This article is based on an official press release from Sun Group and supporting industry data.

Sun Group Officially Assumes Control of Phu Quoc International Airport Ahead of APEC 2027

In a landmark shift for Vietnam’s aviation sector, Sun Group officially assumed the management and operation of Phu Quoc International Airport (PQC) on January 1, 2026. The transfer marks a significant deepening of the country’s “socialization” policy, moving a critical national gateway from the state-controlled Airports Corporation of Vietnam (ACV) to private administration under Sun Group’s subsidiary, Sun Airport Joint Stock Company (SAC).

According to the official announcement, the handover became effective at 00:00 hours on January 1. The transition was authorized under Decision No. 2405/QD-BXD by the Ministry of Construction and follows the issuance of a new Airport Operation Certificate by the Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam (CAAV). This move places Sun Group in control of the island’s aviation infrastructure, including runways, taxiways, and terminals, just as the region prepares for a massive influx of global dignitaries.

Operational Transfer and Immediate Priorities

The transfer agreement (No. 01/2025/TT) finalizes the shift of assets from ACV to Sun Airport JSC. While ACV continues to manage the majority of Vietnam’s civil airports, the privatization of the Phu Quoc hub follows the precedent set by Sun Group’s successful development of Van Don International Airport in Quang Ninh.

Government officials have stressed that safety remains the paramount concern during this transition. In statements surrounding the handover, Deputy Minister of Construction Le Anh Tuan emphasized the gravity of the task.

“Ensuring absolute aviation safety is an unwavering principle.”

, Deputy Minister of Construction Le Anh Tuan

A representative from Sun Group stated that their immediate priority is to “ensure safe, stable, and smooth aviation operations” while beginning the process of upgrading passenger service touchpoints to meet international standards.

Strategic Context: The APEC 2027 Mandate

The timing of this takeover is driven by urgent national requirements. Phu Quoc has been selected to host the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Summit in 2027. Current infrastructure data indicates the airport is already operating well beyond its design limits, necessitating rapid expansion that the government believes private capital can execute more swiftly.

Addressing the Capacity Crunch

Data regarding the airport’s operational load highlights the necessity for immediate upgrades:

• Design Capacity: 2.65 million passengers per year.
• 2022 Throughput: Over 5.5 million passengers.
• 2025 Projection: Estimated to reach 7 million passengers.

With the airport operating at nearly double its intended capacity, the existing facilities were deemed insufficient for the logistical demands of the APEC Summit.

The “Super Project” Expansion Plan

Sun Group has been approved to lead a comprehensive expansion project with a total investment estimated at VND 22 trillion (approximately USD 900 million). The objective is to transform PQC into a high-class international hub capable of handling 20 million passengers annually by 2030.

Key infrastructure developments outlined in the investment plan include:

• Terminal 2 (T2): Construction of a second international terminal to alleviate congestion.
• Runway Expansion: Extension of the existing runway and the addition of a second runway designed to accommodate wide-body aircraft such as the Boeing 787 and Airbus A350.
• VIP Terminal: A dedicated facility specifically designed to serve APEC 2027 dignitaries and high-profile guests.

Vertical Integration: The “Resort Airline” Model

The airport takeover is supported by the recent launch of Sun PhuQuoc Airways, a strategic component of Sun Group’s ecosystem. Commencing commercial operations on November 1, 2025, the carrier is positioned as Vietnam’s first “Resort Airline.”

According to operational data, the airline launched with a fleet of three Airbus A321NX/CEO aircraft. Aggressive expansion plans aim to grow the fleet to 25 aircraft by the end of 2026. The carrier currently connects Phu Quoc with domestic hubs including Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang, as well as international markets in South Korea and China.

AirPro News Analysis

The consolidation of Phu Quoc’s aviation assets under Sun Group represents a masterclass in vertical integration. By controlling the destination (resorts and theme parks), the transport (Sun PhuQuoc Airways), and now the gateway (Phu Quoc International Airport), Sun Group has effectively ring-fenced the tourist experience.

However, this strategy comes with immense pressure. The conglomerate must now balance day-to-day operations for millions of tourists while executing a nearly billion-dollar construction project in under 18 months to meet the APEC deadline. The success of this “socialization” experiment will likely influence future public-private partnerships in Vietnam’s infrastructure sector.

