Vietnam signs up for 12 additional 787-8 Dreamliners

Hanoi: Vietnam Airlines and Vietnam Aircraft Leasing Company (VALC) have signed deals for twelve 787-8 Dreamliners with US aircraft maker Boeing to help the state-run carrier modernise its fleet and meet surging demand for air travel.

While Vietnam Airlines has agreed to buy four of the large passenger jets, the newly formed Vietnam Aircraft Leasing Company (VALC) will buy eight of the twin-aisle aircraft to lease out to the airline. Deliveries to VALC will be made from 2016 onward

VALC said its eight planes would cost a combined $1.4 billion, putting the total price tag for the 12 aircraft at about $2.1 billion.

The first of four 787s ordered under a previous deal are due for delivery by late 2009.

Vietnam Airlines plans to operate a total of 20 Dreamliners by 2015, and 28 by 2020, the airline said in a statement.

"The 787 Dreamliner will enable Vietnam Airlines to better match airplane capabilities with market expectations and demands as the airline expands ...to include North America and new European and Asian destinations," said Michael Fleming, Boeing''s senior sales director for the Asia Pacific region.