Phu Quoc is entering 2026 with remarkable momentum, as record international flights and rising visitor numbers position Vietnam’s “Pearl Island” among Southeast Asia’s fastest-growing island destinations. In the lead-up to Lunar New Year, the island experienced its busiest holiday period on record, reflecting strong global demand for tropical escapes that combine natural beauty with modern tourism infrastructure.
During the Tết holiday period (13–22 February 2026), Phu Quoc International Airport handled 767 flights and more than 260,000 passengers, marking a 37% increase year-on-year and confirming the island’s growing role as a regional aviation hub. Peak travel days saw up to 80 flights daily, while overall holiday flights rose by around 50% compared to 2025, highlighting the scale of the tourism surge.
The island’s appeal is driven by expanded direct flight connections, improved infrastructure and increasing recognition in international travel media. New and upcoming routes, including international services planned by Sun PhuQuoc Airways, are expected to strengthen links with key markets such as South Korea and Taiwan, further boosting accessibility.
Beyond connectivity, Phu Quoc continues to attract visitors with its diverse experiences; from white-sand beaches and coral-rich waters to national park jungles covering more than half the island, there are many attractions here for visitors to explore and enjoy. With that in mind, it’s no surprise the destination has garnered global accolades recently, including recognition as a leading nature island destination, reinforcing its reputation as a sustainable, experience-rich alternative to more crowded regional hotspots.
Tourism growth is also translating into economic opportunity. Hotels and resorts report high occupancy during peak periods, while local businesses benefit from increased visitor spending and longer stays. With its expanding aviation network, year-round appeal and commitment to sustainable development, Phu Quoc is evolving from an emerging destination into a mature tourism hub with global reach.
As Vietnam’s tourism sector continues its strong recovery, Phu Quoc stands at the forefront of a nationwide boom in popularity, offering travellers a compelling blend of accessibility, natural beauty and authentic experiences that signal a bright future for island tourism in the region.
