Cambodia is set to strengthen its global air links as Emirates and Turkish Airlines prepare to launch new routes to the country. This move signals growing confidence in Cambodia’s aviation sector as the country works to attract more international travelers.
Starting June 3, Emirates will operate three weekly flights to Siem Reap via Bangkok, using a Boeing 777-300ER. This will be the only regular long-haul connection to Siem Reap outside the Asia-Pacific region. Meanwhile, Turkish Airlines will begin three weekly flights to Phnom Penh from December 10, improving Cambodia’s access to European and Middle Eastern travelers.
Tourism Rebound and Changing Travel Patterns
In 2024, Cambodia recorded 6.7 million international visitors, with the majority coming from Thailand (2.1 million), Vietnam (1.3 million), and China (848,952). Notably, Chinese arrivals grew by 55% year-on-year, but Siem Reap has struggled to regain direct flights from China. Before the pandemic, China made up a third of international air traffic to Siem Reap, but today, only one route remains—a three-times-weekly flight to Kunming, operated by China Eastern Airlines.
In contrast, Phnom Penh has recovered more quickly, as business and political travel from China pick up. This suggests that while leisure travel is still lagging, Cambodia’s capital is regaining its importance as a regional hub.
Cambodian Airlines Expanding Their Reach
Local airlines are also stepping up. Air Cambodia (formerly Cambodia Angkor Air) will launch flights to Shenzhen on May 27, along with new services to Bangkok and Phu Quoc. AirAsia Cambodia, which began operations in 2024, has rapidly expanded to Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Kuala Lumpur, and Singapore.
Challenges in Cambodia’s Aviation Sector
Despite these positive developments, Cambodia’s aviation sector is still in recovery mode. The country’s total airline seat capacity in 2024 is at just 53% of pre-pandemic levels, though departure seat capacity has jumped 120% compared to 2023.
Another challenge is changing travel behavior among Chinese tourists. Many are avoiding certain Southeast Asian destinations due to safety concerns, fueled by events like the kidnapping of Chinese actor Wang Xing in Thailand and media portrayals of crime in the region. The Chinese movie No More Bets, which was banned in Cambodia, also contributed to fears of scams and crime.
A Step Toward Stronger Global Connections
With major international airlines returning and local carriers expanding, Cambodia’s aviation sector is making progress. The addition of Emirates and Turkish Airlines could help revive long-haul travel and support tourism growth.
However, to fully recover, Cambodia needs to rebuild direct connections with China, address safety concerns, and ensure that its tourism sector remains competitive. While challenges remain, the country is taking important steps toward regaining its place as a key travel destination in the region.