Sources

• Sun Group Official Announcement

This article is based on an official press release from Avia Solutions Group.

Aviator Selected to Support Vietnam Airlines’ First Direct Nordic Link

Aviator Airport Alliance, a subsidiary of Avia Solutions Group, has been selected as the official ground handling partner for Vietnam Airlines at Copenhagen Airport (CPH). This partnership underpins a significant milestone in global Airlines connectivity: the launch of the first-ever direct route between Vietnam and Northern Europe.

According to the official announcement, Aviator will provide comprehensive ground handling and de-icing services for the carrier’s new service connecting Ho Chi Minh City (SGN) and Copenhagen. The route, which officially commenced operations on December 15, 2025, marks a strategic expansion for Vietnam Airlines as it seeks to capture growing demand in the Scandinavian market.

The agreement highlights Aviator’s strengthening position in the Nordic aviation sector, where it currently operates at 15 Airports. By securing this contract, the company reinforces its role as a key enabler for long-haul carriers entering the region.

Operational Overview: Connecting SGN and CPH

The new service operates three times weekly, utilizing Vietnam Airlines’ modern Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner fleet. The aircraft is configured to accommodate roughly 300 passengers, featuring 28 Business Class seats and 283 Economy Class seats. This capacity is designed to meet the needs of both leisure travelers and the growing business sector linking the two regions.

Under the terms of the Partnerships, Aviator is responsible for a full suite of ground operations. This includes passenger services, ramp handling, and critical de-icing operations, a vital requirement for winter operations in Copenhagen. The flight schedule is structured to maximize connectivity:

• Departures from Ho Chi Minh City (SGN): Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays (Late evening).
• Departures from Copenhagen (CPH): Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays (Mid-day).

Linus Olofsson, Head of Commercial Denmark at Aviator, emphasized the complexity and importance of supporting long-haul operations in the company’s statement:

“This new route represents an important step for connectivity between the Nordics and Southeast Asia. Long-haul operations require seamless coordination on the ground, and we are proud that Vietnam Airlines has chosen Aviator as its ground handling and de-icing partner in Copenhagen.”

Strategic Expansion in Europe

This new route is part of a broader European expansion strategy by Vietnam Airlines. Following recent route launches to Munich in late 2024 and Milan in mid-2025, the Copenhagen link solidifies the carrier’s footprint across the continent. Previously, travelers between Vietnam and Scandinavia relied on transit hubs such as Frankfurt, London, or Paris.

Nguyen Tien Long, Station Manager for Vietnam Airlines, noted that operational reliability was a key factor in selecting a partner for this historic route:

“Superior ground handling is pivotal to the success of a new long-haul operation. Aviator’s expertise ensures the seamless reliability we demand from day one.”

AirPro News Analysis: Economic Drivers

While the press release focuses on operational logistics, AirPro News notes that this route launch coincides with robust economic indicators. According to trade data referenced in reports surrounding the launch, two-way trade between Vietnam and Denmark grew by over 20% in the first 11 months of 2024, reaching approximately $614 million.

Furthermore, the extension of Vietnam’s unilateral visa waiver policy through 2028 appears to be driving tourism demand. Early 2025 data suggests a nearly 11% increase in Danish visitors to Vietnam. By establishing a direct link, Vietnam Airlines is likely positioning itself to capture the entirety of this point-to-point traffic, rather than ceding market share to indirect competitors like Lufthansa or Air France.

Frequently Asked Questions

What aircraft is used for the new Copenhagen route?
Vietnam Airlines is utilizing the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner for this service.

How often does the flight operate?
The service operates three times per week: Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from Vietnam, returning on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays from Denmark.

Who is providing ground services?
Aviator Airport Alliance, a subsidiary of Avia Solutions Group, is handling passenger services, ramp operations, and de-icing.

Sources

• Avia Solutions Group

This article is based on an official press release from Leonardo.

Leonardo Secures Over $120 Million in Contracts to Modernize Baggage Systems at Houston and Melbourne Airports

Leonardo, the global aerospace and defense company, has announced the signing of two significant contracts with a combined value exceeding $120 million USD. According to an official press release issued by the company, these agreements will see Leonardo upgrade and replace critical baggage handling systems (BHS) at William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) in Houston, Texas, and Melbourne Orlando International Airport (MLB) in Florida.

