Phu Quoc International Airport to Transform into Next-Generation Self-Service Aviation Hub Ahead of APEC 2027

Apr 22: Phu Quoc International Airport is set to become a next-generation, fully self-service aviation hub as part of a major transformation led by Sun Group in partnership with SITA.

The upgrade comes ahead of the APEC 2027 Forum and aims to position Phu Quoc as a leading aviation and tourism gateway in the Asia-Pacific region. The project includes the development of a new Terminal 2, expected to handle 24 million passengers annually, with long-term scalability to 50 million passengers.

Fully Automated Passenger Experience

Under the project, SITA will deploy an end-to-end suite of smart airport technologies to deliver a seamless, self-service journey. Passengers will be able to check in, select seats, print boarding passes and bag tags, drop luggage, and board flights through automated touchpoints.

Key features include:

• 150 self-service kiosks for check-in and boarding pass issuance
• 100 automated bag-drop units
• 38 dual-lane automated boarding gates
• Biometric-enabled passenger processing through integrated systems

Advanced operational systems such as real-time baggage tracking, airport operational databases, and passenger information display platforms will ensure efficiency, accuracy, and enhanced traveler experience.

The project, which commenced in March 2026, is scheduled for completion and operational launch by July 2027.

Strategic Partnership and Expansion Plans

Commenting on the collaboration, Nguyen Chi Thanh, President of Sun Group, said:

“This partnership reflects our vision of building smarter, more efficient aviation infrastructure. With SITA’s expertise, we aim to deliver seamless and world-class passenger experiences across our airport network.”

Sumesh Patel added:

“Vietnam is one of the fastest-growing aviation markets globally. Through this partnership, we are enabling scalable, future-ready airport operations that will support long-term growth and connectivity.”

Beyond Phu Quoc, Sun Group has designated SITA as a strategic technology partner for its broader airport expansion plans across Vietnam. Future developments include airports in Phan Thiet, Con Dao, and Rach Gia, with a vision to expand to at least five airports over the next five years, each targeting 5-Star Skytrax standards.

Strengthening Vietnam’s Aviation Ecosystem

The upgraded airport will be operated in partnership with Changi Airports International, ensuring globally benchmarked operational standards.

The development also aligns with Sun Group’s broader strategy to integrate aviation with tourism and hospitality infrastructure, including luxury resorts, entertainment hubs, and its airline venture, Sun Phu Quoc Airways.

Having collaborated since 2019, this expanded agreement between Sun Group and SITA marks a significant step in advancing Vietnam’s aviation infrastructure and enhancing its position as a key travel destination in the region.