Cambodia’s aviation sector is experiencing a significant uptick in 2024 with the country’s three international airports handling a combined 4.5 million air passengers from January to September, up 22 percent from 3.7 million recorded in the same period last year, according to a report from State Secretariat of Civil Aviation (SSCA).
Cambodia has domestic and foreign airlines operating from its three international airports.
Currently, there are direct flights from eight ASEAN countries, China, South Korea, China’s Hong Kong, China’s Taiwan, India, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates to the Kingdom.
Mao Havannall, Minister in Charge of the State Secretariat of Civil Aviation, said that SSCA will continue with the open sky policy, strengthening aviation safety and security, and expanding airport infrastructure.
“The launch of direct flights will contribute to the facilitation of air travel by providing better options for air passengers, especially business people and national and international tourists, as well as promoting tourism package services as well,” he said recently.
Under the open sky policy, the Cambodian government’s efforts to improve airport infrastructure and enhance aviation services have also contributed to the sector’s growth.
SSCA is projecting an impressive 67 percent growth in air traffic for the entire year compared to 2019, the pre-pandemic benchmark, said its undersecretary of state and spokesman Sin Chansereyvutha.
“The aviation industry is on a strong recovery path, exceeding our expectations,” Chansereyvutha told Khmer Times.
Currently, Cambodia has three international airports –Phnom Penh International Airport, Siem Reap Angkor International Airport, and Sihanoukville International Airport.
Additionally, another airport located in the coastal province of Koh Kong province, is expected to commence operations in late November for domestic air service.
Havannall also stated the latest progress of airport infrastructure of $1.5-billion Techo International Airport, which is now 85 percent complete and is set for full operation in the first semester of 2025.
Once in operation, the 4F-classified airport will be able to handle 13 million passengers per year.
Source: khmertimeskh
