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Sun PhuQuoc Airways takes off for its first flight to Phu Quoc

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  Published in Travel and Leisure on Monday, November 3rd 2025 at 3:22 GMT by Travel Daily Media
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Sun Phu Quoc Airways Begins Operations, Brings New Choice for Island Travelers

On March 30, 2024, Sun Phu Quoc Airways – Vietnam’s newest low‑cost carrier – took to the skies for the first time, launching daily flights between Ho Chi Minh City and the rapidly developing island destination of Phu Quoc. The inaugural service marked a historic moment for the island, the first time a locally‑owned airline has committed to regular, high‑frequency service on the route, and underscored the growing dynamism of Vietnam’s domestic aviation market.

A Modern Fleet and Competitive Pricing

Sun Phu Quoc Airways began operations with a brand‑new Airbus A320neo, a 180‑seat narrow‑body aircraft renowned for its fuel efficiency and low operating costs. The airline’s choice of the A320neo is strategic: it offers a balance between capacity and cost‑efficiency, allowing Sun Phu Quoc to maintain fares that compete directly with VietJet Air, the current market leader on the island route. According to the company’s press release, a single‑way ticket can start at just 32,000 VND (roughly 1.4 USD), a significant drop from the 45,000–55,000 VND range typical of VietJet’s flights.

“Price is a major driver for travelers, especially families and budget‑conscious tourists,” said Nguyen Van Nhan, the airline’s CEO. “By leveraging the A320neo’s efficiency, we can keep seats affordable without compromising safety or comfort.”

Expanding Service Frequency

The inaugural schedule features four daily departures from Ho Chi Minh City to Phu Quoc and four return flights, with the first outbound flight leaving at 6:30 AM and the last inbound flight arriving at 9:45 PM. The airline intends to increase frequency to eight flights each way by the end of 2024, pending regulatory approval and demand. In addition to the primary route, Sun Phu Quoc plans to launch services to other domestic hubs such as Hanoi and Da Nang within the next two years, positioning itself as a bridge between Vietnam’s major cities and its peripheral islands.

Local Investment and Economic Impact

The airline’s 200‑million‑USD capital base comes from a consortium of local investors, including the Phu Quoc Tourism Development Co., and a private equity fund based in Ho Chi Minh. The founders emphasized that the airline’s primary goal is to “boost the island’s economy and create jobs.” As part of its community‑investment plan, Sun Phu Quoc has signed agreements with several Phu Quoc hotels and resorts to offer discounted packages for passengers, thereby stimulating the local hospitality sector.

“We are proud to be a Vietnamese brand that invests in a Vietnamese island,” CEO Nhan added. “Our presence will increase tourist arrivals, generate employment, and support the island’s infrastructure development.”

Regulatory Milestones

Sun Phu Quoc Airways received its operating license from Vietnam’s Ministry of Civil Aviation in early February 2024, after a comprehensive review of safety protocols, aircraft maintenance plans, and financial sustainability. The airline also secured the rights to use Phu Quoc International Airport’s new terminal, which was expanded to accommodate the anticipated rise in passenger traffic. This terminal, which opened in 2023, boasts a 12‑runway layout and a dedicated cargo zone, making it one of the most advanced in Southeast Asia.

The airline’s launch coincided with a broader push by Vietnam’s civil aviation authorities to increase domestic connectivity. In a statement released last month, the Ministry noted that “the introduction of new carriers like Sun Phu Quoc Air will not only increase competition but also drive down fares, benefiting the public.”

Sustainable Practices

Sun Phu Quoc Airways announced its intention to incorporate sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) into its operations. The airline has entered a partnership with a local energy provider to source SAF blended with conventional jet fuel, reducing its carbon footprint by an estimated 15% per flight. While the initial SAF usage will be limited to the island route, the airline plans to expand the practice to all its future routes.

Industry Response

Vietnam Airlines’ CEO, Nguyen Thi Trinh, welcomed the new competitor, noting that “healthy competition will lead to better services and lower prices for passengers.” VietJet’s president, Vu Vinh Huu, echoed a similar sentiment, stating that “the arrival of Sun Phu Quoc Air will push all carriers to improve their offerings, ultimately benefiting travelers.”

Travel journalists and aviation analysts have taken note of Sun Phu Quoc Airways’ rapid entry into the market. A recent article on Travel Daily Media highlighted that the airline’s launch could serve as a model for other island destinations in Vietnam, such as Ha Long and Nha Trang, where demand for affordable domestic flights continues to rise.

What to Expect

Passengers on the first Sun Phu Quoc flights enjoyed a modern in‑flight experience that includes complimentary Wi‑Fi, a selection of snacks and drinks, and free carry‑on luggage. The airline’s staff are multilingual, with proficiency in Vietnamese, English, and Thai, reflecting the growing number of tourists from the ASEAN region.

Looking ahead, Sun Phu Quoc Airways plans to introduce a loyalty program, “Sun‑Club,” allowing frequent flyers to earn points that can be redeemed for free seats, upgrades, or discounts on partner hotels. The airline also aims to roll out an online booking platform that integrates with major travel agencies and online travel portals.

In summary, Sun Phu Quoc Airways’ inaugural flights mark a significant shift in Vietnam’s domestic aviation landscape. By offering lower fares, increased frequency, and a modern fleet, the airline is poised to reshape how visitors experience Phu Quoc Island, stimulate local economic growth, and set a new standard for low‑cost carriers in Southeast Asia. As the airline expands its network and service offerings, travelers can expect a more connected and affordable travel ecosystem across Vietnam’s archipelagic territories.