Launch of Asia-Pacific Aviation Financial Hub (AAFH)
On February 3, 2026, at the Singapore Airshow, VIFC-HCMC officially announced the launch of the Asia-Pacific Aviation Financial Hub (AAFH). The announcement was led by Dr. Truong Minh Huy Vu, Chairman of the Operating Agency of the Vietnam International Financial Centre in Ho Chi Minh City.
The launch marks a strategic step in positioning Vietnam within the regional aviation finance ecosystem, particularly as Asia-Pacific continues to drive global aviation growth.
Integrated Aviation Finance Ecosystem
AAFH is designed under a “one-stop, multi-service” model, integrating key components across the aviation value chain. These include aircraft financing and leasing, maintenance and repair operations (MRO), training, and logistics.
The hub operates under an international-standard regulatory framework, with incentives such as tax benefits, capital flow liberalization, foreign exchange flexibility, and multi-currency payment systems. This structure aims to improve efficiency and attract global aviation stakeholders to operate within a unified platform.
Strategic Partnerships with Global Industry Leaders
During the event, VIFC-HCMC awarded Honorary Strategic Membership to Airbus and Boeing, recognizing their role as leading global aircraft manufacturers.
This recognition is enabled under a special mechanism outlined in Resolution 222/2025/QH15, allowing Fortune Global 500 companies to join the financial center without standard registration procedures. The move reflects a proactive approach to attracting top-tier global partners and accelerating ecosystem formation.
Initial Transactions Exceed USD 6.1 Billion
AAFH recorded more than USD 6.1 billion in transaction value at launch through agreements between Vietjet and international partners.
Key deals include an engine supply and service agreement with Pratt & Whitney for 44 aircraft, as well as aircraft financing arrangements with Pacific Investment Management Company (PIMCO). These early transactions demonstrate immediate market traction and validate the hub’s operational model.
Long-Term Vision and Market Positioning
AAFH aims to reach a total transaction volume of USD 50 billion by 2035, aligning with the rapid expansion of the aviation sector in Asia-Pacific.
The launch of AAFH at a global platform like the Singapore Airshow signals Vietnam’s intent to integrate more deeply into high-value segments of the aviation supply chain. It also reinforces Ho Chi Minh City’s emerging role as a new destination for international financial flows linked to aviation and infrastructure.
Conclusion
The establishment of AAFH under VIFC-HCMC highlights a focused strategy to capture opportunities in aviation finance, one of the fastest-growing segments in global capital markets.
If successfully executed, the initiative could strengthen Vietnam’s position in regional finance while enabling deeper participation in the global aviation ecosystem.
