Official: Vietnamese Conglomerate Takes Over Iconic National Landmark Airport at VVIP 2027 Event

Transfer of Phu Quoc Airport Infrastructure to Sun Group, Preparing for APEC 2027

The People’s Committee of An Giang Province, Airports Corporation of Vietnam (ACV), Southern Airports Authority, and Sun Group’s Sun Airport Services Company (SAC) have agreed on the transfer of all aviation infrastructure currently managed by ACV at Phu Quoc International Airport. This marks a crucial legal step, paving the way for the airport expansion project to enter the construction phase.

Under the agreement, ACV will transfer all assets at the airport in their current state, including runways, taxiways, service roads, security and emergency systems, flight operation equipment, and related infrastructure. The An Giang People’s Committee will coordinate, receive assets from ACV, and immediately transfer them to SAC under a special mechanism guided by the Ministry of Finance, ensuring a swift and uninterrupted process.

SAC will cover the remaining value of the assets, based on ACV’s appraisal. The process involves three steps: ACV determines the asset value; the People’s Committee submits the request to SAC within three days; and SAC completes financial support to ACV within ten days. ACV will also hand over all technical, legal, and related documents within ten days.

During the transition, ACV will continue operating the airport to ensure safe and seamless flight operations. Only after SAC completes asset reception and meets all industry requirements will full airport operation rights be transferred to the new investor.

This agreement is seen as a pivotal step to accelerate the Phu Quoc Airport expansion project. On June 19, the Kien Giang People’s Committee designated SAC as the project investor, aiming to increase the airport’s capacity to 20 million passengers annually—one of five projects on track within the 21 priority projects for APEC 2027.

Following the transfer, SAC and relevant agencies will immediately implement key components: constructing Terminal 2, a new runway, expanding apron capacity, and developing auxiliary systems, as directed during the November 14 government meeting.

Finalizing the transfer mechanism between ACV, An Giang People’s Committee, and SAC not only clarifies legal responsibilities but also propels the Phu Quoc Airport expansion. The project is expected to drive significant international tourism growth, support APEC 2027, and boost the island’s economic development.

According to Sun Group, after completing the handover, SAC and relevant agencies will urgently execute key components, including Terminal 2, a new runway, apron expansion, and auxiliary systems, as per the government’s November 14 directive.

The project will be implemented through direct investment, with a total capital of VND 21,998 billion, divided into two phases: 2025–2027 and 2027–2030.

Phu Quoc Airport: A National Symbol at APEC 2027

Phu Quoc, Vietnam’s “pearl island,” is undergoing a transformative phase with strategic infrastructure projects, particularly in aviation and urban development, to host the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) 2027 forum.

The expansion of Phu Quoc International Airport is a centerpiece, envisioned as a “national symbol” for Vietnam’s most significant international event in 2027.

Upon completion, the airport will span over 1,050 hectares, meeting ICAO’s 4E standards. This enables the handling of wide-body aircraft like Boeing 787, 747, and Airbus A350—key for intercontinental routes.

By APEC 2027, the airport’s capacity is projected to surge to 18 million passengers annually, 4.5 times current levels. This will sustain tourism growth and accommodate rising international visitors during the event. Long-term goals aim for 50 million passengers and 50,000 tons of cargo by 2050.

A key feature is the dual-runway system. The existing runway will extend to 3,500 meters, and a new 3,300-meter runway will be added, supporting long-haul flights. The apron will expand to over 100 positions, including 45 for wide-body aircraft, equipped with modern systems for international and domestic operations.

Beyond scale, the new airport symbolizes architectural and technological excellence. The main terminal, inspired by the phoenix, represents power and rebirth. Designed by Singapore’s CPG Corporation and architect Steven Thor, it mirrors notable Asian airports like Hangzhou’s Terminal 2 and Shenzhen’s transport hub.

Cutting-edge technology will align with global leaders like Changi, Haneda, and Beijing airports. Passengers will experience remote check-in, biometric identification, and automated baggage handling, reducing processing times to 15–30 seconds per person.

Additionally, a VIP terminal designed by Italian architect Marco Casamonti, inspired by the sea eagle, will serve as a unique architectural landmark and host up to 300 VIP guests from state flights.

With a two-year completion target, the project is progressing rapidly. Beyond infrastructure, the new airport symbolizes Vietnam’s integration and economic expansion aspirations.

Phu Quoc Airport is poised to become a gateway, elevating the island’s global tourism status and establishing it as a strategic Asia-Pacific destination.