SMBC Aviation Capital Places Ten Boeing 737-8 MAX Aircraft with Vietnam Airlines
22/07/2026
Dublin, Ireland – 20 July 2026 – SMBC Aviation Capital, the leading global aviation finance platform, announced the placement of ten (10) Boeing 737-8 MAX aircraft with Vietnam Airlines, with deliveries scheduled for 2028. The aircraft form part of SMBC Aviation Capital's order book with Boeing.
The agreement supports Vietnam Airlines' plans to modernise its narrowbody fleet as the airline continues to grow its domestic and regional network.
Commenting on the signing, Barry Flannery, Chief Commercial Officer of SMBC Aviation Capital, said: “This deal reflects the strength of our relationship with Vietnam Airlines, and the strong growth we continue to see across the region. The 737-8 MAX will bring meaningful efficiency gains for the airline, and we look forward to continuing to work closely with the team at Vietnam Airlines.”
Nguyen Chien Thang, Vietnam Airlines Executive Vice President, said: "We are pleased to expand our cooperation with SMBC Aviation Capital through this agreement, an important milestone in our narrowbody fleet renewal strategy. These aircraft will strengthen our domestic and regional network as travel demand across the region continues to grow, while advancing Vietnam Airlines' long-term commitment to sustainable aviation and operational excellence."
Notes to editor:
About SMBC Aviation Capital
SMBC Aviation Capital is the leading global aviation finance platform, servicing a fleet of 1,700 aircraft with more than 170 airlines globally. Benefiting from the strong support of its shareholders Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group and Sumitomo Corporation, SMBC Aviation Capital has a high-quality global airline customer base with an owned portfolio comprising 80% new technology aircraft (by net book value). SMBC Aviation Capital has a strong capital position and holds an A- and BBB+ rating with S&P and Fitch respectively, reflecting the long-term strength of its business. For more information, please visit: https://www.smbc.aero/
About Vietnam Airlines
Vietnam Airlines, the national flag carrier of Vietnam and a member of the SkyTeam alliance since 2010, plays a leading role in connecting Vietnam with the world. Serving 22 domestic and 39 international destinations across 22 countries and territories through a network of 118 routes, the airline operates a modern fleet of more than 100 aircraft, including state-of-the-art Boeing 787 Dreamliners and Airbus A350s. Guided by its ambition to become a leading airline in Asia, Vietnam Airlines delivers world-class services while showcasing the warmth, sophistication, and cultural richness of Vietnam to global travellers.
Media contacts
SMBC Aviation Capital
Ellen Sherry – +353 86 7825906
Vietnam Airlines
Vietnam Airlines Corp Comms - +84903242577
“This deal reflects the strength of our relationship with Vietnam Airlines, and the strong growth we continue to see across the region. The 737-8 MAX will bring meaningful efficiency gains for the airline, and we look forward to continuing to work closely with the team at Vietnam Airlines.”
Barry Flannery, Chief Commercial Officer of SMBC Aviation Capital