Billionaire Profile
N
Global Rank
#1051

Image: Minh Trong Nguyen. | CC BY 4.0 | via Wikimedia Commons

Nguyen Thi Phuong Thao

CEO, Airlines
VIETNAM
Real-Time Net Worth
$4.125B
Estimated based on Airlines stock value as of April 20, 2026
-0.4% (24h)
Age
55
Source
Airlines
Industry
Diversified
Citizenship
VIETNAM

Biography

Nguyen Thi Phuong Thao is a prominent Vietnamese businesswoman, best known as the founder and CEO of Vietjet Air. Born on June 7, 1970, she became a millionaire at 21 and built a diverse portfolio of businesses. With a current estimated net worth of $4.1 billion, primarily from her stake in Vietjet Air, she is recognized as Vietnam's first self-made woman billionaire and a leading figure in the aviation industry. Her career highlights include transforming Vietjet Air into a major low-cost carrier and expanding its operations across Asia. Thao also holds interests in real estate and banking, showcasing her diversified business acumen.

Fact Checked
Verified by Editorial Team
Live Data
Updated 4/20/2026

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life

Nguyen Thi Phuong Thao was born in Hanoi, Vietnam, on June 7, 1970. She comes from a respected family. Thao showed an interest in becoming wealthy from an early age.

Rise to Success

She began her entrepreneurial journey while studying finance and economics in Moscow. At the age of 21, she had already become a millionaire through trading goods. She founded Vietjet Air in 2011. In February 2017, she became Vietnam's first self-made woman billionaire. She is also the president of Sovico Group and vice president of HDBank.

Key Business Strategies

Thao's key business strategy was launching Vietjet Air as a low-cost carrier. The airline quickly expanded its domestic and international routes. She focused on customer service and making air travel accessible to a broader population. She has also made significant investments in real estate and banking, diversifying her business interests.

Philanthropy

Beyond her business ventures, Thao is involved in philanthropy, supporting various social welfare programs. She emphasizes the importance of women in building a prosperous and inclusive economy, driving humanitarian initiatives in education, cultural preservation and sustainable development.

Career Milestones

1991

Became a Millionaire

Became a millionaire at age 21 through trading.

2011

Founded Vietjet Air

Launched Vietjet Air, Vietnam's first private airline.

2017

First Self-Made Woman Billionaire in Vietnam

Took Vietjet Air public and became Vietnam's first self-made woman billionaire.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Social Welfare

Social Welfare Programs

Undisclosed

Supports women, children, and vulnerable groups.

Education

Educational Initiatives and Scholarships

Undisclosed

Supports education and provides international scholarships.

Business Philosophy & Leadership

Notable Quotes

"I have always aimed big and done big deals. I have never done anything on a small scale."

"Entrepreneurs do more than create wealth. Their responsibility is to generate value for the community."

Leadership Principles

Innovation

Emphasizes innovation to unlock resources.

Technology

Utilizes technology to lead trends.

Growth with Responsibility

Ensures growth goes hand in hand with national interests, culture, and people.

Controversies & Challenges

2012

Bikini Marketing

Vietjet Air was fined for using bikini-clad models in advertising, violating aviation regulations.

2024

Lawsuit over Leased Planes

Lost a lawsuit in London court regarding leased planes.