Vietnam Airlines’ first A350 XWB has completed its first test flight, dressed in the carrier’s distinctive 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 is scheduled for delivery this summer.

Vietnam Airlines will become the first Asian airline to fly the A350 XWB, and only the second operator in the world.

The airline will acquire a total of 14 A350 XWBs, including ten on order from Airbus and four under lease agreements.

The aircraft will be flown on premium long-haul routes, beginning with services between Hanoi and Paris, France. www.vietnamairlines.com