Sun Group and Changi Airports International signed a strategic agreement on March 21 to jointly manage Phu Quoc International Airport. This collaboration will implement the “airport destination” model, enhancing aviation and retail experiences. The expansion project aims to handle up to 50 million passengers annually, promoting Phu Quoc as a key international destination.
Sun Group and Singapore-based Changi Airports International (CAI) have signed a strategic agreement to jointly manage Phu Quoc International Airport, aiming to introduce the “airport destination” model in Vietnam.
Under the agreement, signed on March 21, CAI – a member of Changi Airport Group – will be involved throughout the airport’s full development lifecycle. Its role spans design advisory, development of operational frameworks through a concept of operations (CONOPS), operational readiness, system implementation, and long-term management and performance optimization.
CAI will also support the expansion of international flight networks by collaborating with airlines to enhance connectivity. In parallel, the partnership will develop non-aeronautical services, including retail, food and beverage, and duty-free offerings, aligning operations with internationally recognized Changi Airport standards.
The “airport destination” model repositions airports beyond transport infrastructure into integrated lifestyle spaces, combining travel with retail, dining, entertainment, and cultural experiences. This concept has been successfully implemented at Singapore Changi Airport – one of the world’s most awarded airports – and across more than 60 airports globally, including those in Brazil, China, Japan, and the Philippines.
The agreement comes as Phu Quoc prepares for APEC 2027 and anticipates sustained growth in tourism and aviation demand.
Sun Group is currently advancing a major expansion plan for Phu Quoc International Airport, which spans over 1,050 hectares and meets ICAO 4E standards. Key upgrades include the construction of a second runway, a new Terminal 2, a VIP terminal, and expanded aircraft aprons and supporting infrastructure.
Upon completion, the airport is expected to handle up to 24 million passengers annually, with long-term capacity projected to reach 50 million passengers.
Terminal 2, a central component of the expansion, is designed with inspiration from the mythical phoenix and is being developed in collaboration with international consultants including CPG Consultants and Artelia Airport. The terminal is expected to incorporate advanced technologies such as total airport management systems, biometric passenger processing, and next-generation baggage handling systems.
Once operational, the airport will be integrated into Sun Group’s broader aviation and tourism ecosystem in Phu Quoc, encompassing airline services, resorts, entertainment complexes, and live experiences.
According to CAI CEO Eugene Gan, the company sees strong potential in Phu Quoc as an emerging international destination and expects the partnership to contribute to building a competitive, world-class airport experience.
The agreement also aligns with Sun Group’s long-term strategy to develop an integrated aviation-tourism model, which may be extended to future airport projects, including Phan Thiet, as well as planned developments in Con Dao and Rach Gia.
Australian Hospitality Alumni Network Vietnam 