Vietnam’s aviation regulator has proposed recognizing China’s aircraft design certifications as equivalent to U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) standards, potentially clearing the way for Chinese state-owned aircraft manufacturer COMAC to enter the Vietnamese market, according to documents reviewed by Reuters.
Expanding Vietnam’s Aircraft Options
The proposal by the Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam (CAAV) seeks to amend regulations by April 30, allowing the import and operation of Chinese-certified aircraft without requiring FAA or European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) approval. However, this policy change still requires final approval from Vietnam’s top leadership.
If implemented, the amendment would provide Vietnamese airlines with more aircraft choices, reducing their reliance on Boeing and Airbus. The move comes as COMAC intensifies efforts to gain a foothold in Vietnam, holding meetings with top government officials and offering competitive incentives to local carriers.
Balancing Trade Relations with the U.S.
Vietnam’s aviation sector is also navigating complex trade dynamics, particularly with the United States. The country has been working to reduce its trade surplus with the U.S. following former President Donald Trump’s reciprocal tariff measures. As part of this effort, Vietnam has confirmed its intent to purchase Boeing 737 MAX jets, signaling continued investment in American aircraft.
The CAAV acknowledged the regulatory hurdles facing new entrants like COMAC, stating:
“Aircraft models that have not yet received FAA or EASA certification face challenges under Vietnam’s current legal framework.”
VietJet’s Interest in COMAC Jets
Vietnam’s leading budget airline, VietJet, has been exploring a short-term lease of two COMAC C919 regional jets for domestic routes. Initially scheduled for delivery in mid-January, the planes’ arrival was delayed due to pending regulatory approvals.
Two C919 aircraft previously operated by Chengdu Airlines have already been registered under VietJet’s fleet since late January, featuring VietJet branding and the number “75,” symbolizing 75 years of Vietnam-China relations. One of these jets conducted a demonstration flight across Vietnam on January 23, making stops in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Con Dao before returning to Chengdu.
Deepening Vietnam-China Cooperation
The potential acceptance of COMAC aircraft aligns with broader Vietnam-China economic cooperation, which has expanded into defense, infrastructure, and transportation projects.
While Vietnamese aviation authorities and VietJet have not officially commented on the matter, the move to diversify aircraft suppliers could mark a strategic shift in Vietnam’s aviation sector—one that balances economic partnerships, trade relations, and market competitiveness.
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Source: Vietnam Insider