This illustrative image shows the modern automated check-in area at Phu Quoc International Airport in Phu Quoc Special Zone, An Giang Province, southern Vietnam. Photo: HOK
The move comes three months after Sun Airport Corporation, a subsidiary of Sun Group, officially took over operations from Airports Corporation of Vietnam on January 1, 2026.
The airport handled more than 2.27 million passengers in the first quarter of 2026, up 147 percent year on year, while aircraft movements rose 153 percent to nearly 13,800, the company said.
Growth was recorded across both segments, with international passengers reaching around 1.2 million and domestic travelers exceeding 1.07 million.
South Korea remained the largest international source market, while the Ho Chi Minh City to Phu Quoc route continued to serve as the main domestic corridor.
Despite the surge, the airport has operated smoothly without signs of congestion.
To improve the experience for a growing number of passengers, Sun Airport Corporation plans to roll out a range of technology solutions, including expanded WiFi coverage, stronger 4G and 5G connectivity, upgraded flight information displays and biometric check-in.
Notably, a pilot program allowing passengers to complete flight check-in procedures at hotels will be launched from April 17.
Under the model, travelers can check in, drop off baggage and receive boarding passes at their hotels before heading directly to the airport, with checked luggage transported separately and processed under standard security procedures.
In the initial phase, the service will be available at La Festa Phu Quoc, Curio Collection by Hilton and New World Phu Quoc Resort for passengers flying with Sun PhuQuoc Airways.
Guests staying in areas such as Hoang Hon (Sunset) Town and Khem Beach will also be able to use the service at these locations.
The model is expected to be expanded in the future, helping reduce processing time at the airport, ease pressure on terminal facilities and provide a more seamless travel experience.
The approach reflects a shift from a traditional transit model to one more closely integrated with tourism destinations, in line with Phu Quoc’s development as a travel hub.
A similar model was introduced in 2020 by Bamboo Airways at the FLC Quy Nhon resort complex, allowing passengers to complete pre-flight procedures before arriving at the airport.
To improve operations, Sun Group has partnered with Changi Airports International, operator of Singapore’s Changi Airport, and SITA, a global aviation technology company.
Automation, biometric solutions and end-to-end self-service systems are being gradually rolled out.
Sun Group also said construction of the US$837 million Phu Quoc airport expansion project is being accelerated to raise capacity to 24 million passengers per year, with potential expansion to 50 million to meet future demand and major events such as the Vietnam-hosted APEC 2027.
