Amidst the strong transformation wave of Phu Quoc, aviation infrastructure is becoming the strategic leverage determining the breakthrough speed of the Pearl Island. Phu Quoc International Airport Expansion Project therefore, it is not just a story of expanding scale, but a qualitative shift in operational quality, technological level, and international operating standards.
From terminal design, apron to smart operating models, Phu Quoc airport is being shaped into a new generation 'smart airport' - where technology plays a central role in enhancing operational capacity, optimizing passenger experience, and preparing for global events such as APEC 2027 .
Perspective of the Phu Quoc International Airport project.
1. All information about the Phu Quoc International Airport Expansion Project
The Phu Quoc International Airport Expansion Investment Project was approved for investment policy on June 19, 2025, in which Sun Group Sun Airport Joint Stock Company – Sun Group Corporation was assigned as the investor under the business investment form. This is one of the largest-scale aviation infrastructure projects ever implemented on Pearl Island.
1.1. Airport classification and wide-body aircraft reception capability
According to the approved plan, Phu Quoc International Airport after expansion will reach level 4E according to ICAO standards. Accordingly, the airport will not only be eligible to receive modern wide-body aircraft such as Boeing 747, Boeing 787, or Airbus A350, effectively serving long-haul international routes, but also ensure comprehensive 4E level standards in terms of capacity, operational capability, supporting infrastructure… creating a complete airport ecosystem.
The project is being implemented on a total area of about 1,050 hectares, with a long-term development orientation and flexible expansion capabilities in the future. In Phase 1, from 2027, the airport is expected to reach a capacity of 20 million passengers per year. In Phase 2, the capacity will be increased to 50 million passengers per year, placing Phu Quoc among the airports with the largest operating scale in Vietnam and the region.
The terminal design is inspired by the image of the Phoenix, a bird symbolizing power and noble beauty.
1.2. Runway and Apron Infrastructure
The core technical infrastructure of the airport is synchronously invested to meet high-intensity operation requirements. The existing Runway 1 will be expanded to 3,500 m, while Runway 2 will be newly built with a length of 3,300 m.
The apron system is upgraded to over 120 aircraft parking positions, capable of simultaneously accommodating multiple wide-body aircraft operating international routes. This infrastructure configuration not only helps reduce load during peak hours but also creates a foundation for integrating automated operation solutions and advanced management technologies in the long term.
1.3. Architectural Signature at Terminal T2 and VIP Terminal
Passenger Terminal T2
Terminal T2 is designed by CPG Consultants (Singapore) and Artelia Airport (France) – two world-leading firms in the field of aviation architecture and engineering. Inspired by the image of the Fire Phoenix, Terminal T2 not only meets modern technical standards but also carries symbolic value for the rebirth and aspiration for development of Phu Quoc in a new development phase.
Model of the world's leading modern passenger terminal. Photo: Sun Group
VIP Terminal
The VIP terminal has a construction area of 6,000 m², designed by Italian architect Marco Casamonti. The work is inspired by the sea eagle, symbolizing freedom, agility, and the harmonious relationship between architecture and nature. Besides its aesthetic imprint, the VIP terminal is equipped with a modern technical system, capable of serving special flights of up to 300 people, playing an important role in welcoming heads of state and high-level events, especially APEC 2027.
> > > See more: What's special about APEC 2027 compared to previous APEC events in Vietnam?
2. Changi Airport Group - Operator Consultant for Phu Quoc International Airport
According to the approved plan, Changi Airport Group will be the operator of Phu Quoc International Airport after the expansion project is completed. This is the 'operational brain' behind Changi Airport (Singapore) – which has been ranked the best airport in the world for many consecutive years.
Not only does it possess outstanding operational capabilities, Changi Airport Group is also renowned for its ability to apply advanced aviation technology and optimize passenger experience. Currently, the group is involved in managing, consulting, and operating many international airports in Asia, the Middle East, and Europe, affirming its global position in the airport operations sector.
3. What technology does Changi Airport Group bring to Phu Quoc?
The biggest highlight in the Phu Quoc airport operating model is the smart aviation technology ecosystem that Changi Airport Group brings. Notably, the TAM – Total Airport Management model, allows for the management and coordination of all airport operations on a unified platform, from flight operations, ground handling, to passenger services.
Phu Quoc International Airport applies many advanced technologies.
In addition, there is a contactless biometric system, which helps passengers' journeys flow seamlessly from check-in, screening to boarding; a modern ICS baggage handling system; advanced security screening technology from Smiths Detection (Germany); along with automated apron solutions, underground refueling, and a new generation of jet bridges.
Thanks to the synchronous integration of these technologies, the check-in time for each passenger is expected to be only 15–20 seconds, bringing Phu Quoc Airport close to the operational standards of the world's leading airports.
Modern technology helps passengers minimize wasted waiting time and facilitates check-in procedures.
The selection of Changi Airport Group is not only operationally significant but also a strategic move to upgrade the technology and airport management standards in Vietnam. Changi's global reputation and experience will help Phu Quoc Airport increase its attractiveness to major airlines, especially for long-haul international routes.
More importantly, with a modern technology platform, Phu Quoc International Airport will not only serve travel needs but also become a key infrastructure for high-end tourism, MICE, and international events, contributing to enhancing Vietnam's position on the regional aviation map.
