In a monumental leap forward for Cambodian tourism, the construction of the Koh Rong International Eco-Tourism Airport has commenced on Koh Rong Island. This milestone represents a significant stride towards transforming the island into a world-class eco-tourism destination, further solidifying Cambodia’s position on the global tourism map.
The State Secretariat of Civil Aviation has confirmed that earthworks for the first phase of the airport’s construction are now underway. The Royal Group, a prominent Cambodian conglomerate, is the primary owner and developer behind this ambitious project. After successfully addressing social impact concerns with local residents and completing due diligence with local and national authorities, the Royal Group has shifted into full construction mode.
The Koh Rong International Eco-Tourism Airport, classified as a Level 4C airport, is strategically located within the Koh Rong Development Zone. This colossal undertaking is backed by an investment of approximately $300 million, reflecting the Royal Group’s unwavering commitment to boosting Cambodia’s tourism sector.
Upon completion, this airport will become Cambodia’s fourth operational airport, joining the ranks of Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and Sihanoukville airports. The initial phase is projected to be finalized within five years, with plans for an expansive second phase already in place.
The Royal Group’s decision to embark on this transformative journey was catalyzed by a 99-year lease agreement signed in February 2008. This agreement granted the Royal Group Co., Ltd., a substantial portion of Koh Rong Island, enabling the development of the island into a thriving commercial and ecotourism hub. Crucially, the agreement also mandated the inclusion of airport infrastructure to bolster the island’s economic growth.
The commitment to Koh Rong’s development has been evident through various ventures, including the construction of The Royal Sands Koh Rong, a luxurious five-star hotel completed in 2018 with a total investment of $40 million. This hotel, developed in collaboration with regional tourism group Asian Trails, is a testament to the Royal Group’s dedication to enhancing the island’s hospitality sector.
Furthermore, the Royal Group has invested significantly in infrastructure, constructing over 130 kilometers of new roads across the island. These expansive main roads, with widths of 50 or 30 meters, lay the foundation for sustainable growth on Koh Rong. The island is guided by a sustainable city master plan, ensuring that eco-friendly development remains at the forefront.
In February 2023, a pivotal Memorandum of Understanding was inked between the State Secretariat of Cambodian Civil Aviation and Royal Group Koh Rong Development Company, officially accepting the master plan for the ‘Koh Rong International Eco-Tourism Airport.’
Despite the involvement of various private shareholders, the State Secretariat of Civil Aviation (SSCA) will oversee the airport’s operations, aligning with Cambodia’s commitment to effective governance and regulation.
Mao Havannall, Minister in Charge of the State Secretariat of Cambodian Civil Aviation, emphasized that this airport development aligns seamlessly with the Royal Government of Cambodia’s vision, plan, policy, and strategic direction. He highlighted that the project is a private sector investment and will follow the Build-Own-Operate (BOO) framework, functioning as a Design-Build-Finance-Operate-Maintain (DBFOM) project within the approved master plan.
In collaboration with the privately owned Royal Group, the Royal Government of Cambodia aims to elevate Koh Rong into a world-class resort destination. Mao Havannall underlined, “This project is in line with the vision, plan, policy, and strategic direction of the Royal Government of Cambodia.”
Upon the completion of the first phase, the airport is anticipated to serve approximately 138,000 passengers annually. In ten years, phase two is scheduled for completion, further expanding the airport’s capacity to accommodate up to 266,000 passengers each year.
The terminal’s design will reflect grandeur, with a total area of 4,000 square meters in the first phase and a substantial expansion to 7,000 square meters in Phase II.
The Koh Rong International Eco-Tourism Airport signifies a pivotal moment in Cambodia’s tourism journey, opening doors to enhanced accessibility and showcasing the island’s natural beauty while ensuring sustainable growth and development for years to come.
Source: Khmer Times
