Singapore – Vietnamese carrier Vietjet and French technology group Thales have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to apply artificial intelligence and cybersecurity to airline operations, the companies said.
According to the companies, the MoU will explore technologies aimed at optimising flight operations, enabling data-driven maintenance and expanding the use of Thales’ connected aircraft services.
The cooperation will focus on applying AI and cybersecurity tools to protect Vietjet’s critical aviation systems, including through secure cloud solutions, predictive analytics and decision-support tools, the companies said.
Thales said it employs more than 800 AI experts globally, a resource it positions as combining aviation-specific expertise with deep technology capabilities.
The MoU also covers training and technical certification pathways intended to build local engineering and support capabilities in Vietnam, with Thales positioning itself as a partner in local capability development and knowledge transfer.
The digital aviation agreement was signed alongside a separate Repair-By-The-Hour (RBTH) contract, under which Thales will provide component maintenance for Vietjet’s Airbus A320 and A330 fleets, the companies said.
Both agreements were signed on 10 September, during a visit by a Vietnamese delegation to France, in the presence of Vietnamese General Secretary and President To Lam and French President Emmanuel Macron.
The partnership builds on aviation’s status as a key pillar of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership established between France and Vietnam in October 2024.
“With Thales’ 30-year presence in Vietnam, we are honoured by Vietjet’s continued trust. We look forward to supporting the airline in its next phase of growth through innovation, advanced technology and operational excellence,” said Pascale Sourisse, CEO of Thales International, Thales.
“Our partnership with Thales will not only enhance the reliability, safety and operational efficiency of Vietjet’s fleet, but also open up new areas of cooperation in digital technology, AI and cybersecurity,” said Nguyen Thanh Son, CEO of Vietjet.
“Together with leading French partners, we look forward to connecting technological expertise with a dynamic aviation market, contributing to stronger trade, investment and ties between Vietnam and France,” he concluded.
