VietJet faces UK court over $250 million aircraft debt dispute

Vietnamese airline VietJet is involved in a legal dispute in London regarding approximately $250 million owed to aircraft lessor FW Aviation. The debt stems from unpaid rent and lease termination payments for four Airbus A321 aircraft that were grounded during the pandemic. While the leases ended in October 2021, the total amount has grown due to interest and legal costs.

In October 2026, UK courts issued orders restricting VietJet from dealing with assets outside Vietnam. These orders include a freeze on aircraft orders and the appointment of receivers to manage undelivered aircraft on the airline's behalf. The court took these measures following concerns that the airline had transferred the value of its aircraft order book to a related company, potentially hindering creditor collections.

Sources indicate that VietJet has arranged funds and aims to complete a settlement by November 13, 2026. Resolving the dispute is critical for the airline, as it expects to receive its first Airbus A330neo and A321XLR aircraft shortly after the matter is settled.