Vietnam’s newest player Bamboo Airways gets permit to fly

Bamboo Airways received its Aircraft Operator Certificate (AOC) from Vietnam’s Aviation Administration, the parent company of the airline announced on January 8, 2019. Initially, the airline was supposed to be launched in October 2018, but the plans were cancelled after it failed to receive flying permits on time.

“The Aviation Administration of Vietnam officially granted the Aircraft Operator Certificate (AOC) to Bamboo Airways, officially bringing the airline into operation in the Vietnam aviation market”, a statement by FLC Group, the parent company of the airline, reads.

The newcomer in Vietnam’s aviation market receives its AOC two months after it obtained another important certification. On November 12, 2018, the country’s Ministry of Transport granted it an air transport business license, according to FLC Group.

No date on when the airline will officially begin operations has been announced yet. However, the carrier repeatedly stresses that it is more than ready to take up to the skies and already has ambitious goals for 2019.

In 2019, it plans to operate 37 routes - both domestic and international - starting with domestic Hanoi - Quy Nhon, Hanoi - Dong Hoi, Ho Chi Minh City - Quy Nhon, Hanoi - Ho Chi Minh City, Ho Chi Minh City - Van Don links. As for international flights, Asian destinations, possibly to Japan, Korea, Singapore, are also in the plans for this year.

Bamboo Airways has two major aircraft deals with Airbus and Boeing: a $3 billion (list prices) contract for 24 A321neos and a $5.6 billion one for 20 787-9 Dreamliners. The U.S.-made aircraft should reach Bamboo’s fleet in 2020-2021, while European aircraft are expected in 2022-2025. Until the new planes arrive, the company is planning on leasing 20 aircraft, expected to be delivered in the first quarter of 2019.