Sun PhuQuoc Airways expands Thailand push

Vietnam's newest airline, Sun PhuQuoc Airways, is ramping up its presence in Thailand as part of an ambitious international expansion strategy. The carrier, owned by Vietnamese conglomerate Sun Group, plans to launch daily flights between Bangkok and Phu Quoc Island next month, making Thailand its sixth international destination after Taipei, Seoul, Hong Kong, Singapore, and Chengdu.

La Vinh Nam, the airline's deputy director of sales, made the announcement during a route-launching ceremony in Bangkok. He described Thailand as a key tourism partner rather than a competitor, highlighting the opportunity to serve not only Thai travellers heading to Phu Quoc, but also international passengers connecting through Bangkok from markets including India, the Middle East, Europe, and Southeast Asia.

Sun PhuQuoc Airways began operations late last year with its main hub at Phu Quoc airport. The airline is positioning itself as a full-service carrier in a market currently dominated by low-cost airlines on the Bangkok-Phu Quoc route, with the view that Phu Quoc is evolving into a higher-end tourism destination suited to premium services.

The airline's growth targets are substantial. By the end of this year, it expects to operate 28 narrow-body aircraft and four Airbus A330 widebody jets, with the latter being deployed on long-haul routes including Russia and Kazakhstan. The carrier aims to grow its fleet to 100 aircraft by 2030 and over 200 by 2035. It has also signed an agreement to purchase 40 Boeing 787 Dreamliners, with deliveries expected from 2031.

Phu Quoc itself is undergoing significant development. Its airport is being expanded with a long-term goal of handling up to 50 million passengers annually, and the island is set to host the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in 2027, driving major infrastructure investment.

Sun Group operates luxury hotels and tourism attractions on the island, including Sunset Town, and offers airport check-in services at selected hotels.

For those living, working, or investing in Thailand, increased aviation connectivity between Bangkok and regional destinations like Phu Quoc can open up new business and travel opportunities worth monitoring. If you have questions about cross-border business structures, investment planning, or legal matters related to operating in Thailand, SLF Legal is here to help.