Phnom Penh, Cambodia – Air Cambodia, the national flag carrier, is set to boost its operational capacity and regional connectivity with the delivery of three brand-new ATR 72-600 aircraft in 2025. This fleet expansion marks a major milestone in Cambodia’s aviation development and reflects growing demand for air travel and tourism across Southeast Asia.
The first of the ATR 72-600 aircraft will arrive at Phnom Penh International Airport on May 26, 2025, where a formal welcome ceremony will be held, presided over by H.E. Mao Havannall, Minister in Charge of the State Secretariat of Civil Aviation (SSCA). The second and third aircraft are scheduled for delivery in October and November, respectively.
In a public statement, Cambodia Airports congratulated the airline, saying: “Congratulations to Air Cambodia on their latest ATR 72-600s. A significant step forward in modernising the fleet and expanding regional connectivity.”
The ATR 72-600, a fuel-efficient turboprop designed for short-haul regional routes, is well-suited for domestic and intra-ASEAN services. The aircraft will enhance Air Cambodia’s ability to increase flight frequency and improve service reliability on key routes.
Air Cambodia currently operates both domestic flights and international services to popular destinations such as China, Thailand, and Vietnam. Looking ahead, the airline is planning to launch direct flights to Japan in October 2025, following approval from aviation regulators in both countries. The move is aimed at supporting the rising volume of Japanese tourists and investors traveling to Cambodia.
This strategic expansion aligns with positive trends in Cambodia’s aviation sector. According to the State Secretariat of Civil Aviation, the country’s three international airports recorded 17,434 flights in Q1 2025, a 19% increase compared to the same period in 2024. Passenger traffic rose to 1.96 million, also up 19%, while air cargo volumes grew by 10%, reaching nearly 20,000 tonnes.
The new aircraft and upcoming routes reaffirm Air Cambodia’s role in connecting the Kingdom with regional and international markets, while also contributing to the broader growth of Cambodia’s tourism and investment landscape. The airline’s commitment to modernisation and service expansion underscores its vision to become a leading carrier in the ASEAN region.
