Phu Quoc Airport – Everything You Need to Know

Phu Quoc Airport is the main entry point for travelers coming to this island paradise. From airport transfers to useful tips, we’ve picked up a few things that might make your trip smoother. If you’re planning a visit or just curious about what to expect, let’s explore all the information together in this article.

Overview of Phu Quoc International Airport (PQC)

Before getting into airport tips and transfers, it’s helpful to know a bit about Phu Quoc International Airport (PQC) itself. To give you a better idea of what to expect, we’ve rounded up some key details about Phu Quoc airport below.

Location & basic facts

Phu Quoc airport is located in Duong To commune, about 10 kilometers south of Duong Dong town – the island’s main center.

• IATA code: PQC
• ICAO code: VVPQ
• Opened: officially in 2012, replacing the older Duong Dong airport
• Size: It’s a single-terminal airport but can handle up to 5 million passengers per year, making it one of Vietnam’s busiest island airports.

Despite its size, we found navigation pretty straightforward, and the layout easy to manage – especially compared to larger international hubs.

Airlines & flight routes 

Over the years, Phu Quoc airport has become a popular hub for both domestic and international travel. Based on our experience and regular updates:

• Domestic flights: Phu Quoc airport connects with major Vietnamese cities like Ho Chi Minh City (SGN), Hanoi (HAN), Da Nang (DAD), and Can Tho (VCA). Flights are frequent, and many are under 2 hours.
  
• International flights: Depending on the season, you can fly directly to and from destinations like Bangkok, Seoul, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, and several cities in China. Carriers include Vietnam Airlines, VietJet Air, Bamboo Airways, and international airlines such as AirAsia and Korean Air.

Terminal layout & passenger flow

We’ve passed through Phu Quoc Airport multiple times, and what stands out most is how easy it is to get around. Whether you’re catching a domestic flight or arriving from overseas, the airport is designed to make the process simple and stress-free. Here’s what we’ve learned along the way:

Terminal 1

Currently, Terminal 1 is the only terminal in operation at Phu Quoc Airport. It’s compact, well-organized, and handles both domestic and international flights.

• The terminal has two main floors – the ground floor is where arrivals happen, and the upper floor is for departures. Signs are clear, and walking distances are short, which is great after a long flight.
  
• Counters are located right near the main entrance. From our experience, check-in usually moves quickly, but it can get busy during peak travel hours.
  
• The security process is straightforward, and staff are generally helpful. Just make sure to arrive about 90 minutes early for domestic flights and 2 hours for international ones.
  
• There are a couple of lounges available, including one for business class passengers and a paid-access lounge. These are great if you want to relax, grab a snack, or catch up on emails before boarding.
  

International vs domestic wings

Even though both types of flights operate out of the same terminal, the international and domestic wings are clearly separated after check-in.

• For domestic flights, you’ll head to gates located on one side of the building. It’s usually a quick walk, and boarding tends to be smooth.
• For international flights, you’ll go through immigration and customs before reaching the gate. The waiting area is slightly smaller but still comfortable, with duty-free shops and a few cafés nearby.

In our experience, the airport staff do a good job of guiding passengers, and announcements are made in both Vietnamese and English.

Upcoming Terminal 2

We’re excited about the future of Phu Quoc Airport! Terminal 2 is currently under development and promises a big upgrade.

• The design is inspired by a phoenix, symbolizing growth and transformation – a beautiful concept that reflects the island’s rising popularity.
• Once completed, the new terminal will increase capacity significantly, helping the airport handle the growing number of international visitors.
• The project is expected to finish in the next couple of years, and based on renderings we’ve seen, it will bring a more modern and spacious feel to the entire travel experience.

Ground transportation options

Once you land at Phu Quoc Airport, getting to your hotel or next destination is easier than you might expect. We’ve tried a few different ways to get around the island, so here’s a helpful breakdown of your main options:

Hotel & resort shuttle services

If you’re staying at a major resort like Vinpearl, Pullman, or InterContinental, chances are they offer complimentary or private shuttle transfers. We highly recommend checking with your hotel in advance, as this is one of the most convenient and stress-free ways to travel after landing – someone will be waiting with your name sign and a smile!

Taxi & ride-hailing 

For most travelers, taxis and Grab are quick and reliable options. Mai Linh is the most well-known taxi brand at the airport, with metered fares. A ride to Duong Dong town typically costs VND 180,000–250,000, depending on distance and traffic.

Alternatively, you can use Grab (Vietnam’s version of Uber). It’s easy to book via the app, and the price is shown upfront. We’ve used it several times without issues – just make sure you have mobile data or Wi-Fi at the airport.

