The preparation work for the 2027 Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit has entered a critical stage, and Phu Quoc Island in Vietnam is writing a new chapter of connectivity between the island and the world with a brand new aviation hub. As an important supporting project of the summit, the expansion project of Fuguo International Airport is not only a comprehensive upgrade of the existing transportation capacity, but also a strategic move by Vietnam to promote this tropical resort to the global stage. This infrastructure reform inspired by the "Phoenix" is transforming Fuguo Island from a regional tourist destination to a world-class aviation gateway radiating to Southeast Asia.

The perfect integration of cultural heritage and modern functionality

The core of the expansion project is the T2 terminal designed by Singapore CPG Airport Consultants. The designer used the Vietnamese cultural symbol of rebirth, nobility, and power, the "Phoenix," as a prototype to shape the terminal building into a dynamic form that spreads its wings and wants to fly. The streamlined roof outlines the outline of the wings that stretch out, and the natural lighting design and open space layout allow the building to combine sculptural beauty with maximizing the functional needs of passenger gathering and transportation. The birth of this new terminal is not only a tribute to traditional Vietnamese culture, but also a highly recognizable image that leaves visitors with their first impression of Phu Quoc Island.

The independent VIP terminal designed by Italian architect Marco Casamonti complements the T2 terminal building. The building, inspired by the design of the 'Sea Eagle', seamlessly integrates with the marine ecology of Fuguo Island. Its simple structural language and delicate material application precisely meet the high-end reception needs. This VIP terminal will serve as an exclusive passage for heads of state and senior delegations during the APEC summit, showcasing Vietnam's hospitality with a space that combines ecological harmony and elegant texture.

Towards a 4E level international aviation hub

With the increasing number of tourists, the original T1 terminal of Fuguo International Airport is struggling with an annual throughput of 4 million passengers. This expansion will expand the total area of the airport to 1050 hectares, fully compliant with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) 4E standard, and can easily accommodate wide body aircraft such as Boeing 747, 787, and Airbus A350. The hardware upgrade goes beyond that: the existing runway has been extended to 3500 meters, a new 3300 meter runway has been built, and the number of apron stands has been expanded to over 100, of which about 45 are specifically designed for wide body aircraft fleets.

Intelligent transformation injects new momentum into airport operation efficiency. The new terminal is equipped with cutting-edge facilities such as remote check-in, self-service baggage check-in, and biometric clearance, greatly reducing passenger clearance time. Its operating model is benchmarked against world-class airports such as Changi Airport in Singapore and Haneda Airport in Japan, achieving a service experience that is in line with international standards.

From Summit Portal to Regional Hub

The timeline of this expansion project is precisely synchronized with the preparation pace of the APEC 2027 summit. At present, the main structure of T2 terminal has completed the pouring of multiple floors, the VIP terminal structure has been fully completed, and the second runway project is steadily progressing. All upgrade projects will be ensured to be put into use before the summit.

According to the plan, by 2027, the annual passenger throughput of Fuguo International Airport will soar to 18-20 million, an increase of nearly 4.5 times compared to the current scale; Looking ahead to 2050, this number is expected to exceed 50 million. Behind this grand blueprint is Vietnam's determination to promote the transformation of Phu Quoc Island from a tourist destination to a dual hub for regional business and tourism. Upon completion of the expansion, this island airport will not only serve as a welcoming hall for the APEC summit, but also become a key node in the Southeast Asian connectivity network, injecting strong aviation power into regional economic development.Editor/Bian Wenjun