Vietnam Greenlights Sun PhuQuoc Airways, Aiming to Transform Travel to the Country’s Island Paradise

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Vietnam has officially approved the launch of a brand-new airline, Sun PhuQuoc Airways (SPA)—a bold move by Sun Group that promises to reshape travel to one of the country’s top tourism hotspots.

The new carrier is set to begin commercial operations as early as Q4 of this year, with ambitions to expand rapidly over the next decade.

By 2030, Sun PhuQuoc Airways plans to operate a fleet of 31 aircraft, backed by a nearly $100 million investment, according to a statement released by parent company Sun Group on May 21.

Connecting the World to Phu Quoc—and Beyond

While the airline’s primary focus will be on boosting international arrivals to Phu Quoc, a stunning island destination known for its turquoise waters, luxury resorts, and vibrant nightlife, SPA’s ambitions go far beyond the shoreline. The airline also aims to connect passengers to Vietnam’s major business and tourism hubs, as well as key destinations worldwide.

“With Sun PhuQuoc Airways, we hope to make Phu Quoc not just a destination, but a gateway,” Sun Group said in its announcement. The launch aligns with the company’s long-term vision of positioning Phu Quoc as a premier international tourism and investment hub.

Riding Vietnam’s Aviation Boom

Vietnam’s aviation industry has been soaring in recent years, fueled by a growing middle class and surging demand for both domestic and international travel. The country’s skies are currently dominated by Vietnam Airlines and low-cost carrier Vietjet, with emerging players like Bamboo Airways and Vietravel Airlines adding competitive momentum.

Now, with the arrival of Sun PhuQuoc Airways, the competition is set to heat up—especially in the premium tourism segment, where Sun Group already has a strong foothold through its expansive network of luxury resorts, theme parks, and real estate developments.

A Strategic Move by Sun Group

For Sun Group—one of Vietnam’s most influential private conglomerates—launching an airline is a natural extension of its ecosystem. The group’s portfolio already includes some of the country’s top leisure destinations, including Sun World Ba Na Hills, Sun Premier Village, and the iconic Hon Thom cable car in Phu Quoc.

By entering the aviation sector, Sun Group not only strengthens its control over the tourist journey from start to finish but also bets big on the sustained growth of Vietnam’s travel industry.

With flights set to take off later this year, travelers and industry insiders alike will be watching closely to see how Sun PhuQuoc Airways takes flight—literally and figuratively—in one of Asia’s most dynamic travel markets.

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