Public bus details

Surprisingly, Phu Quoc offers a free public airport bus, which runs to major stops around the island, including Duong Dong town. It’s a good option if you’re traveling light and want to save money, though buses may not run frequently or late at night. Ask at the information counter upon arrival for the latest schedule.

Motorbike taxis & rental options

If you’re traveling solo or prefer two wheels, motorbike taxis (Grab) are available just outside the terminal. They’re affordable – usually VND 50,000–80,000 for short distances.

Want more freedom? You can also rent a motorbike directly at the airport or near your hotel for around VND 120,000–150,000 per day. Just remember to wear a helmet and drive carefully — traffic here is calmer than in big cities, but rules are still flexible!

Rooty Trip private airport transfer service

For extra comfort and local support, we recommend Rooty Trip’s private transfer service. It’s a door-to-door ride with a friendly driver who knows the island well. Whether you’re heading to a beach resort or a remote homestay, Rooty’s team can arrange a clean, air-conditioned vehicle to pick you up directly at the airport.

They offer:

• Fixed, transparent pricing
• English-speaking support
• Optional sightseeing stops along the way

If you’re looking for a smooth, personalized start to your Phu Quoc journey, this is a great option.

Airport facilities & passenger services

Phu Quoc International Airport may not be huge, but it covers all the essentials pretty well. We’ve spent time here between flights and were pleasantly surprised by the convenience and comfort available. Here’s a quick look at what you can expect while waiting for your flight:

Dining, duty-free, lounges, Wi‑Fi

Phu Quoc Airport may be small, but it offers just enough to keep you comfortable while you wait. You’ll find a few cafés and snack bars scattered around the terminal, both before and after security. While the food options aren’t fancy, you can easily grab a quick bánh mì, instant noodles, or a Vietnamese coffee to recharge.

If you’re flying internationally, there’s a small duty-free zone after immigration, offering local specialties, perfumes, alcohol, and some popular snacks – great for picking up last-minute gifts.

For those looking to relax before a flight, the airport provides a couple of lounges. One is for business class travelers, while the other offers paid access for anyone who wants a bit more comfort. Inside, you’ll find air conditioning, comfortable seating, light refreshments, and charging outlets – ideal for a quiet break.

And of course, free Wi‑Fi is available throughout the terminal. We’ve connected without trouble each time we’ve visited, and found the speed just fine for checking emails or browsing social media.

Family amenities

Traveling with kids? Phu Quoc Airport has some family-friendly features to make the journey easier:

• Baby changing areas are available near the restrooms.
• There are quiet seating zones where families can relax while waiting for their flight.
• Some sections even have small play areas – not fancy, but helpful to keep young kids entertained.

It’s not a full-blown family lounge, but it covers the basics pretty well.

Currency exchange, ATMs, baggage storage

• Currency exchange counters are located near the arrival area and offer decent rates for major currencies.
  
• ATMs are available just outside the terminal and inside the departure hall. Most accept international cards (Visa/MasterCard).
  
• Baggage storage isn’t officially available yet, but some nearby travel agencies and hotels may offer short-term luggage holding – ask at the information desk for the latest options.

Visa exemption & immigration quick guide

Phu Quoc is special in that many nationalities can enter visa-free for up to 30 days, as long as you stay on the island and enter directly (not via other parts of Vietnam). We’ve seen this make a big difference for travelers who want a quick beach getaway without the paperwork. At immigration:

• Make sure to have your return ticket and hotel booking ready (they may ask).
  
• If you’re planning to travel to mainland Vietnam afterward, a proper visa is required – so be sure to plan ahead.
  
• Immigration queues are usually manageable, but it’s still good to have your documents in order to keep things smooth.

Flight tips & travel advice

Over the years, we’ve picked up a few handy tips that can make your travel through Phu Quoc Airport smoother and less stressful. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a regular flyer, these quick insights might help you avoid common hiccups.

Recommended arrival times

We recommend arriving at the airport at least 90 minutes before a domestic flight and 2-2.5 hours for international flights. While Phu Quoc Airport is small and efficient, lines at check-in or security can get surprisingly long during peak hours or holidays.

If you’re traveling during busy times (like weekends or Tet holiday), it’s always safer to arrive earlier than usual, especially if you’re flying with checked baggage.

Baggage rules & online check-in notes

Each airline has slightly different baggage policies, so it’s a good idea to double-check your allowance in advance. For example:

• Vietnam Airlines usually includes checked baggage in economy tickets.
• VietJet Air and Bamboo Airways often sell basic fares with carry-on only, unless you add baggage separately.

