Vietnam’s leading low-cost airline, VietJet, will begin scheduled flights on the Hanoi–Con Dao route using Chinese-made COMAC C909 jets starting April 15, 2025.
A First in Vietnamese Skies: Chinese Jets in Domestic Operations
VietJet will become the first Vietnamese airline to operate domestic flights with the C909 (ARJ21-700) model jets developed by China’s commercial aircraft manufacturer COMAC. The Hanoi–Con Dao route, connecting the capital to the popular southern island, will initially operate with four daily flights.
Regulatory Hurdles Overcome
One of the biggest barriers to the C909’s expansion in international markets has been regulatory approval. So far, the aircraft has only received certification from civil aviation authorities in China and Indonesia. Vietnam’s Civil Aviation Authority (CAAV) remained cautious until completing its safety and compliance assessments.
To that end, CAAV sent a technical delegation to Shanghai in January 2025 to conduct an extensive inspection of COMAC’s production facilities. The visit included a thorough review of aircraft design, production quality, maintenance procedures, and certification standards.
According to a preliminary report, the C909 was deemed technically reliable, having received both a Type Certificate (TC) and a Production Certificate from China’s regulatory body.
C909 Jets Expanding Globally
As of January 7, 2025, COMAC had delivered a total of 160 C909 jets to 12 different airlines, including major carriers such as China Southern, Air China, and China Eastern. This marks a significant step in China’s strategy to make its domestic aviation industry more visible and competitive in global markets.
The Vietnamese government’s openness to evaluating these aircraft could deepen aviation cooperation between the two countries.
Full Support from COMAC to VietJet
Wei Yingbiao, Deputy General Manager of COMAC, described Vietnam as “an aviation market with high potential” and stated that the company is ready for comprehensive collaboration with VietJet—not only in aircraft supply, but also in financial solutions, pilot training, and technology sharing.
Meanwhile, regional carrier Lao Airlines also plans to lease a C909 jet from COMAC and conduct its first flight on April 12.
A New Era in Asian Aviation
VietJet’s upcoming C909 flights represent more than just the launch of a new route. They symbolize a paradigm shift in Asian aviation, highlighting affordable flight solutions, regional cooperation, and the integration of next-generation aviation technologies.
