Vietjet and Boeing have finalised an order for 100 737 MAX 200 aircraft, the largest ever commercial aircraft purchase in Vietnam’s aviation history.

Tran Dai Quang, president of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, and US president Barack Obama witnessed the historic agreement, which has been valued at approximately US$11.3 billion.

The signing ceremony, conducted by Vietjet president Nguyen Thi Phuong Thao and Boeing Commercial Airplanes president Ray Conner, took place at the Presidential Palace in Hanoi.

The 737 MAX incorporates the latest CFM International LEAP-1B engines and advanced winglets to deliver efficiency, reliability and passenger comfort.

The new single-aisle aircraft has a 40 per cent smaller noise footprint than today’s single-aisle airplanes and will deliver 20 per cent lower fuel use than the previous generation 737s.

“Boeing is proud to again play an integral role in advancing Vietnam’s aviation industry.

“We’re honoured to be joined by president Tran Dai Quang and president Obama for this historic milestone and order of 100 737 MAX airplanes,” said Conner.

“Incorporating the latest design and technology features, the highly efficient 737 MAX will provide Vietjet’s growing network with market-leading economics, a superior passenger experience and contribute significantly to their future success.”

Boeing will begin delivery of the aircraft in 2019, to be completed by 2023, which will help Vietjet to expand its domestic and international network, and increase the fleet to 200.