After more than a year of construction, the T2 terminal at Phu Quoc International Airport is approaching completion, with approximately 95% of the reinforced concrete structure finished, 70% of the steel structure completed, and 80% of the construction and plastering work done. The terminal, designed to resemble a phoenix, is a key part of the airport's expansion project.

As of August, the construction site has shifted focus to finishing architectural details, installing technical infrastructure, and operational equipment. The project commenced in July 2025 with a total investment of 22 trillion VND and is expected to be operational by April next year, in time for the APEC 2027 summit.

The roof structure has proven to be one of the most challenging aspects of the project due to its complex design, which incorporates numerous layers of 'feathers' that are both raised and recessed. The total weight of the roof structure's steelwork is nearly 25,000 tons, with the longest span reaching 72 meters.

Once operational, the terminal will integrate online check-in technology, automated baggage sorting, and biometric recognition to optimize passenger flow and enhance service quality. The modern five-level baggage handling system inside the terminal has reached about 50% completion, with testing scheduled to begin on August 20.

Construction has mobilized over 6,000 engineers and workers, who are working continuously in three shifts to ensure the project meets its timeline. The glass installation on the terminal's roof is currently underway, utilizing Unitized glass panels measuring approximately 2 x 3 meters and weighing between 400-500 kg each. This glass not only enhances the architectural design but also provides robust protection against harsh weather conditions.

According to the contractor, the imported glass is processed directly on the island before being transported to the construction site. Initially, the installation rate was about 20 panels per day, but as the site, equipment, and workforce become synchronized, the rate has increased to around 30-40 panels per day, with further optimization planned to meet completion goals.

The exterior of the terminal is gradually being completed, surrounded by gardens featuring pepper plants, coconut trees, bougainvillea, and the tropical flora characteristic of Phu Quoc. The lighting system on the second runway, which is 3.3 kilometers long, has been completed and was calibrated on July 27, making it the first component of the project to be finished, with operations expected to begin on September 3.

According to the design, the airport covers more than 1,050 hectares and meets the 4E standard set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), allowing it to accommodate wide-body aircraft such as the Boeing 747, 787, and Airbus A350. By the time of APEC 2027, the airport's capacity is projected to reach 18 million passengers per year, which is 4.5 times its current capacity, supporting the tourism and economic development goals of Phu Quoc Island. By 2050, the airport is planned to handle 50 million passengers and 50,000 tons of cargo annually.