If possible, check in online through the airline’s website or app – it saves time at the airport and sometimes lets you choose better seats for free.

Mobile vs. printing boarding passes

Most airlines flying in and out of Phu Quoc accept mobile boarding passes, and they scan just fine at security and the gate. However, we always recommend having a screenshot saved in case of Wi-Fi issues.

For peace of mind – especially for older travelers or international flights – a printed copy is still a safe backup, and printing is often available at your hotel or a nearby print shop.

Peak traffic months & best travel seasons

From our experience, the busiest months at Phu Quoc Airport are December to March, which is also the island’s high tourist season thanks to great weather. During this time, flights and hotels book up fast, so plan ahead.

If you’re looking to avoid crowds and save money, consider traveling in the shoulder seasons – late April to early June or September to early November. The weather is still decent, but the island feels more relaxed and prices are friendlier.

With the visa exemption policy of up to 30 days, many international travelers choose activities like a Phu Quoc snorkeling tour to enjoy the turquoise waters and white sandy beaches right from their very first day on the island.

Future expansions & the airport’s role

As Phu Quoc evolves into a top regional destination, so does its airport. We’ve followed its plans closely-and it’s exciting to see how Phu Quoc Airport is gearing up for the future.

Expansion phases

To meet rising traveler numbers, the airport’s second terminal is expected to open around 2027. This new facility will boost annual capacity to around 18 million passengers, making PQC one of Vietnam’s largest island airports. We’re particularly excited that it will ease crowding and offer more room to relax between flights.

New runway & technology upgrades

Plans also include a longer runway, allowing larger planes to land and take off comfortably-great news for more direct international routes. Behind the scenes, upgrades like automated baggage systems, improved security screening, and smart airport tech are in the works to streamline passenger flow and enhance efficiency.

Sun PhuQuoc Airways & regional connectivity

A special highlight is the emergence of Sun PhuQuoc Airways, a local carrier aiming to connect Phu Quoc directly with regional cities in Southeast Asia. Their goals include daily flights to places like Seoul, Singapore, and Bangkok, which could make island travel even more seamless-and boost Phu Quoc’s global reach.

Recommended Nearby Hotels & Resorts

We’ve stayed at-or heard great things about-several nearby hotels and resorts that offer excellent comfort, amenities, and convenience, especially when it comes to airport pick-up service. Here are our top picks:

Pullman, Novotel, Sheraton, InterContinental, Regent 

Many upscale hotels near Phu Quoc Airport provide a complimentary or private airport transfer, making them a perfect choice if you’ve just landed and want to get settled quickly:

• Pullman Phu Quoc offers modern rooms, a large pool, spa, and inclusive airport shuttle.
  
• Novotel Phu Quoc Resort is family-friendly with water slides and relaxed shuttle service.
  
• Sheraton Grand Phu Quoc stands out with its beachfront infinity pool and seamless transfers.
  
• InterContinental Phu Quoc Long Beach Resort includes cable‑car views, smart rooms, and round‑trip airport pick‑up.
  
• Regent Phu Quoc delivers luxury villas, superb dining, and personalized transfer options with attentive service.

Boutique stays near Dương Tơ 

If you’re looking for a cozy, peaceful, and convenient place to stay near Phu Quoc Airport or in the Duong To area and several charming boutique accommodations offer ideal options:

• Lahanas Resort blends contemporary design with local touches and offers airport pickup upon request.

• Langchia Home – minimalist style, close to the beach, budget-friendly

• Velley Sen Bungalow – surrounded by greenery, features a garden and outdoor pool

• Sunlight Bungalow – cozy bungalows perfect for couples or small groups

Conclusion & travel checklist

We hope this guide has helped you feel more prepared for your trip through Phu Quoc Airport. To make things even easier, don’t forget you can book door-to-door airport transfers with Rooty Trip – it’s a reliable way to get to your hotel without stress, especially if it’s your first time visiting Phu Quoc.

Here’s a quick travel checklist to help you get ready:

• Arrive 90 minutes early for domestic flights, 2 hours for international
• Double-check your baggage allowance
• Check in online and save your boarding pass
• Exchange some cash or bring a card for taxis, snacks, and tips
• Confirm hotel shuttle or book a Rooty Trip transfer in advance
• Download travel apps: Grab, your airline app, Google Maps
•  Bring the essentials: sunscreen, swimwear, power bank, and good vibes

Thanks for reading, and we hope to see you enjoying every corner of Phu Quoc soon. Safe travels!