Michalon also highlighted that Vietnam was a key market for civil and specialised helicopters of Airbus.

“Going forward, Airbus Helicopters will focus on research and technology transfer, the training of pilots and engineers, and the maintenance of new-generation helicopters in the country,” Michalon said.

Deputy Prime Minister Tran Hong Ha said he appreciated Airbus’ cooperation with Vietnamese partners in the aviation industry. The prime minister noted that Airbus could support Vietnam in developing strategies and plans for the aviation industry.

He called for Airbus to assist Vietnamese partners in training the workforce, research, and transferring technology in component and equipment manufacturing under its global value chain.

The group should expand partnerships across new areas like aerospace/satellite, helicopters, science and technology, search and rescue, security, and defence.

“Airbus Helicopters should deploy research and investment based on the development strategy and potential of the Vietnamese market,” the deputy prime minister noted.

Airbus' existing partners in aircraft component manufacturing include Artus (Meggitt) Vietnam in Ho Chi Minh City, which provides electromechanical equipment for the A320, A330, and A350 wide-body aircraft.

The other partner, Nikkiso Vietnam, in Hanoi, manufactures composite structures for the A320 Sharklet aircraft and components for the A330neo and A350 aircraft.

Airbus is the leading aircraft supplier to airlines in Vietnam. Up to now, domestic airlines have operated more than 220 Airbus aircraft, and there are more than 110 aircraft awaiting delivery.