Sun PhuQuoc Airways (SPA) is expanding its international network with the launch of a new daily flight route connecting Shanghai and Ho Chi Minh City, starting 15/10. This strategic move aims to enhance connectivity between two major economic hubs and cater to growing travel demand.

The inaugural flight, 9G634, will depart from Ho Chi Minh City at 23h40 on 15/10, arriving at Pudong International Airport, Shanghai, at 4h40 on 16/10. The return flight, 9G635, will take off from Shanghai at 5h40 and land at Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Ho Chi Minh City at 9h05 on the same day, local time.

The first passengers on the route pose for a commemorative photo. _Photo: SPA_

The daily flight schedule offers passengers greater flexibility for both business and leisure travel, making it easier to plan their itineraries and subsequent journeys within Vietnam. This new route builds on SPA's recent expansion into China, following the successful launch of flights from Phu Quoc and Ho Chi Minh City to Chengdu in July and August.

According to a company representative, while Chengdu provides access to western China's market, Shanghai enhances connectivity to one of the country's largest financial and commercial centers. This expansion strengthens SPA’s presence in China, linking key regions with Vietnam’s economic and tourism gateways.

Passengers queue for the Shanghai - Ho Chi Minh City flight. _Photo: SPA_

To celebrate the new route, SPA introduced the "Explore Shanghai" promotional program, offering special fares for passengers planning to visit the city during autumn and towards the end of the year. One-way fares start from VND 2,172 million for travel until the end of October this year, with prices from VND 2,72 million applying under specific program conditions. Tickets are available for booking from 29/9 to 29/10 via the airline's website and app.

To ensure a seamless travel experience for Chinese passengers, SPA has optimized its website and app, integrating popular payment methods in the market: WeChat Pay, Alipay, and UnionPay. Passengers can conveniently book tickets, make payments, and check-in online using the airline's digital platforms.

Looking ahead, SPA plans to further expand its network by launching additional routes from Hanoi and Phu Quoc to Shanghai. The airline is also exploring connections between Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Phu Quoc with other major Chinese cities, including Shenzhen, Beijing, and Chongqing. This strategic vision aims to establish a comprehensive flight network that links key Chinese source markets with Vietnam's vibrant economic and tourism destinations.

Passengers receive welcome gifts from Sun PhuQuoc Airways. _Photo: SPA_

This network expansion is supported by a phased fleet development strategy. Airbus A320/A321 aircraft serve domestic and regional routes, while the A321LR enhances capabilities for medium-haul flights. On 22/9, the airline's first wide-body Airbus A330, registration VN-A969, joined the fleet and began commercial operations in early October. This aircraft type adds significant capacity for longer international routes and enables the airline to adjust operational capabilities according to market demand.

Sun PhuQuoc Airways welcomed its first A330 aircraft in 9/2026. _Photo: SPA_

Last February, SPA signed an order for 40 Boeing 787-9 aircraft, which are expected to form the foundation for long-haul network development in the next stage. SPA aims to increase its fleet size to 33 aircraft by late 2026, including five A330s, and target 100 aircraft by 2030. With new routes to Chengdu and Shanghai, alongside plans for expanded connections to other Chinese cities, SPA is systematically building a flight network tailored to travel demands between the two countries. Increasing frequency and destinations, supported by an expanding fleet, will create more opportunities for business and tourism passenger growth, enhancing connectivity between Vietnam and China.

Thai Anh