Changi - a global model of the "airport as a destination"
Before becoming a global aviation icon, Changi was a swamp and jungle area developed by the British into a military base in the 1920s. In the context of a small nation heavily reliant on international connectivity, Singapore chose to reinvent Changi with a grand ambition: to become an international gateway with the "airport as a destination" model, shaping how this country connects with the world in the long term.
What makes Changi's special status unique is not its scale, but how the airport is designed as a "destination". It pioneered the concept of "an airport in a garden", integrating nature into its operational space. That spirit was elevated to a new level with Jewel, a true entertainment - shopping - leisure complex launched in 2019, featuring a 40m-high indoor waterfall – the world's tallest – with over 900 trees and 60,000 plants.
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Green landscape design at Terminal T2, Phu Quoc International Airport. Photo: HOK
Alongside this is the characteristic "Changi destination" experience system, such as the themed garden system Butterfly Garden with thousands of tropical butterflies, Canopy Park, Heritage Zone with a duty-free area inspired by local architecture, or even an outdoor swimming pool, jacuzzi, and pool bar at Aerotel T1 for passengers to relax before their flight.
The airport also considers passengers' emotional experience as the center of every touchpoint. An exclusive scent combining orchid, Damask rose, and ylang-ylang; a music "playlist" programmed according to the time of day, or even an orchid variety named after the destination itself, "Dendrobium Singapore Changi Airport," specially bred since 1997 and displayed at the Orchid Garden - all aim to create an "emotional memory" for passengers.
World-class non-aviation commercial ecosystem built at Phu Quoc Airport. Photo: Aedas Interiors
In 2025, Changi welcomed up to 70 million passengers - its highest ever. The airport connects over 400 cities globally, becoming one of the largest and "busiest" aviation hubs in the world, continuously honored with prestigious global awards with 13 times holding the title of "World's Best Airport", while contributing to Singapore becoming one of the leading tourism - aviation hubs in the region.
"Changi Standard" elevates Vietnam's aviation infrastructure to new heights
What Changi has achieved has become a typical model for aviation infrastructure development in many countries. Sun Group has pioneered the realization of this "airport as a destination" model approach, through its cooperation with Changi Airports International (CAI) on March 21st. The "Changi Standard" will no longer be a reference, but will be practically operated at Phu Quoc International Airport .
Throughout the development and operation process of Phu Quoc Airport, CAI participates right from the design consulting stage, shaping the "operational DNA" from the very beginning with the overall operating model (Concept of Operations), preparing the operating system to directly participating in management, enhancing the airport's operational efficiency.
Modern automated check-in area of Phu Quoc airport. Photo: HOK
CAI will also develop an international flight network, working with airlines to expand market connectivity; at the same time, building a world-class non-aviation commercial ecosystem, gathering the presence of leading global retail, F&B, and duty-free brands.
Phu Quoc International Airport expansion project is being urgently constructed. Photo by Sun Group
Phu Quoc Airport is currently being urgently expanded by Sun Group, ready for the APEC High-Level Meeting, with a scale of over 1,050 hectares, 4E ICAO standard, including runway number 2, international terminal T2, VIP terminal, along with the expansion of the apron and supporting infrastructure. Currently, the rough structure of terminal T2 has reached about 85% and officially entered the stage of installing the roof steel structure. Notably, the VIP terminal has completed 100% of its rough structure, with the roof structure reaching about 60%, showing construction progress exceeding expectations and rapidly moving towards the completion phase.
Design inspired by an underwater scene at the arrival hall. Photo: Aedas Interiors
Terminal T2 is a prominent component inspired by the image of the Fire Phoenix, symbolizing rebirth and prosperity in East Asian culture. The terminal was developed with the participation of world-leading design firms such as CPG Consultants, Artelia Airport, Aedas, and HOK. The terminal is designed as a seamless spatial journey from the ocean to the sky, including automated service counters; self-check-in counters, retail areas integrated within lush green atriums, a Viewing Gallery,.... Terminal T2 is also integrated with the world's leading advanced operational technology systems today, such as the TAM - Total Airport Management model, contactless biometrics, the ICS baggage handling system, and automation solutions.
VIP Terminal Lounge
Meanwhile, the 8,500 m² VIP terminal, designed by architect Marco Casamonti with interiors by Aedas Interiors (Singapore), meets the standard for serving private jets for up to 300 passengers. Inspired by the sea eagle, the terminal is designed as a spatial journey with oceanic depth, subtly combining local elements such as fishing villages, pearls, and peppercorns in a contemporary design language. Functional areas are clearly layered, from a lobby evoking traditional architecture to private, high-class lounges for heads of state. The VIP terminal will be a space representing the national image, contributing to shaping new airport standards for Phu Quoc.
With less than 14 months left to complete service for APEC 2027 , the form of a "destination airport" is gradually emerging in Phu Quoc. The Jade Island will not only welcome flights and arriving guests but also shape the world's new perception of Vietnam – a leading regional destination rising in the nation's new era.
