The Pearl of Phu Quoc: Unveiling a Gateway to a Million Dreams

On June 10th, the People’s Committee of Kien Giang province met with leaders of the Vietnam Airports Corporation (ACV) to discuss the management and operation of airports in the province, including Phu Quoc and Rach Gia airports.

According to the People’s Committee, Phu Quoc International Airport is currently rated 4E and can accommodate wide-body aircraft such as the A350 and B787. The airport has one runway, nine aircraft parking positions (including one for large aircraft), and a capacity to serve approximately 4 million passengers annually. In the 2021-2030 period, the airport is planned to be upgraded to serve 10 million passengers per year, with a vision to reach 18 million by 2050.

Regarding Rach Gia airport, the existing infrastructure is limited, and its capacity has significantly decreased in recent years. In 2022, the airport served over 51,000 passengers, but this number is expected to drop to around 9,500 by 2024. According to the master plan, this airport is designated as a domestic airport with a 4C rating by 2050, serving 1 million passengers annually.

The People’s Committee of Kien Giang proposed that ACV invest in upgrading Rach Gia airport, including the construction of a runway capable of accommodating Airbus 321 aircraft and a terminal with a capacity of 1 million passengers per year. They aim to complete this project before 2027 to serve the APEC conference and the increasing travel demand after the administrative merger.

Mr. Nguyen Thanh Nhan, Chairman of the Provincial People’s Committee of Kien Giang, shared that the province aims to develop Rach Gia airport into a multi-functional aviation hub, strategically connecting Phu Quoc and the entire Mekong Delta region.

Concerning Phu Quoc International Airport, the Provincial People’s Committee has been assigned by the government to lead the expansion project. The province will select capable domestic investors, receive aviation infrastructure management from the Ministry of Construction, and coordinate closely with relevant ministries to implement the project.

The Provincial People’s Committee affirmed its commitment to transparency in investor selection, strict supervision of construction quality and progress, and prevention of any negativity or corruption during the implementation process.

Mr. Vu The Phiet, Chairman of ACV’s Board of Directors, stated that they have completed the inspection of aviation infrastructure assets in Phu Quoc, measured and determined land boundaries, and are ready to coordinate with the province in the expansion process, ensuring uninterrupted airport operations.

“We have established a task force to closely monitor the progress, and we look forward to the Provincial People’s Committee assigning a focal point for coordination. We aim to ensure the project’s timely completion to serve the APEC 2027 agenda,” said Mr. Phiet.