Cambodia Opens New Siem Reap-Angkor International Airport
Cambodia inaugurates its newly built Siem Reap-Angkor International Airport, tripling passenger capacity to 7 million and boosting tourism infrastructure ahead of Angkor Wat pilgrimages.
Cambodia continues its development drive with the inauguration of the new Siem Reap-Angkor International Airport, a project set to dramatically increase tourist accommodation capacity and bolster the region’s economic potential.
A state-of-the-art gateway for growing visitor numbers
The new facility replaces the decades-old Siem Reap International Airport, designed to serve as a superior gateway to the country’s premier tourist magnet—the Angkor Wat temple complex—located in northwest Siem Reap province. Its opening marks a significant milestone in Cambodia’s tourism expansion.
Commercial operations began in mid-October with a Bangkok Airways flight from Thailand, the first aircraft to land at the new airport.
Sixteen additional flights were scheduled during the launch day alone.
The old airport could handle up to two million passengers annually; the new infrastructure is designed to accommodate seven million passengers per year.
Long-term plans aim to increase capacity to twelve million passengers annually by 2040.
Speaking at an official presentation, Cambodia’s Ministry of Tourism reported nearly 3.5 million international arrivals in the first eight months of 2023, underscoring the vital role that tourism and its supporting infrastructure play in the country’s economic growth. Upgrading and expanding airport capacity is therefore a cornerstone of the government’s strategic development plans.
Formal inauguration scheduled for November with Prime Minister Hun Manet
During the inaugural ceremony marking the start of operations, Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister Vongsey Vissoth announced that the Siem Reap-Angkor International Airport will be officially inaugurated on 16 November by Prime Minister Hun Manet and senior Chinese officials.
The newly commissioned airport joins a parallel initiative: the Techno International Airport in Phnom Penh. Being constructed on a 2,600-hectare site, this new hub is slated for completion in 2024 and will further enhance tourist intake and support Cambodia’s broader economic development.
An international partnership driving Cambodia’s ambitions
Development and operation of the new airports reflect strong collaboration between Cambodian authorities, foreign investors, and local enterprises committed to sustainable growth. This partnership has delivered an ambitious, large-scale project set to benefit visitors and Cambodians alike, fostering sustained growth for years to come.
E-visa success boosts Cambodia’s tourism readiness
A valid e-Visa is required for entry into Cambodia. Entry restrictions related to COVID-19 were lifted on 3 October 2022; neither vaccination proof nor pre-arrival testing is now mandatory.
A passport valid for at least six months upon entry is advised. The tourist e-Visa typically costs around €68, is valid for three months, and permits a 30-day stay; processing is completed within five business days.
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