Phu Quoc Airport: What to know to get the best trip ever in 2024

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Phu Quoc Airport is the first destination in your itinerary to the pearl island. It is also likened to the connection point for your trip to other places in Vietnam or Asian countries. To know more about it, don’t ignore this informative article! It will help you be well-prepared for your approaching vacation in Phu Quoc.

1. About Phu Quoc International Airport

Phu Quoc Airport is officially named Phu Quoc International Airport with the airport code of PQC. This is the third international airport that was built in the South of Vietnam. It is located in the Southern area of ​​Phu Quoc Island, in Duong To Commune, Phu Quoc City, Kien Giang Province, thus making it an ideal choice for those who want to pay a visit to the pearl island.

The airport was completed in November 2012, and started operating the first flights in December of the same year with modern aviation technology and infrastructure. Thanks to this feature, it can receive a great number of large aircrafts such as Boeing 777, Boeing 747-400 or equivalent.

Since being put into operation until now, Phu Quoc Airport has always maintained a high and stable growth rate, becoming a trade gateway between Phu Quoc Island and many domestic and international provinces. Its commercial flights have made a very important contribution to the economic, social and tourism development of the pearl island, as well as protecting the sovereignty of the sea and islands in the South of Vietnam.

Phu Quoc Airport from above(Source: Collected)

2. How to get from Phu Quoc Airport to the island center?

Traveling from Phu Quoc International Airport to the island center typically takes about 30-40 minutes, depending on the mode of transportation and the route you choose. The main options include buses, taxis, airport shuttle services, motorbike rentals, and motorbike taxis, each offering different levels of convenience, cost, and flexibility.

2.1. Bus

Buses are the most affordable option for traveling from the airport to the island center. The cost ranges from 15,000 to 40,000 VND per trip. However, this mode of transport takes longer because buses make frequent stops to pick up and drop off passengers along the way. If you are not in a rush and want to save money, buses offer a cost-effective way to travel.

Below are the common bus routes from Phu Quoc Airport:

Free VinBus runs from Phu Quoc Airport to Phu Quoc United Center, offering an economical and enjoyable transfer

Taxis are convenient and quick, especially with luggage. The fare to Duong Dong ward is 180,000 to 220,000 VND per trip. Major taxi companies include Xanh SM, Mai Linh, Vinasun, Saigon Taxi, and Phu Quoc Taxi. You can also book XanhSM, a green taxi-hailing service, for ease.

2.3. Airport shuttle services

Many airlines and resorts offer shuttle services for a smooth transfer. For example, Vinpearl Phu Quoc hotels provide a private car service that ensures a comfortable and private journey from the airport to the resort. These services are pre-arranged, offering a hassle-free start to your trip. The vehicles are usually well-maintained, and the drivers are professional, ensuring a comfortable ride.

2.4. Motorbike rental

Renting a motorbike provides freedom and flexibility. The cost ranges from 100,000 to 180,000 VND per day. Many rental services deliver the bike to the airport. This option is ideal for those traveling light and wanting to explore at their own pace.

You can rent a motorbike to get around Phu Quoc (Source: Collected)

2.5. Motorbike taxi 

Motorbike taxis, or “xe ôm,” are available at the outdoor parking area to the right of the airport gate. The fare to Duong Dong ward is about 60,000 to 70,000 VND per trip. This is a quick option for solo travelers or those who prefer a more local experience. Remember to negotiate the price beforehand.

Read more: How to get to Phu Quoc: A quick guide to traveling by airway & waterway

3. Flights at Phu Quoc International Airport

Domestic flights

Domestic flights to Phu Quoc are currently available with three different routes. There are three airlines operating flights to Phu Quoc with a frequency of up to 18 flights per day. The frequency for each airline is as follows:

• Vietnam Airlines: 7 flights per day
• Vietjet Air: 10 flights per day
• Vietravel Airlines: 1 flight per day

Phu Quoc Airport serves numerous domestic and international flights, with daily connections from major cities in Vietnam and key international destinations (Source: Collected)

International flights

International routes landing at Phu Quoc Airport include flights from Hong Kong, Beijing, Busan, Bangkok, Seoul, and other destinations. Airlines such as Vietjet Air, Korean Air, Thai Airways, China Airlines, and some others are operating these international flights.

