Based in Australia, Airline Ratings is widely regarded as one of the most trusted and independent voices in global aviation. Its Sustainability Awards go beyond generic pledges, focusing instead on verifiable action, innovation, and long-term strategy.

Vietnam Airlines stood out for its holistic approach to sustainability, with initiatives in both air and ground operations. Its strategy is anchored in four pillars: reducing emissions, recycling and reuse, carbon offsetting, and green office initiatives. In 2024, the airline cut nearly 70,000 tons of CO₂ emissions through efficient fleet management and fuel-saving procedures.

In a major step forward, the airline began using Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) on selected flights to Europe in 2025. SAF can reduce lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions by up to 80%, making it a critical solution for aviation’s decarbonization.

Vietnam Airlines has also replaced disposable plastics with environmentally friendly materials such as paper, wood, and bamboo, and reused unused disposable utensils. On the ground, the airline has increased the use of ground power instead of jet fuel-burning Auxiliary Power Units (APUs), reduced paper waste through digital transformation, switched to LED lighting, and installed automatic air conditioning systems in its offices.

Sharon Petersen, CEO of Airline Ratings, praised Vietnam Airlines for its innovative contributions, stating: “We look for more than just targets like net-zero by 2050 or the use of SAF. We recognize airlines that are turning commitments into real, trackable results. Vietnam Airlines has shown true leadership through creative, measurable actions that are already delivering positive impact.”

This award highlights not only Vietnam Airlines’ progress, but also Vietnam’s growing role as a responsible and forward-thinking nation in the global aviation sector. The airline is aligning its operations with international ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) standards, building a greener supply chain, and embedding sustainability into its entire ecosystem of services.

Looking ahead to 2030, Vietnam Airlines is working to further enhance its ESG performance, implement a unified carbon measurement and management system, and build a strong foundation to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, supporting Vietnam’s national climate goals and global environmental agreements.

Dinh Van Tuan, Executive Vice President of Vietnam Airlines, commented: “Sustainability is a long-term, strategic priority. This recognition reinforces our commitment to lead the transition to a cleaner, greener, and more responsible aviation industry. It encourages us to continue taking bold, decisive action for the benefit of our passengers, our country, and the global community.”

The award is a proud achievement for Vietnam Airlines and a powerful reflection of Vietnam’s broader efforts to promote green growth, circular economy principles, and international collaboration. With a clear vision and a track record of action, Vietnam Airlines continues to drive sustainable transformation in aviation, bringing long-term value to travelers, partners, and the nation it represents.