Under the agreement, the four companies will jointly develop an international standard maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) complex at Van Don international airport. This complex will be capable of simultaneously accommodating four wide-body and two narrow-body aircraft, projected to become one of Vietnam's largest aircraft maintenance centers. The project is expected to commence operations from 2028, creating approximately 1,000 jobs, including about 200 foreign experts, contributing to the development of high-quality human resources for the aviation industry.

Representatives of the partners at the signing event on 16/6. *Photo: Sun Group*

The project aims to address a structural supply-demand imbalance in Vietnam's MRO market, while simultaneously enhancing the country's aircraft maintenance capabilities and strengthening technical autonomy. Southeast Asia is one of the world's fastest-growing aviation markets. In Vietnam, the increasing demand for air transport is projected to drive aircraft maintenance service demand at a rate exceeding fleet growth. Currently, MRO capabilities are primarily concentrated in countries such as Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand.

According to the Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam, the country's MRO market is forecast to reach approximately 7,4 billion USD by 2030. However, current domestic maintenance capacity has not kept pace with demand growth, making the expansion of maintenance capabilities an urgent requirement. The project, with a total investment of approximately 360 million USD, will meet the rising demand for aircraft maintenance in Southeast Asia, contribute to the development of Vietnam's aviation industry, and strengthen the regional aviation value chain.

Additionally, Quang Ninh province and the Van Don area are actively attracting high value-added industries alongside tourism, services, and logistics. With its strategic location and advantageous transport infrastructure, the area is expected to become a new growth driver. The project will also contribute to local economic development by creating jobs and fostering related industries.

Mr. Richard Sell, Chief Executive Officer of HAECO Group. *Photo: Sun Group*

The project brings together the strengths of leading enterprises in aviation, technical maintenance, and industry. By combining these strengths, the partners aim to build a highly competitive and internationally recognized MRO center. The participating partners are:: Hong Kong Aircraft Engineering Company Limited (HAECO), Toyota Tsusho Corporation, and Japan Airlines Co., Ltd.

Hong Kong Aircraft Engineering Company Limited (HAECO) is a leading global provider of aircraft engineering and maintenance services. Established in 1950, HAECO offers a comprehensive portfolio of solutions, including airframe services, line maintenance, component overhaul, aero-structure repairs, landing gear services, engine services, global engine support, parts manufacturing, and technical training. The HAECO Group currently comprises 14 member companies with approximately 15,000 employees across Hong Kong (China), mainland China, Europe, and the Americas.

Mr. Junmin Zhao, President of Asia Pacific, Toyota Tsusho Corporation. *Photo: Sun Group*

Toyota Tsusho Corporation, a general trading company within the Toyota Group, operates globally across eight business divisions: Metal+, Circular Economy, Supply Chain, Mobility, Green Infrastructure, Digital Solutions, Lifestyle, and Africa. Building on its automotive industry foundation, the company is advancing activities in growth areas such as renewable energy, resource recycling, and Africa-related businesses, thereby contributing to solving social issues and realizing a sustainable society.

Mr. Ryuji Ogura, Senior Vice President of Engineering and Maintenance, Japan Airlines. *Photo: Sun Group*

Japan Airlines Co., Ltd, Japan's first private airline, was established in 1951 and is a member of the oneworld alliance. The airline currently operates a fleet of 234 aircraft, as of March this year, and began its international long-haul fleet renewal program with the Airbus A350-1000 from the winter 2023 schedule. Together with airlines within the JAL Group and partners, JAL operates an extensive network serving 413 airports in 71 countries and regions. The airline has received numerous awards for service quality, including Skytrax's 5-Star Airline certification and the "World Class Airline" title from the Airline Passenger Experience Association (APEX).

This MRO complex is expected to elevate Vietnam's aircraft maintenance capabilities to international standards, while also establishing a foundation to reduce reliance on overseas maintenance facilities. The project is also anticipated to support Vietnam's deeper engagement in high value-added segments of the global aviation value chain. Through this project, the four companies will combine aviation infrastructure, maintenance technology, operational capabilities, and industrial networks to contribute to building a sustainable aviation ecosystem and fostering the development of the aviation industry.

Thai Anh