Phu Quoc International Airport has set a new record by receiving 46 international flights in a single day, marking the highest number ever recorded. This influx brought thousands of visitors to the island, surpassing the previous peak of 40 international flights per day recorded in 2025.
South Korea emerged as the leading contributor, with 13 flights arriving from cities such as Incheon, Busan, and Cheongju. Over the first two days of January, more than 4,500 passengers arrived from South Korea alone. Kazakhstan followed with six flights on January 3, while Hong Kong and Thailand contributed five and four flights, respectively.
Surge in Flight Volumes and Visitor Numbers
The increase in international flights is part of a broader trend. From January 1 to 4, Phu Quoc International Airport was set to welcome a total of 288 flights, reflecting a 27% year-on-year increase. Of these, 147 were international services, averaging about 40 international flights per day—a 23% increase compared with the same period last year.
This surge in arrivals coincided with a series of large-scale events and entertainment programs held across Phu Quoc to celebrate the New Year. The festivities included countdown celebrations, fireworks displays, beach music events, and a variety of recreational and resort offerings, all of which heightened visitor demand during the holiday period.
Impact on Local Tourism and Accommodation
The influx of tourists has significantly impacted local businesses, particularly accommodation facilities. According to a recent survey, many hotels and resorts on the island were fully booked over the New Year holiday. Visitor numbers also surged at local amusement parks. A representative from the management unit at Sunset Town reported a 76% increase in visitor traffic compared with the same period last year. Restaurants in the area experienced high demand, often being fully booked, especially during the evenings.
“Visitor traffic during the New Year holiday increased by 76% compared with the same period last year,” said a representative of Sunset Town’s management unit.
Challenges and Future Prospects
While the record-breaking number of arrivals has been a boon for local tourism, it has also put pressure on accommodation capacity. Some international tourists reported issues with room availability despite having made advance payments, citing disputes with accommodation providers.
Looking ahead, the island’s tourism sector may need to address these challenges to sustain growth. Experts suggest that infrastructure development and better coordination with hospitality services could mitigate such issues in the future. The local government is reportedly considering measures to enhance the island’s capacity to handle increased tourist traffic, ensuring a seamless experience for visitors.
As Phu Quoc continues to gain popularity as a travel destination, the record-breaking day at the airport underscores the island’s growing appeal and the potential for further growth in international tourism.
