AKP Phnom Penh, September 09, 2025 --

Cambodian Prime Minister Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet this morning welcomed the commencement of operations at Techo International Airport (TIA).

“Welcome the launch of TIA, which will begin providing flight services for national and international travellers, further broadening Cambodia's connection to the world,” he stated on his official social media platforms.

“The aviation sector is one of the main drivers of connectivity for tourists, businesses, political networks, and multi-purpose missions. As a major source of national revenue, it is supported by targeted policies to attract investment, strengthen diplomatic relations, and promote other destinations. Therefore, Cambodia has actively expanded and upgraded its international airports to meet growing travel demand and enhance connectivity for travellers, especially those visiting Cambodia,” he underlined.

The inaugural flight to TIA was operated by the national flag carrier, Air Cambodia (K6 611), followed shortly after by Singapore Airlines (SQ 155). Both flights were warmly welcomed with a ceremony presided over by H.E. Dr. Mao Havannall, Minister in charge of the Secretariat of State for Civil Aviation, with the participation of senior officials and the governors of Phnom Penh capital, and Kandal and Takeo provinces.

The US$1.5 billion TIA, Cambodia’s newest gateway to the world, will be officially inaugurated on Oct. 20, 2025, under the presidency of Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet.

Located on more than 2,600 hectares of land in Prek Sleng commune, Kandal Stung district of Kandal province and partly in Bati district, Takeo province, the new airport lies approximately 20 kilometres from Phnom Penh capital.

As a large-scale 4F international airport, TIA is designed to accommodate long-haul flights from across continents, including Airbus A380-800 and Boeing 747-800 aircraft.

Operations at TIA began following the closure of Phnom Penh International Airport at midnight on Sept. 8, 2025. Korean Air was the last airline to depart from Phnom Penh International Airport, also known as Pochentong Airport.

By Heng Panha