Vietnamese airlines ramp up investments in dedicated cargo fleets

Nguyen Quang Trung, deputy CEO of Vietnam Airlines, said on Saturday that the national flag carrier is strengthening its operational capabilities while developing an integrated air logistics ecosystem.

As part of the plan, Vietnam Airlines will put its first dedicated cargo aircraft into service in the third quarter of 2026.

The initial routes will serve high-demand markets including Hong Kong, South Korea, Singapore, and India.

The airline is also considering investments in cargo warehouses and logistics centers at Long Thanh Airport in southern Vietnam and Gia Binh Airport in the northern region. Both airports are under construction.

It is also seeking partnerships with domestic and international companies to expand its global cargo transport network.

According to Trung, adopting a common data standard across stakeholders in the logistics chain would help businesses shorten processing times, reduce operating costs, and improve service quality.

Vietnam Airlines expects its dedicated freighter fleet to give the carrier greater control over cargo capacity, flight schedules, and route planning, reducing its reliance on the belly cargo capacity of passenger aircraft.

Meanwhile, Vietjet has established its dedicated cargo business unit, Vietjet Air Cargo, and has expanded cooperation with airlines and logistics companies to better connect Vietnam's domestic transport network with international markets.

Aviation experts said competition in the air cargo sector extends beyond the number of aircraft in operation.

Airlines, freight forwarders, and ground service providers must also improve data connectivity, cargo tracking capabilities, and the handling of specialized shipments to remain competitive. 

The International Air Transport Association forecast that global air cargo revenue will reach US$162 billion in 2026 as demand continues to grow for the transport of high-value goods, pharmaceuticals, electronic components, and cross-border e-commerce shipments.