The first A350 XWB for Vietnam Airlines has completed its first flight in Toulouse on Monday bearing the airline’s blue and gold lotus livery. The aircraft will now enter the final phase of production, including cabin completion, as well as further ground and flight tests. The aircraft, which will be leased from AerCap, is scheduled for delivery in the middle of the year.

Vietnam Airlines will become the first Asian airline to fly the A350 XWB and the second operator in the world. Vietnam Airlines will acquire 14 A350 XWBs, including 10 on order from Airbus and four under lease agreements. The carrier will operate its A350 XWB fleet on long haul routes, beginning with services between Hanoi and Paris.