New AirAsia affiliate VietJet plans Dec-2011 launch

AirAsia's new Vietnamese affiliate, VietJet Air, plans to launch services in Dec-2011 with up to three leased A320s. VietJet Air tells CAPA it will initially operate on domestic trunk routes connecting Vietnam's three main cities - Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City and Danang - with international services expected to be added in 1H2012. VietJet plans to operate fleet of five A320s by early 2012. All the initial aircraft will be sourced from leasing companies although future aircraft could be sourced from the order book of the AirAsia Group, which last year acquired a 30% stake in the start-up. VietJet anticipates adding five aircraft per year from 2013, giving a fleet of 15 aircraft by the end of 2014 and 25 aircraft by the end of 2016. The carrier hopes to secure approval to adopt the AirAsia brand prior to launching services, but is prepared to go ahead with the launch without the AirAsia brand if necessary. [more-CAPA report]