Phu Quoc International Airport has achieved a remarkable milestone, recording the highest number of international flight arrivals in a single day. On January 3, the airport welcomed 46 international flights, surpassing the previous record of 40 flights set in 2025. This influx brought thousands of visitors to the picturesque island, marking a significant boost in tourism activity.
South Korea emerged as the leading contributor to this surge, with 13 flights arriving from major cities such as Incheon, Busan, and Cheongju. Over the first two days of the year, more than 4,500 passengers from South Korea landed on the island. Meanwhile, Kazakhstan ranked second with six flights on January 3, followed by Hong Kong with five and Thailand with four.
Rising Flight Volumes and Tourism Boom
The increase in international flights is part of a broader trend of rising flight volumes. From January 1 to 4, Phu Quoc International Airport was set to handle a total of 288 flights, representing a 27% increase compared to the same period last year. International services accounted for 147 of these flights, averaging about 40 international flights per day, which is a 23% rise from the previous year.
This development follows a series of large-scale events and entertainment programs held across Phu Quoc to celebrate the New Year. Attractions such as countdown celebrations, fireworks displays, beach music events, and various recreational and resort offerings significantly boosted visitor demand during the holiday period.
Impact on Local Economy and Infrastructure
The influx of tourists has had a noticeable impact on local businesses and infrastructure. According to a survey, many accommodation facilities on the island were fully booked over the New Year holiday. Visitor numbers also surged at local amusement parks. A representative from Sunset Town’s management reported a 76% increase in visitor traffic during the New Year holiday compared to the same period last year. Restaurants in the area frequently reached full capacity, especially during evening hours.
“Visitor traffic during the New Year holiday increased by 76% compared with the same period last year,” said a representative from Sunset Town.
However, the high volume of arrivals has also highlighted challenges in local accommodation capacity. Some international tourists have reported issues with room availability despite having paid in advance, citing disputes with accommodation providers.
Historical Context and Future Implications
The record-setting day at Phu Quoc International Airport underscores the island’s growing appeal as a tourist destination. Historically, Phu Quoc has been a popular spot for both domestic and international tourists, known for its pristine beaches and vibrant culture. The recent surge in visitor numbers aligns with Vietnam’s broader efforts to promote tourism as a key economic driver.
Experts suggest that the continued growth in tourism could lead to further investments in infrastructure and hospitality services on the island. However, they also caution about the need for sustainable development to ensure that the island’s natural beauty and resources are preserved for future generations.
“The move represents a significant opportunity for economic growth, but it must be balanced with environmental conservation efforts,” noted a tourism industry analyst.
Looking Ahead
As Phu Quoc continues to attract more international visitors, local authorities and businesses are likely to explore ways to enhance the island’s capacity to accommodate and entertain tourists. This may include expanding airport facilities, increasing the number of available accommodations, and diversifying the range of attractions and activities offered.
The record-breaking day at Phu Quoc International Airport is a testament to the island’s burgeoning status as a global tourist hotspot. As the tourism sector continues to recover and grow, Phu Quoc is poised to play a pivotal role in Vietnam’s economic landscape.
