Safran proud to be the trustful partner with Airlines in Vietnam

Safran: Tự hào là đối tác tin cậy của các hãng hàng không tại Việt Nam

With global expertise spanning aircraft propulsion, equipment, interiors, avionics, and high-precision defence and space technologies, Safran continues to broaden its strategy focused on decarbonising aviation. Safran established its first representative office in Vietnam in 1997, marking the beginning of a partnership that has now extended for nearly three decades. From its early presence in the country, Safran recognised the strategic importance of Vietnam - both as a fast-growing aviation market and as a nation demonstrating strong ambition to modernise its aerospace capabilities, strengthen sustainability commitments, and deepen international cooperation.

Vietnamese airlines

Throughout its presence in Vietnam, Safran has collaborated closely with all major Vietnamese carriers, including Vietnam Airlines, VietJet Air, Vietravel Airlines, Bamboo Airways, and Sun PhuQuoc Airways. These partnerships have been shaped by a broad range of technical support agreements covering critical aircraft systems, including engines, aircraft seating, braking systems, landing gear, and advanced avionics.

Safran’s cooperation with Vietnamese airlines has extended beyond equipment and maintenance to embrace next-generation digital and sustainability-focused solutions. In particular, Safran has supported airlines in adopting SFCO2 (Fuel saving program) and Cassiopée Alpha+ (flight data analysis), which helps carriers optimise operations, reduce fuel burn, and lower emissions. These activities align closely with Vietnam’s national commitment to achieving net-zero emissions.

High-tech training for Vietnam

Safran believes that the foundation of a strong aviation sector is a highly skilled workforce. Between 1999 and 2014, as part of the Vietnam–France High-Quality Engineering Training Program (PFIEV), Safran hosted annual aviation seminars and helped train 30 aviation engineers for Vietnam’s aviation. These interns conducted training programs at Safran facilities in both Singapore and France, gaining exposure to advanced engineering practices, cutting-edge technologies, and real-world applications in engine maintenance and aircraft systems.

This initiative has demonstrated Safran’s commitment to supporting Vietnam’s aviation development not only through world-class products, technology, and services, but also through long-term investment in human capital. Many graduates of the PFIEV-Safran collaboration have gone on to make significant contributions to Vietnam's aerospace industry, forming part of the nation’s evolving aerospace talent pool.

Ms. Pham Thi Thanh Van, Chief Representative of Safran in Vietnam.

High-level engagement

Safran’s long-standing presence in Vietnam has been supported by regular engagement with national authorities, ensuring alignment with the country’s aviation development priorities and regulatory framework.

In 2024, during the historic visit of President and General Secretary To Lam to France, Safran and VietJet formalised a major service contract for the LEAP-1B engine, which powers VietJet’s growing fleet of 200 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft valued at USD 4 billion. The first aircraft under this program was delivered in November 2025, including those serving VietJet’s joint venture, Thai VietJet, in Thailand.

Later in mid-2025, Safran also held a meeting with Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh during his visit to France for the Third United Nations Ocean Conference. These discussions reinforced the alignment between Safran’s strategic objectives and Vietnam’s ambitions to modernise its air transport industry and strengthen national capabilities in high-tech sectors.

Helicopter

Safran’s activities in Vietnam extend beyond commercial aviation to include significant partnerships in the helicopter sector. Safran has worked closely with the Vietnam Helicopter Corporation (VNH) for more than two decades, with VNH South recognised as one of Safran’s most important regional customers. VNH South has operated Safran helicopter engines for over 20 years with a strong record of safety and reliability, contributing to Vietnam’s offshore, transport, and specialised helicopter operations.

In 2025, Safran and VNH South celebrated their 15th year of successful partnership under the Support-By-the-Hour (SBH) contract, commemorated at the Paris Air Show 2025. This milestone highlighted not only the operational trust between the organisations but also Safran’s commitment to supporting Vietnam’s helicopter fleet with engine performance, maintenance, and lifecycle services.

Defense & Spaces

Beyond civil aviation, Safran plays an essential role in supporting Vietnam’s defence and space sectors. Safran supplies the Vietnamese Navy and artillery forces with advanced navigation systems for submarines and high-performance optronics devices - critical technologies that enhance situational awareness, accuracy, and operational effectiveness.

Safran is also a proud contributor to Vietnam’s national space ambitions. As part of the Vietnam Satellite LOTUSat-1 program, Safran successfully installed the ground station at Hoa Lac High-Tech Park, marking a significant milestone that enables Vietnam to expand its satellite monitoring and earth-observation capabilities.

Security

During President Emmanuel Macron's official visit to Vietnam, management from Safran Electronics & Defence also held a meeting with the leadership of Vietnam's Ministry of Public Security. The discussion focused on exploring potential areas of cooperation in advanced technologies that could support the modernisation of Vietnam’s security capabilities. Both sides exchanged views on technological research, reflecting Vietnam’s broader objective of strengthening autonomy in high-technology sectors. This engagement underscores Safran’s willingness to work collaboratively with Vietnamese institutions in security domains where its expertise can contribute to align with the national long-term pathway.

Safran’s contribution to aircraft. (Source: Safran)

Supply Chain

With its long-standing engagement in the country, Safran has taken meaningful steps to deepen industrial cooperation and help Vietnamese manufacturers integrate into the global aerospace supply chain. The establishment of a supply chain team in Vietnam reflects Safran’s commitment to building mutually beneficial partnerships with local industry, supporting capability development, and identifying high-potential Vietnamese suppliers that meet international aerospace standards.

Vietnam remains one of the most dynamic aviation markets in Southeast Asia, with strong economic growth, rising passenger demand, and substantial investments in airport and fleet expansion. As the nation continues to modernise its infrastructure and address future challenges, including decarbonization, digitalisation, and sustainable growth, Safran stands ready to support these efforts.

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