New International Routes Boost Cambodia Aviation
Cambodia’s aviation sector is set to soar as major carriers introduce exciting new international routes, signaling renewed confidence in the market. Despite a slower recovery compared to some regional neighbors, new services from Emirates and Turkish Airlines underscore a growing optimism for Cambodia’s connectivity and tourism potential.
Emirates Launches Siem Reap Service
Starting June 3, Emirates will launch a three-times-weekly service to Siem Reap, Cambodia’s gateway to the world-famous Angkor Wat temple complex. Operating via Bangkok from its Dubai hub, the service will be flown using Boeing 777-300ER aircraft. This new route marks Emirates’ second destination in Cambodia, joining its existing flights to Phnom Penh. The move is expected to attract long-haul leisure travelers eager to explore Angkor Wat, one of Asia’s most visited UNESCO World Heritage sites, and benefit from Emirates’ renowned in-flight comfort and service.
Turkish Airlines Expands to Phnom Penh
Further bolstering Cambodia’s international links, Turkish Airlines is set to begin flights to Phnom Penh on December 10. The Istanbul-based carrier will operate three weekly flights, also connecting via Bangkok, making Phnom Penh its 11th destination in the region. This expansion is a key part of Turkish Airlines’ strategy to strengthen its presence in Southeast Asia and offer more options for both leisure and business travelers seeking to explore Cambodia’s rich cultural heritage and emerging economic landscape.
Sector Recovery Amid Market Challenges
The introduction of these routes comes at a critical time for Cambodia’s aviation market, which has been recovering more slowly than some of its regional counterparts. In 2024, the country welcomed 6.7 million international tourists, with Thailand, Vietnam, and China representing its top source markets. Although Chinese arrivals surged by 55% year on year, they still lag behind the 2.36 million recorded in 2019. According to OAG Schedules Analyser data, Cambodia’s total seat capacity in 2024 reached only 53% of pre-pandemic levels—the weakest recovery in the region. Nevertheless, the 4.57 million departure seats recorded in 2024 represent a 120% increase over 2023 figures.
Ramping Up Capacity on Cambodia-China Routes
While overall capacity remains below pre-pandemic levels on Cambodia-China routes, several Chinese airlines have already begun ramping up services. Spring Airlines, for example, launched daily Chengdu Tianfu–Phnom Penh flights in January and later increased frequency on its Shanghai Pudong and Guangzhou routes. Similarly, Xiamen Airlines started a thrice-weekly service between Fuzhou and Phnom Penh in February. Cambodian carriers are also expanding, with Air Cambodia set to launch a three-times-weekly Phnom Penh–Shenzhen route on May 27, while AirAsia Cambodia makes its first moves into international expansion with new services to Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Kuala Lumpur, and Singapore.
Emirates and Beyond: Expanding Asia Connectivity
In addition to its new Siem Reap service, Emirates is also broadening its footprint in Asia. The carrier recently announced two additional routes: a four-times-weekly service to Da Nang, Vietnam, beginning June 2, and a daily route to Shenzhen, China, commencing on July 1. These strategic expansions not only boost connectivity across Asia but also enhance Cambodia’s position as an emerging hub for international travel.
With these new routes, Cambodia’s aviation sector is poised for a significant turnaround. As airlines like Emirates and Turkish Airlines invest in expanding their networks, the country stands to benefit from increased tourism and strengthened global connectivity—paving the way for a vibrant recovery and sustained growth in the years ahead.
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