Sun PhuQuoc Airways to Launch Exciting International Routes from South Korea and Taiwan in 2026 – A Game Changer for Vietnam’s Tourism!

Published on December 4, 2025

Sun PhuQuoc Airways has officially received an expanded Air Operator Certificate (AOC) from the Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam, enabling the airline to begin operating international commercial flights. This achievement marks a significant milestone in the airline’s journey, transitioning from a domestic carrier to one with international capabilities. With new aircraft added to its fleet and General Sales Agent (GSA) networks established in key markets, the airline is well-positioned to launch its international routes in 2026, further strengthening Phu Quoc’s role as a regional tourism and aviation hub.

Approval for International Flight Operations

On November 25, 2025, Sun PhuQuoc Airways was granted the expanded AOC, allowing it to operate flights to international destinations within the Middle East and Asia regions. This approval came after a thorough evaluation process by the Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam, ensuring that the airline meets the highest safety standards. The addition of this AOC is a pivotal moment for Sun PhuQuoc Airways, as it signifies the airline’s ability to operate beyond domestic routes and tap into the rapidly growing international tourism market.

This certification opens the doors for Sun PhuQuoc Airways to expand its services and serve as a key player in connecting Vietnam with the international travel community. With the rise in tourism to Phu Quoc, this development aligns with the airline’s strategy to serve as a bridge between Phu Quoc and various global destinations.

Strategic Route Launches Set for 2026

With the expanded AOC in place, Sun PhuQuoc Airways is preparing to launch its first international routes in March 2026. The airline will begin by offering direct flights between Seoul and Phu Quoc, as well as between Taipei and Phu Quoc. These routes will be followed by additional services connecting Phu Quoc with Busan in September 2026 and Kaohsiung in October 2026.

These key international markets were selected due to the strong growth in tourist arrivals to Phu Quoc in recent years. By opening direct flights to these major hubs in Northeast Asia, Sun PhuQuoc Airways aims to meet the increasing demand for travel between Phu Quoc and some of the largest tourism markets in the region. This strategic move is expected to enhance the connectivity of Phu Quoc, attracting even more international tourists to the island.

Establishing General Sales Agents for Market Expansion

To ensure the success of these new routes, Sun PhuQuoc Airways has appointed experienced General Sales Agents (GSAs) in both South Korea and Taiwan. These partnerships are crucial for the effective rollout of the international flights. Pacific Air Agency (PAA), one of the Republic of Korea’s most trusted and experienced GSAs, will handle the airline’s sales, distribution, and market development in South Korea.

In Taiwan, Hongyi Travel Service, a renowned outbound travel operator with decades of experience, will represent Sun PhuQuoc Airways. Hongyi has been instrumental in promoting travel from Taiwan to Vietnam since the 1990s and will play a vital role in connecting the airline to Taiwan’s growing outbound travel market. These GSAs will help Sun PhuQuoc Airways to create tailored travel products, conduct targeted marketing campaigns, and develop distribution networks ahead of the route launches.

The appointment of these GSAs ensures that Sun PhuQuoc Airways can effectively engage with local markets, build strong relationships with customers, and offer a seamless travel experience. By establishing these partnerships well in advance, the airline is setting the stage for a successful international launch.

Fleet Expansion to Meet Growing Demand

As part of its broader expansion strategy, Sun PhuQuoc Airways continues to enhance its fleet to accommodate rising travel demand. On November 24, 2025, the airline introduced its fourth aircraft, an Airbus A321NX, into commercial service. This addition was aimed at ensuring the airline has enough capacity to meet the peak season demand for domestic flights while preparing for international routes in 2026.

Moreover, the airline is expecting to receive its fifth aircraft in December 2025, which will further bolster its capacity for both domestic and international operations. The ongoing fleet expansion ensures that Sun PhuQuoc Airways is ready to handle increased passenger traffic and deliver high-quality service on both domestic and international flights.

Phu Quoc’s Strategic Role in Regional Tourism

The airline’s expansion into international markets is also in line with Phu Quoc’s rapid development as a regional tourism and aviation hub. The island has seen significant growth in tourism over the past few years and is set to host the APEC 2027 summit, further boosting its global profile. With major infrastructure and urban development projects underway in preparation for this prestigious event, Sun PhuQuoc Airways’ expansion will contribute to enhancing the island’s competitiveness as a prime tourism destination.

By providing direct connections to Northeast Asia’s key tourism markets, the airline is reinforcing Phu Quoc’s standing as an attractive destination for international travelers. The seamless integration of air travel with Phu Quoc’s resorts, entertainment, dining, and leisure offerings will create a comprehensive and attractive tourism experience for visitors.

A Bright Future for Sun PhuQuoc Airways

The granting of the expanded AOC, the appointment of GSAs in South Korea and Taiwan, and the expansion of its fleet represent a series of key milestones for Sun PhuQuoc Airways. These steps are designed to strengthen the airline’s position in the rapidly growing international tourism market, as well as bolster Phu Quoc’s status as a tourism and aviation hub in Southeast Asia. The upcoming launch of international routes will not only connect Vietnam with major tourism markets but will also contribute to Phu Quoc’s development as an integrated destination for leisure and business travel alike.

As Sun PhuQuoc Airways moves forward with its international expansion, it is poised to play a pivotal role in enhancing Vietnam’s tourism infrastructure, supporting economic growth, and offering travelers greater access to one of the most exciting emerging destinations in the region.