Vietjet and the University of Oxford have unveiled the first results from a pioneering research partnership aimed at charting a practical route to Net Zero emissions in global aviation. The announcement coincided with the launch of the Oxford Pioneer Scholarship Scheme — a new education initiative co-founded by Dr Nguyen Thi Phuong Thao, Chairwoman of Sovico Group and Vietjet Air.
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The collaboration, revealed during Vietnam’s General Secretary To Lam’s official visit to the United Kingdom, highlights strengthening ties between Vietnam and the UK in science, innovation, and higher education. It also aligns with Australia’s growing focus on aviation decarbonisation, as Vietjet continues expanding its services connecting Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Perth with Vietnam.
Led by Professor Myles Allen, Director of Oxford’s Net Zero Centre, the study explores “Geological Balance Fuel” (GBF) — an emerging fuel concept that offsets aviation emissions through the long-term geological storage of carbon dioxide. Early findings indicate that GBF could provide a cost-effective, scalable pathway to Net Zero by mid-century, with the advantage of being compatible with existing global fuel systems.
Dr Nguyen Thi Phuong Thao said the collaboration reflects Vietjet’s commitment to advancing green innovation:
“I deeply value this partnership with the University of Oxford as we work together to connect knowledge, technology, and compassion. Vietjet is committed to partnering with international institutions to build a humane, prosperous, and sustainable future for generations to come.”
The initiative also introduced the Oxford Pioneer Scholarship Scheme, jointly established by Oxford University and Sovico Group. Backed by an initial £17.83 million endowment — including £13.7 million (approx. AUD$27.45m) personally contributed by Dr Thao and £4.13 million (approx. AUD$8.23m) co-funded by Oxford — the program will support outstanding students and researchers, with a special focus on Vietnamese scholars.
University of Oxford Vice-Chancellor Professor Irene Tracey welcomed the partnership, noting it opens new avenues for collaboration in education, research, and innovation.
Together, these initiatives underline Vietjet and Sovico’s long-term vision to promote sustainable aviation while nurturing the next generation of scientific leaders.
