Cambodia’s Aviation Sector Records Strong Growth in Early 2025 as New Airport Set to Launch
Cet article n’est pas encore disponible en français. Vous lisez la version originale en anglais.
Cambodia’s aviation industry continues to soar, with passenger traffic, flight frequency, and air cargo volumes registering impressive growth during the first four months of 2025. According to a recent report from the State Secretariat of Civil Aviation (SSCA), the country’s three international airports—Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and Preah Sihanouk—handled 22,686 flights and welcomed over 2.52 million passengers from January to April 2025.
Double-Digit Growth in Flights and Passenger Traffic
The total number of flights during the period marked a 17% year-on-year increase, while the number of passengers rose by 18% compared to the same period in 2024. Air cargo volume also saw an 8% rise, reaching 22,350 tonnes.
In April 2025 alone, Cambodia recorded 5,252 flights, a nearly 12% increase over April 2024. Passenger volume reached 564,573, marking a 15% growth, while cargo throughput stood at 5,202 tonnes, a modest 3% rise.
Key International Connections and Airlines
SSCA spokesperson Sinn Chanserey Vutha confirmed that Cambodia now maintains international flight connections with 12 countries, covering 34 global cities. The country’s skies are served by four domestic airlines and 28 international carriers.
The top six countries contributing the highest air traffic and passenger volume to Cambodia include:
- Thailand
- China
- Vietnam
- Singapore
- Malaysia
- South Korea
These countries form the backbone of Cambodia’s international aviation network, supporting its growing connectivity and tourism revival.
Techo International Airport to Begin Trial Operations in July 2025
A major milestone in Cambodia’s aviation development is the scheduled launch of Techo International Airport on July 10, 2025. The airport, classified as category 4F, is designed to handle large, long-haul aircraft such as the Airbus A380-800 and Boeing 747-800. It is set to replace Phnom Penh International Airport and significantly enhance the country’s air transport capacity.
Techo International Airport will be developed in three phases:
- Phase 1 (2020–2030): Capacity of 15 million passengers annually
- Phase 2 (2030–2050): Capacity expansion to 30 million passengers
- Phase 3 (post-2050): Final capacity of 45 million passengers
This development marks a strategic effort by the Royal Government of Cambodia to position the country as a regional aviation hub and support its long-term tourism and business objectives.
2024 Aviation Performance Sets Strong Foundation
The momentum seen in early 2025 builds upon a robust performance in 2024. Cambodia’s three international airports collectively handled:
- 58,354 flights, a 14% increase over 2023
- 6,241,842 passengers, up 22%
- 77,752 tonnes of air cargo, reflecting a 40% rise
These statistics reflect the successful post-pandemic recovery of Cambodia’s aviation sector, bolstered by growing international partnerships, enhanced airport infrastructure, and strategic investments in tourism.
