As of the first quarter of 2024, Siem Reap-Angkor International Airport has witnessed a significant increase in the number of direct flights from eight countries. These flights originate from six ASEAN countries, namely Thailand, Vietnam, China, South Korea, India (starting in June), and two others.
Pich Sopondara, responsible for flight development at Siem Reap-Angkor International Airport, confirmed the commencement of direct flights from India in June, which further demonstrates the airport’s expanding network. Presently, the highest number of visitors to the airport comes from neighboring countries Thailand and Vietnam.
The airport now boasts an average of 50 round-trip flights per day, accommodating around 5,000 passengers. Compared to the end of 2023, the first quarter of 2024 witnessed a 5% increase in the number of flights, indicating a growing demand for travel to Siem Reap.
The construction of Siem Reap-Angkor International Airport was initiated in March 2020 by Angkor International Airport Investment (Cambodia) Co., Ltd (AIAI). This development required an investment of approximately US $1.1 billion, following a build-operate-transfer (BOT) investment model. The airport has been designed to meet the requirements of Class 4E, allowing the operation of large aircraft for takeoff and landing.
The increase in direct flights to Siem Reap-Angkor International Airport not only signifies the growth of the airport itself but also highlights the strengthening connectivity between Cambodia and key regional players in the tourism and business sectors. With direct flights from major ASEAN countries and additional connections from India, visitors will now have more convenient access to the world-renowned heritage site of Angkor Wat and the captivating city of Siem Reap.
This expansion in direct flights will contribute to the economic growth of Siem Reap and the surrounding region. It will encourage increased international tourism, boost trade and investment opportunities, and facilitate cultural exchanges between Cambodia and its neighboring countries.
Siem Reap-Angkor International Airport, with its enhanced connectivity, is set to become an even more important transportation hub in the ASEAN region. The influx of travelers will not only benefit the airport and the Siem Reap province but also have a positive impact on the overall economic development of Cambodia.
Source: Khmer Times
