Vietnam Airlines has taken delivery of its first Airbus A321neo in Hamburg, Germany.

The plane is the first of 20 A321neos ordered by the airline.

The A321neo is the largest member of the A320 family, with wider aisles and seats, accommodating 203 passengers in a two-class configuration, with eight seats in business and 195 in economy.

Vietnam Airlines has been consistently upgrading its fleet, boasting one of the youngest and most modern in Asia.

The arrival of the new fleet is a significant step in the flag carrier’s narrow-body fleet strategy.

Duong Tri Thanh, president, Vietnam Airlines, said: “Vietnam Airlines appreciates the exceptional efficiency of Airbus A321neo with 20 per cent reduced fuel burn and outstanding comfort.

“Especially, wireless in-flight entertainment system on Airbus A321neo will bring the flying experience to the new level.

“We are confident that the Airbus A321neo fleet will further offer passengers high levels of comforts on growing domestic routes of Vietnam and Asia.”

Vietnam Airlines is the national flag carrier of Vietnam and the major carrier in the south-east Asia, operating 94 routes to 21 domestic and 29 international destinations with an average of 400 flights per day.

Christian Scherer, Airbus chief commercial officer, said: “The A321neo will be a great enabler for Vietnam Airlines’ continuous expansion in the Asian market and its positioning as one of the world’s leading carriers.

“The A321neo delivers 15 per cent reduced fuel burn and fitting seamlessly into its existing fleet of nearly 60 A321ceos, it’ll add a competitive edge to Vietnam Airlines’ operations.”

More Information

Take a look at a series of shots from the delivery here.