China Eastern Airlines has launched a new direct flight route between Shanghai Pudong and Phu Quoc, expanding China–Vietnam air connectivity and making the island destination easier to reach.
Summary: China Eastern Airlines has opened a new nonstop route linking Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) and Phu Quoc International Airport (PQC). The inaugural flight departed on February 2, 2026, using an Airbus A320neo configured for up to 180 passengers, adding a new direct option for travel between China and Vietnam.
China Eastern Airlines has introduced a new direct flight connecting Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) with Phu Quoc International Airport (PQC) in Vietnam, expanding its international network and adding a more straightforward way to reach one of Vietnam’s best-known island destinations. The first flight took off on February 2, 2026.
New PVG–PQC route expands China–Vietnam air connectivity
The Shanghai–Phu Quoc launch is positioned as a strategic step for China Eastern Airlines as it grows its international operations and broadens choices for passengers. By offering a nonstop link, the carrier is aiming to make travel between China and Vietnam more efficient while supporting demand for both leisure and business trips to Phu Quoc.
Phu Quoc has gained attention for its beaches, tropical climate, and cultural attractions, and the new service is expected to support tourism flows between the two countries by improving access to the island for travelers departing from Shanghai and beyond.
Phu Quoc tourism growth and economic ambitions
As Vietnam’s largest island, Phu Quoc has been marketed as a tropical destination combining natural scenery with resort development and outdoor activities. Beyond leisure travel, the island is also being positioned as an economic center, with particular focus on tourism, hospitality, and real estate.
With the new direct flight in place, China Eastern Airlines is expected to contribute to increased visitor volumes and broader commercial links, supporting tourism and trade between China and Vietnam through improved transport options.
Aircraft choice: Airbus A320neo on the Shanghai–Phu Quoc service
China Eastern Airlines is operating the route with an Airbus A320neo, described as a modern, fuel-efficient aircraft designed to improve operating efficiency while offering updated cabin conditions. The aircraft is also associated with lower fuel use and reduced noise levels compared with earlier-generation models.
- Route: Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) to Phu Quoc International Airport (PQC)
- Inaugural departure date: February 2, 2026
- Aircraft type: Airbus A320neo
- Capacity: up to 180 passengers
- Cabin options mentioned: business class and economy class
Shanghai Pudong’s role as an international hub
Shanghai is one of China’s largest cities and a major center for international travel, with Shanghai Pudong International Airport serving as a key gateway. Adding Phu Quoc to the network strengthens Shanghai’s links to Southeast Asia and aligns with growing interest in the Vietnamese island among travelers.
The route is also framed as a way to support onward connectivity, enabling passengers to reach Phu Quoc more easily via Shanghai and to connect from other major cities in China through the airline’s wider network.
China–Vietnam ties and expected demand for direct flights
The new nonstop service arrives as China and Vietnam continue to deepen diplomatic and economic engagement. The route is expected to support not only tourism but also trade, business travel, and cultural exchange, strengthening people-to-people links between the two countries.
The article also notes Chinese investment activity in Vietnam across areas including tourism, infrastructure, and technology, and frames the new air link as another element that could reinforce bilateral cooperation.
Phu Quoc infrastructure development and airport capacity
Phu Quoc is undergoing infrastructure upgrades as Vietnam works to develop the island into a major tourism hub. Improvements referenced include transportation links, accommodation, and visitor amenities, alongside continued growth in international air traffic.
Phu Quoc International Airport opened in 2012 and is described as the largest airport in southern Vietnam. The Shanghai route is expected to further strengthen the island’s role as a regional gateway for international visitors.
What this means for travelers and the travel industry
For travelers, the China Eastern Airlines PVG–PQC launch means a new nonstop option to reach Phu Quoc, potentially reducing travel time and simplifying trip planning compared with itineraries that require connections. For the wider travel industry, the route signals continued airline interest in Vietnam’s island destinations and supports expectations of rising demand for direct China–Vietnam services as tourism and investment activity expand.
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