Strategic shareholder ANA backs Vietnam Airlines' next growth phase

Japan’s ANA Holdings said it will continue backing Vietnam Airlines as the carrier enters a new phase of growth after surviving one of aviation’s most difficult periods. Speaking at Vietnam Airlines’ 2026 Annual General Meeting on Sunday, Katayama Tōru, senior vice president for Alliances and International Affairs at ANA Holdings, referenced nearly a decade of partnership and Vietnam Airlines’ transformation progress. ANA said it remains committed as a strategic shareholder and aims to maximize cooperation to improve business efficiency and long-term growth. ANA became a strategic shareholder in July 2016 after investing VNĐ2.43 trillion (about US$108 million) for an 8.77% stake. The cooperation has expanded beyond equity into areas including network development, cargo services, maintenance, workforce training, digital transformation, and service quality. ANA cited milestones such as fleet modernization with Airbus A350 and Boeing 787 aircraft and financial restructuring, while Vietnam Airlines Chairman Đặng Ngọc Hòa said the relationship has strengthened governance and regional competitiveness alongside commercial benefits.