SIHANOUKVILLE, Cambodia – A new direct air link between the coastal city of Preah Sihanouk and Chengdu, China, officially commenced operations on Wednesday, January 21, 2026. This strategic route is expected to significantly bolster international connectivity and cater to the rising travel demand between southwestern China and Cambodia’s primary beach destination.
The inaugural service, operated by Cambodia Airways, connects Sihanouk International Airport (KOS) with Chengdu Tianfu International Airport (TFU). By removing the need for traditional regional hubs, the direct connection slashes travel time to approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, offering a seamless experience for both business and leisure travelers.
Flight Schedule and Operations
According to aviation authorities, the route is scheduled to operate three times per week on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays.
| Flight Leg | Departure Time | Arrival Time |
| Preah Sihanouk to Chengdu | 9:00 AM | 1:30 PM (Local Time) |
| Chengdu to Preah Sihanouk | 2:30 PM | 5:20 PM (Local Time) |
This morning-departure and evening-return structure is designed to maximize time for travelers, aligning with Cambodia’s broader strategy to position Preah Sihanouk as a leading regional investment and hospitality hub.
Beyond Tourism: A Push for “Regenerative Travel”
While the new flight route facilitates easier access, local stakeholders are increasingly focusing on the environmental impact of increased visitor numbers. Coinciding with the expansion of coastal tourism, the Knai Bang Chatt resort in nearby Kep has launched “The Regenerative Stay” initiative for 2026.
Restoring the Mangrove Ecosystem
Under this program, every booking at the resort triggers the planting of 10 mangrove seedlings along the Kep coastline. The initiative, carried out in partnership with Marine Conservation Cambodia (MCC), aims to move beyond simple carbon offsetting to active ecosystem restoration.
- Ecological Impact: Each mangrove tree is estimated to sequester approximately 308kg of $CO_2$ over a 25-year lifespan.
- Coastal Protection: Mangroves serve as natural barriers against storm surges and prevent coastal erosion.
- Biodiversity: The restoration creates vital breeding grounds for marine species, supporting the livelihoods of local fishing communities.
“Regeneration only works when people are invited to be part of it,” stated Jef Moons, founder of Knai Bang Chatt. “This program ensures that the growth in visitor numbers directly strengthens, rather than strains, Cambodia’s natural assets.”
Strategic Outlook
The combination of improved air access from major Chinese markets and a shift toward regenerative tourism practices marks a new chapter for Cambodia’s coast. With China remaining a critical source market, authorities hope these direct links—paired with a pilot visa exemption scheme for Chinese nationals (running June to October 2026)—will drive sustainable economic growth through the end of the year.
Also read, Cambodia Air Passenger Traffic Nears 7 Million in 2025
