdles, VietJet’s operations showcase COMAC’s growing footprint in Vietnam. This trial is a critical test for COMAC, proving its aircraft’s reliability to international markets.
Industrial Ambitions and Strategic Talks
Vietnam’s partnership with COMAC has been further strengthened by government talks this week. During a meeting on Monday 14th, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh urged COMAC to invest in Vietnam’s aviation industry.
He proposed manufacturing aircraft components locally, establishing maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) facilities, and training skilled workers.
These initiatives aim to create jobs and build a robust aviation ecosystem. COMAC’s Chairman, He Dongfeng, expressed his enthusiasm for deeper cooperation.
The Chairman hinted at MRO facilities if the nation commits to significant aircraft orders—potentially 30 or more units.
Balancing Global Partnerships
Vietnam’s engagement with COMAC reflects a strategic balancing act. While embracing Chinese aircraft, Vietnam has also confirmed plans to purchase Boeing jets.
This approach strengthens trade ties with both China and the U.S., avoiding over-dependence on any single partner.
Vietnam has expressed an ambition to join COMAC’s supply chain, with China offering support to elevate Vietnam’s role in global aviation manufacturing.
This dual strategy positions the country as a savvy player in the aviation market.
A Win for COMAC and Vietnam
For COMAC, Vietnam is a crucial market to demonstrate its aircraft’s viability. Success here could sway other ASEAN nations and further challenge the Airbus-Boeing duopoly.
However, the Chinese-built jets lack certification from major bodies like the FAA or EASA, limiting their global reach.
For Vietnam, partnering with COMAC offers cost-effective aircraft options and industrial growth opportunities. By fostering this collaboration, Vietnam aims to build a resilient aviation sector while strengthening ties with China.
The partnership with COMAC marks a turning point for its aviation industry. With regulatory approvals, operational trials, and ambitious industrial plans, this collaboration could redefine Vietnam’s role in global aviation.
As VietJet’s C909 jets take flight, watch for further developments from Vietnam’s steadily emerging aviation sector.
