Airports in Cambodia – Past, Present, and Future
Cambodia’s aviation history reflects its rapid transformation over the past century, from its early colonial airstrips to its modern international airports. Today, Cambodia is home to a growing number of airports that link it with the rest of Southeast Asia and beyond.
As Cambodia continues to develop, its airports are crucial to the tourism, business, and investment sectors. Let’s take a closer look at the past, present, and future of Cambodia’s airports, including the exciting developments currently reshaping the country’s aviation landscape.
The Past: Cambodia’s Early Aviation Days
Cambodia’s aviation story began in the 20th century, with its first airstrips built during the French colonial period. These airstrips were rudimentary at best, serving mostly the needs of French administrators and military personnel.
The real milestone came in 1965 when Phnom Penh International Airport (then Pochentong International) opened. This was Cambodia’s first major airport, and it symbolized a modernizing nation under King Norodom Sihanouk’s rule. Regular flights connected Phnom Penh to Paris and other global destinations, serving an elite group of diplomats, expatriates, and wealthy Cambodians.
However, the rise of the Khmer Rouge in the 1970s, followed by years of civil war, devastated Cambodia’s infrastructure, including its airports. Air travel was severely restricted, with Phnom Penh International essentially closed to commercial flights. The country’s air transport capabilities only began to recover in the 1990s as peace returned and tourism began to flourish again.
The Present: Cambodia’s Major Airports
Cambodia today boasts three key international airports, with domestic airfields scattered across the country. These airports are the backbone of Cambodia’s growing tourism industry, providing essential connections to the wider region.
Phnom Penh International Airport (Pochentong)
As the country’s largest and busiest airport, Phnom Penh International handles millions of passengers each year. Located just 10 kilometers from the city center, it is a hub for both international and domestic travel, with flights to major destinations like Bangkok, Singapore, and Kuala Lumpur. In the last decade, the airport underwent significant upgrades, including an expanded terminal and modernized facilities, cementing its place as Cambodia’s key gateway.
Siem Reap–Angkor International Airport (New Airport)
Siem Reap’s new airport, officially opened in October 2023, is Cambodia’s largest and most modern airport. Located 51 kilometers outside Siem Reap, this new facility replaced the old Siem Reap International, which was too close to the Angkor Archaeological Park. The new Siem Reap–Angkor International has the capacity to handle 7 million passengers annually, with expansion plans targeting up to 10 million. The state-of-the-art airport offers increased capacity and more international routes, ensuring Siem Reap remains a top tourist destination, particularly for visitors flocking to Angkor Wat.
Sihanoukville International Airport
Sihanoukville International has seen rapid growth in recent years, largely due to increased Chinese investment in the city. What was once a small regional airport now accommodates international flights from countries such as China, Vietnam, and Thailand. Although the pandemic caused a brief slowdown, Sihanoukville’s growing role as an investment hub means the airport is likely to continue expanding.
The Future: Cambodia’s Expanding Aviation Network
Cambodia is not resting on its laurels. Several exciting projects are underway, which will reshape the country’s aviation infrastructure, expand tourism opportunities, and improve regional connectivity.
Koh Kong’s Two New Airports
Koh Kong Province, located along Cambodia’s southwestern coast, is set to become a major aviation hub with two new airport projects. The first is an international airport in the Dara Sakor development zone, aimed at boosting tourism and investment in this emerging area. This airport, funded by Chinese developers, is expected to cater to international tourists looking for a more exclusive experience in Cambodia’s unspoiled coastal areas.
The second airport in Koh Kong will be a smaller, domestic airfield that provides better connections to Phnom Penh and other parts of the country. This will help alleviate the pressure on road and sea transport, which can be time-consuming, especially for visitors aiming to explore Koh Kong’s pristine national parks.
Techo Takhmao International Airport (New Phnom Penh Airport)
One of the largest airport projects in Southeast Asia, Techo Takhmao International is under construction about 30 kilometers from Phnom Penh. Set to open in 2025, this new airport will be able to handle up to 13 million passengers annually in its first phase. Once operational, it will take over the bulk of international traffic from the existing Phnom Penh International, which will likely serve more domestic and regional routes.
Kampong Chhnang Airport
Kampong Chhnang has a fascinating, somewhat mysterious history when it comes to aviation. Initially built during the Khmer Rouge era as a secret airbase, it was meant for military use. Over the years, it has remained dormant, with various governments contemplating its future. There are ongoing discussions about reviving Kampong Chhnang as a domestic airport (https://www.cambodialifestyle.com/dark-tourism-kampong-chhnang-airport/) or even as a military facility again. If redeveloped, it could play an essential role in increasing connectivity to Cambodia’s central provinces.
Battambang Airport
While still in the planning stages, there have been calls to upgrade Battambang’s existing airfield to a fully operational airport. Battambang is one of Cambodia’s largest cities and a growing tourism destination. A functioning airport here would greatly reduce travel times from Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, helping the city tap into the tourist market more effectively.
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Conclusion: Cambodia’s Aviation Future is Bright
Cambodia’s airports are in the midst of a transformative phase. From new international hubs like the Siem Reap–Angkor International Airport to the planned Techo Takhmao International in Phnom Penh, the country is gearing up to support more tourists, more businesses, and better connectivity than ever before.
The expansion of air travel infrastructure is vital for Cambodia’s continued growth, both economically and culturally. As tourism rebounds and new opportunities for trade and investment arise, Cambodia’s airports are positioning the country for a bright future in Southeast Asia’s dynamic aviation market.
Whether you’re a frequent visitor to Angkor Wat or exploring the coastlines of Koh Kong, Cambodia’s airports will continue to play a pivotal role in shaping your travel experience. The future is certainly airborne for Cambodia.
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Author: Gareth Johnson
Gareth Johnson is the founder of Young Pioneer Tours and has visited over 180+ countries. His passion is opening obscure destinations to tourism and sharing his experience of street food.
