Phu Cat Airport expands international connectivity to unlock Gia Lai’s tourism potential
On 25 October 2026, an international charter flight from Macau (China) landed at Phu Cat Airport, marking the airport’s first direct international flight and opening up new opportunities to connect international visitor markets with Gia Lai and the South Central Coast–Central Highlands region.
Combining the coastal appeal of Quy Nhon with the highland landscapes of Pleiku, Gia Lai offers diverse tourism experiences, from beach holidays and seaside relaxation to nature exploration and local cultural discovery. Recognizing these advantages, the province has identified tourism development linked to air connectivity as a priority, with the aim of attracting more international visitors and creating new opportunities for route development.
As a key enterprise responsible for investing in, managing and operating a network of 21 airports nationwide, Airports Corporation of Vietnam (ACV) plays an important role in developing aviation infrastructure, enhancing operational capacity and strengthening connectivity between local destinations and domestic and international markets. As the operator of Phu Cat Airport, ACV is investing in infrastructure upgrades to accommodate growing air transport demand and lay the groundwork for expanded international connectivity. These initiatives include the renovation and expansion of Terminal 2 to accommodate international charter flights, with an expected capacity of approximately 600 passengers during peak hours. In addition, the second runway project and associated facilities, with a total investment of more than VND 3.2 trillion, will help enhance the airport’s operational capacity.
Alongside infrastructure investment, Gia Lai is introducing incentives to support international charter operations, including VND 200 million for each international charter flight landing at Phu Cat during the 2026–2027 period. Tour operators bringing international visitors to the province are also eligible for support covering 50% of admission fees at selected tourist attractions, in accordance with applicable regulations. By combining aviation incentives with tourism development measures, the province is taking a coordinated approach to market development—not only encouraging airlines to explore potential routes, but also helping tour operators develop packages, attract visitors and generate tangible demand for air services.
With ACV’s continued investment in airport infrastructure, Gia Lai’s commitment to tourism and aviation development, and the availability of market support policies, Phu Cat Airport is progressively establishing favorable conditions for expanded international connectivity. This presents an opportunity for airlines and tour operators to explore market potential, develop suitable flight programmes and tap into Gia Lai’s growing tourism opportunities.