The infrastructure projects are designed to prepare both airports for surging passenger demand anticipated in 2026. For Houston, this timeline aligns with the city’s role as a host for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, while Melbourne is scaling operations to accommodate increased international tourism traffic.

Scope of Infrastructure Upgrades

The contracts involve the deployment of Leonardo’s proprietary Multisort Baggage Handling System (MBHS), which utilizes Cross-Belt sorter technology. This technology is favored for its ability to handle high volumes of luggage with precision while maintaining a compact footprint.

William P. Hobby Airport (HOU)

At Houston’s Hobby Airport, a key hub for Southwest Airlines, the project entails a full-scale replacement of the existing baggage infrastructure. According to the project specifications released by Leonardo, the new system will feature:

• Two high-performance Cross-Belt sorters measuring 780 feet and 673 feet respectively.
• Integration with a TSA-compliant Checked Baggage Inspection System (CBIS).
• A new Early Bag Storage (EBS) solution to manage layovers and schedule changes efficiently.

Melbourne Orlando International Airport (MLB)

In Florida, the project at MLB focuses on installing a new BHS to support the airport’s rapid growth as a coastal gateway. The installation will include:

• A 524-foot Cross-Belt sorter.
• Five induction lines and 13 sorting chutes.
• Integration with three Explosive Detection System (EDS) machines to ensure 100% TSA compliance.

“Through these programmes, Leonardo will modernize and streamline baggage operations without interrupting the airports’ daily activities… Passengers will benefit from faster, more secure and more reliable baggage processing.”
, Leonardo Press Release

Strategic Drivers: The “2026 Demand”

While the press release cites “evolving traffic demand in 2026” as the primary catalyst for these investments, industry context clarifies the specific pressures facing these hubs.

Houston and the World Cup: Houston Airports System is currently managing a broader $470 million expansion of the West Concourse at Hobby Airport. With Houston scheduled to host seven matches during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the airport requires infrastructure capable of handling “Super Bowl-level” traffic volumes. Jim Szczesniak, Director of Aviation for Houston Airports, emphasized the importance of these upgrades in public remarks regarding the expansion:

“As the first and last impression for millions of visitors, Bush and Hobby airports are investing in enhanced facilities… to create an unforgettable experience for travelers.”
, Jim Szczesniak, Director of Aviation for Houston Airports

Florida’s International Growth: Melbourne Orlando International Airport has recently expanded its portfolio by becoming a gateway for TUI, a major UK holiday operator. This partnership is expected to bring approximately 150,000 new international passengers annually. Leonardo’s compact sorting technology was reportedly selected at MLB because it fit within the existing terminal footprint, reducing construction costs by an estimated 16% and shortening the project timeline by six months.

AirPro News Analysis

The selection of Leonardo for these projects highlights a growing trend in U.S. airport infrastructure: the shift toward European-style automated sorting to solve space constraints. Many U.S. airports, built decades ago, lack the physical space to expand baggage halls outward. Technologies like the Cross-Belt sorter allow airports to increase throughput within existing walls.

Furthermore, the emphasis on sustainability in these contracts is notable. Hobby Airport has achieved Level 2 Airport Carbon Accreditation, and Leonardo’s systems utilize “start-stop” linear motors to reduce energy consumption during low-traffic periods. We expect to see more brownfield airport projects in the U.S. prioritize these energy-efficient retrofits as federal funding increasingly ties grants to sustainability metrics.

Technology and Software Integration

Beyond the physical hardware, the contracts include the implementation of advanced software suites. Leonardo will deploy its SAC (Sorting Allocation Controller) and SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) systems. These platforms provide airport operators with real-time monitoring capabilities, allowing for predictive maintenance and the tracking of baggage flow to prevent bottlenecks before they occur.

Leonardo claims its MBHS technology offers a sorting accuracy of 99.9%, a critical metric for airports expecting high-intensity surges during major international events.

Sources:
Leonardo Press Release
Houston Airports System
Melbourne Orlando International Airport