See more: 

• Flights from Da Nang to Phu Quoc: Must-know info for first-time flyers
• Ho Chi Minh City to Phu Quoc flights: Duration, airlines, prices & more
• Flights from Hanoi to Phu Quoc: Direct flights, schedules, airfares & more

4. Structure and Infrastructure of Phu Quoc Airport

Phu Quoc Airport is an international 4E airport with a 3,000-meter-long, 45-meter-wide runway and 14 aircraft parking positions during peak times. The passenger terminal, which opened in 2012 and was expanded in 2018, initially had a capacity of 2.65 million passengers per year, then was increased to 4 million. As of 2022, the airport handled over 5.5 million passengers and around 90 to 100 flights daily.

The 24,325-square-meter passenger terminal is designed for both domestic and international travelers, with distinct areas for arrivals and departures. This layout improves efficiency and passenger flow, providing a clear, one-way path from the public area to the departure lounges for enhanced comfort and convenience.

The terminal consists of 2 floors:

• Ground Floor: Dedicated to serving arriving passengers, this level includes facilities for baggage claim, customs, technical rooms, retail shops, and dining services. It is designed to handle both domestic and international arrivals, ensuring a smooth and efficient processing experience.

Map of the ground floor, Phu Quoc Airport’s passenger terminal (Source: Collected)

• First Floor: Focused on departing passengers, this level features check-in counters, security screening areas, baggage claim belts, waiting lounges, duty-free shops, and dining options. It is designed to handle the needs of both domestic and international travelers, providing a comprehensive range of services to enhance the travel experience.

First floor of the passenger terminal, Phu Quoc International Airport (Source: Collected)

5. Which services does Phu Quoc International Airport offer?

Many services are available at the airport. Specifically, there are two stores where you can find Phu Quoc Airport lounges. While waiting for your flight, you can shop around or simply look at the sky at these places. Handicrafts, tee shirts, pearl jewelry, and liquors are the major items sold at the shops.

At the departure halls, there are two coffee shops, a Vietnamese restaurant, and a Burger King, providing various options to satisfy your hunger and thirst before boarding.

Regarding airport transfer, in front of the arrival halls, you can easily find a vehicle like a taxi, Phu Quoc Airport bus or motorbike taxi to get to the places you want. Transfer costs vary depending on your destination, typically ranging from 5 to 30 USD per trip, plus a 1 USD airport toll.

There are many services for your Phu Quoc Airport departures and arrivals (Source: Collected)

6. Essential tips for flawless travel

Here are some helpful tips for a smooth and enjoyable journey as you arrive at the airport:

• For flight information, including departure and arrival times or check-in procedures, you can ask directly at the check-in counters on the 1st floor of the passenger terminal or call the airport information hotline at 0297 3848 486.
• The airport terminal features a variety of dining options, including Star Cafe, Espresso Cafe, Big Bowl Restaurant, and Hoa Sim Restaurant, where you can enjoy different foods and beverages.
• Key amenities at Phu Quoc Airport include medical services, a VIP lounge, ATMs, currency exchange, and bus ticket counters.
• Nearby popular tourist spots include:
  • Sao Beach (29 km away): Known for its pristine white sand and clear blue water, Sao Beach is a tranquil spot ideal for relaxation and swimming.
  • Ham Ninh Fishing Village (8 km away): This authentic fishing village offers a glimpse into local life and stunning sea views, with fresh seafood available at local markets.
  • Phu Quoc Prison (16 km away): A historical site that provides insights into the island’s past, with exhibits about the Vietnam War era in the prison museum.
  • VinWonders Phu Quoc (32 km away): Vietnam’s largest theme park, featuring various themed areas, thrilling rides, and captivating shows suitable for all ages.
  • Vinpearl Safari Phu Quoc (35 km away): Vietnam’s first semi-wildlife park, where you can see exotic animals in naturalistic enclosures, offering an engaging experience for families.

VinWonders Phu Quoc – Vietnam’s biggest theme park

Book VinWonders Phu Quoc ticket now

Observe wild animals up close at Vinpearl Safari Phu Quoc

Book Vinpearl Safari Phu Quoc ticket now

For a luxurious stay close to the airport, consider Vinpearl Phu Quoc, located in the Bai Dai area – renowned for its stunning, unspoiled beauty and magnificent natural scenery. This 5-star complex offers upscale resorts, diverse shopping, dining, spa, and entertainment options. About 30 km from the airport, it takes roughly 40-50 minutes to reach, with convenient transportation options like free Vinbus, hotel shuttles, taxis, and personal vehicles.

Vinpearl Phu Quoc – a top choice for beach vacations in Phu Quoc

Book rooms in Vinpearl Phu Quoc

Hopefully, this information will help you learn more about Phu Quoc Airport and choose the best time for your flight to the pearl island. In addition to considering Phu Quoc Airport flight schedules, it is also important to plan your itinerary in detail to make the most of your trip.