Cambodia's tourism rapidly soared after the launch of the new TECHO International Airport

PHNOM PENH, CAMBODIA – Cambodia’s tourism sector is poised for a significant boost, with new data and a landmark expansion of air connectivity signaling a transformative era for the Kingdom of Cambodia. This growth is underpinned by the launch of the new Techo International Airport  and the Siem Reap-Angkor International Airport, which are redefining Cambodia’s aviation capacity.

According to data from Cirium, a leading aviation analytics service provider, Cambodia is projected to welcome 31,579 flights in 2025, marking a 14.2% increase from the previous year. Available passenger seats are also expected to soar by 14.7%, reaching over 5.18 million.

"This strong rise in both flights and seat capacity underscores Cambodia’s growing prominence as one of Asia’s most dynamic and rapidly expanding travel destinations,” the report stated.

This year has also seen a new milestone with the entry of three major Middle Eastern carriers—Emirates, Turkish Airlines, and Etihad Airways—launching new routes to Cambodia.

"Their arrival marks the most substantial enhancement of Cambodia’s global air connectivity in decades, linking the Kingdom directly with some of the world’s most important aviation hubs,” said the Cambodia Tourism Board (CTB) in a statement. "This complements route expansion between Cambodia and China, as well as other key global connections."

Kim Minea, CEO of the Cambodia Tourism Board, highlighted the confidence these developments represent. “The strong growth in our aviation sector, together with the arrival of world-class carriers, sends a powerful signal of confidence from airlines, investors, and travelers alike,” Minea said. “This milestone also reaffirms that world-class airlines and investors remain confident in Cambodia’s long-term potential, its welcoming and vibrant environment, and its enduring peace, safety, and stability.”

Echoing this sentiment, Naveen P, a tourism consultant, emphasized the role of new airport infrastructure. "The Techo International Airport will certainly do wonders for Cambodian tourism," he said. "The entry of three leading global carriers will enhance the Kingdom’s connectivity not only with the Middle Eastern nations but also with Europe, which is one of the highest sources for inbound tourism in the region."

The Ministry of Tourism (MoT) of Cambodia reported that Cambodia has already welcomed over 3.36 million international tourists in the first half of 2025, a 6.2% increase over the same period last year. Of these, over 1.42 million visitors arrived by air, with the remaining traveling by land and waterways.

The Ministry of Tourism (MoT) of Cambodia noted that visitors have been flocking to popular destinations like Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, coastal areas, and eco-tourism zones. With its enhanced connectivity and new infrastructure, Cambodia is well-positioned to attract even more travelers and solidify its place as a top global destination.