How Sun PhuQuoc Airways made history less than a year into take-off
International travel news outlet Travel And Tour World (TTW) has described Sun PhuQuoc Airways’ recognition by Skytrax as “Asia’s Best Leisure Airline 2026” as a “history-making” achievement. According to TTW, the Sun Group airline’s rapid rise not only validates a distinctive leisure aviation model but also brings fresh momentum to Vietnam’s tourism development.
Sun PhuQuoc Airways (SPA), the leisure airline established and developed by Sun Group, has recently been named “Asia’s Best Leisure Airline 2026” by Skytrax for the first time. The airline also secured positions in two key rankings at the Skytrax World Airline Awards 2026, placing fifth among the World’s Most Improved Airlines and 99th among the world’s Top 100 Airlines.
Sun PhuQuoc Airways (SPA), the leisure airline established and developed by Sun Group, has been named “Asia’s Best Leisure Airline 2026” by Skytrax.
Reporting on the announcement, TTW said Sun PhuQuoc Airways had “made history” by winning the prestigious aviation accolade less than a year after officially launching commercial operations.
According to the outlet, Sun PhuQuoc Airways’ exceptionally rapid ascent reflects a systematic investment in the passenger experience, operational capabilities and aviation solutions closely aligned with tourism development. From a newcomer to the market, the airline has quickly made its mark on the regional and global aviation landscape.
The Skytrax World Airline Awards are regarded as one of the most prestigious awards programmes in global aviation. The results are compiled from an independent survey of international passengers, assessing a comprehensive range of criteria, including ground services, cabin amenities, the inflight experience and overall satisfaction.
From its perspective as an international travel industry publication, TTW said the “Asia’s Best Leisure Airline” accolade affirmed Sun PhuQuoc Airways’ early success in tailoring experiences specifically to leisure travellers.
According to TTW, the “Asia’s Best Leisure Airline” accolade affirms Sun PhuQuoc Airways’ early success in tailoring experiences specifically to leisure travellers.
Sun PhuQuoc Airways aims to go beyond transporting passengers from one point to another by connecting the flight with the entire travel experience. This approach also provides a foundation for more convenient, seamless journeys while improving access to Phu Quoc and Vietnam’s other key tourism destinations.
Underpinning this model is the ecosystem of tourism, hospitality and entertainment offerings that Sun Group has invested in and developed across Vietnam. The group’s experience in shaping destinations provides a foundation for Sun PhuQuoc Airways to develop aviation products around travellers’ actual needs, while linking flights with accommodation, entertainment and experiences at the destination.
According to TTW, Sun PhuQuoc Airways’ achievement carries significance beyond the airline itself, providing further momentum for Vietnam’s tourism industry. In particular, its growth supports the ambition to establish Phu Quoc as an international hub for services and tourism through new, innovative and more integrated models of connectivity.
Sun PhuQuoc Airways aims to go beyond transporting passengers by connecting the flight with the entire travel experience.
To realise its ambition of connecting Phu Quoc with the world, Sun PhuQuoc Airways is continuing to expand its domestic and international network, targeting key tourism markets including China, India, Russia and Kazakhstan.
Alongside its network expansion, the airline has announced a major fleet development programme. By the end of 2026, Sun PhuQuoc Airways expects to operate 33 aircraft, including five Airbus A330 widebodies. Its fleet is targeted to grow to 60 aircraft in 2027, 100 in 2030 and 200 in 2035.
As it increases capacity, the airline is also continuing to upgrade its ground infrastructure, airport lounges and cabin amenities, with the aim of meeting international five-star service standards.
TTW highlighted that Sun PhuQuoc Airways’ rise comes as Vietnam consolidates its position as one of Asia’s most compelling destinations. An aviation model closely connected to the destination could unlock a range of growth opportunities for hotels, resorts, restaurants, tour operators and local service providers.
The island’s airport, transport, accommodation and conference infrastructure, along with its international-standard services, are receiving comprehensive investment and upgrades in preparation for welcoming visitors from around the world.
Within this broader picture, TTW identified Phu Quoc as a destination poised to attract significant global attention as it prepares to host APEC 2027. The island’s airport, transport, accommodation and conference infrastructure, along with its international-standard services, are receiving comprehensive investment and upgrades in preparation for welcoming visitors from around the world.
Sun PhuQuoc Airways’ expanding route network is expected to play a direct role in making Phu Quoc more accessible to international delegates, business leaders, investors and tourists attending high-level events.
According to TTW, with its “Asia’s Best Leisure Airline” title and long-term development strategy, Sun PhuQuoc Airways is positioning itself as an important part of the future of Vietnam’s aviation and tourism industries.
“As Phu Quoc strengthens its position and appeal on the global map, Sun PhuQuoc Airways’ growth strategy is expected to play a pivotal role in improving international connectivity, helping to realise Vietnam’s ambitions in Asia’s highly competitive tourism market,” TTW said.