The project is expected to open in time for APEC 2027 and aims to combine modern design, operational efficiency and Eastern cultural inspiration represented by the image of the Phoenix Reborn.
CPG Consultants, a subsidiary of Singapore-based CPG Corporation, serves as the design firm for the Phu Quoc International Airport project. The terminal design is led by Steven Thor, who has more than 30 years of experience in international design and has worked on numerous award-winning developments, including large-scale infrastructure projects in several countries.
Steven Thor, Executive Vice President (Global Atelier Collective) at CPG Consultants. Photo courtesy of CPG Consultants |
Singapore’s Changi Airport is widely considered a global benchmark for airport design, operational efficiency and passenger experience. Having been involved in the development of Changi Airport’s Terminals 1, 2 and 3 over the years, CPG brings experience in aviation and urban infrastructure to the Phu Quoc airport project.
Based on that experience, the company said the terminal is being designed with a focus on operational efficiency, sustainability and long-term scalability. The airport is expected to support Phu Quoc’s development as an international tourism and economic hub.
Why did CPG Singapore and Sun Group choose the phoenix as the design inspiration?
The phoenix was selected as the central design inspiration for the passenger terminal because it is considered a symbolic figure in Vietnamese culture. The mythical bird is commonly associated with transformation, resilience and prosperity.
According to the designers, the symbol reflects aspirations for economic growth and development while also aligning with the investor Sun Group’s goal of positioning Phu Quoc as a global tourism destination supported by modern infrastructure.
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Phu Quoc airport’s passenger Terminal T2 draws inspiration from the Phoenix. Photo courtesy of Sun Group |
How has the image of the phoenix been translated into architectural design?
The phoenix motif is reflected in the terminal’s roof and façade design. The elevated roof form is intended to evoke the image of a phoenix spreading its wings, while the sun-shading system resembles layered feathers that allow natural light to filter into the building.
Natural lighting will illuminate the main hall, which rises to nearly 36 meters in height, while also opening views toward the surrounding landscape. According to the design team, this approach aims to create a bright and open interior environment that connects passengers with the island’s natural setting.
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An artist impression of Phu Quoc airport’s canopy supported by robust columns. Photo courtesy of Sun Group |
What operational features are integrated into the terminal design?
The airport is designed in line with the developer’s vision of building a modern international aviation gateway.
The project incorporates consultation from Changi Airport International and is being developed by specialists from Global Atelier Collective (GAC) and CPG Airport Studio, both design units within CPG Consultants.
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CPG Consultants integrates advanced operational technologies comparable to those at Changi Airport. Photo courtesy of Sun Group |
Advanced baggage-handling systems will be installed, with security screening carried out before passengers enter the departure hall. This layout allows travelers to move directly toward boarding areas without additional checks.
The terminal will also incorporate biometric passport control systems to reduce processing times.
The check-in area will initially include about 60% self-service counters, with the remaining counters designed to be converted to self-service in later phases. Boarding gates are configured to accommodate high passenger volumes, with flexible passenger boarding bridges capable of serving either two narrow-body aircraft simultaneously or one wide-body aircraft.
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The apron is equipped with flexible passenger boarding bridges capable of serving both narrow-body and wide-body aircraft. Photo courtesy of Sun Group |
What design elements reflect Phu Quoc’s natural environment?
The terminal’s materials and color palette are intended to reflect the island’s natural landscape of sea, sky and land. Different levels of the building correspond to these elements: the departure level uses brighter tones symbolizing the sky, the central level reflects the island’s landforms with warmer colors, and the arrival level incorporates cooler tones associated with the sea.
The design also accounts for the island’s tropical climate, which includes distinct rainy and dry seasons. Structural and façade elements are engineered to withstand strong winds, while landscaped areas are designed to cope with heavy rainfall and intense sunlight.
Despite these considerations, the façade maintains an open layout to maximize natural lighting and maintain visual connections between the terminal and the surrounding landscape.
How do you view the role of Phu Quoc Airport in the regional aviation network?
Phu Quoc is expected to attract increasing numbers of visitors in the coming years as it develops into an international tourism destination.
According to the designers, the use of advanced operational technologies similar to those implemented at major airports such as Changi will enable the facility to operate with comparable efficiency and service quality, supporting deeper integration into the regional and global aviation network.
How do you assess the construction progress and capabilities of the project teams?
Construction began in 2025, and within 11 months the project advanced from concept design to the completion of the highest structural levels. According to the design team, this pace is nearly twice the initial projection.
They attribute the progress to the capacity of the investor Sun Group as well as the capabilities of Vietnam’s design and construction teams.
Although Phu Quoc is still developing as an international destination, the airport is expected to play a major role in supporting long-term tourism growth. Future expansion plans could enable the facility to handle up to 50 million passengers annually by 2050.
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