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Techo International Airport: Cambodia’s Landmark of Progress

Jennie B,
August 18, 2025
Category: Cambodia News
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Updated 9 Sep | Cambodia has officially welcomed the world through a new gateway. On 9 September 2025, Techo International Airport began commercial operations, replacing Phnom Penh International Airport after more than six decades of service. The inaugural flight from Guangzhou landed at 8:00 AM, greeted by aviation leaders in a symbolic moment for the nation’s future. Alongside this, Siem Reap has already launched its own modern airport, another clear sign that the country’s infrastructure is keeping pace with its ambitions. Its opening is a milestone that reflects Cambodia’s rapid economic growth, modern infrastructure, and readiness to connect on a global scale.
Located about 20 kilometers south of Phnom Penh in Kandal Province, the airport spans 2,600 hectares, making it one of the largest in Southeast Asia. In fact, by total area, it is set to become the ninth largest airport in the world, a remarkable achievement that places Cambodia alongside major global hubs.The $1.5 billion project, was developed by Cambodia Airport Investment Co., Ltd. (CAIC), a joint venture between the State Secretariat of Civil Aviation and the Overseas Cambodia Investment Corporation (OCIC), with financing support from the China Development Bank. Together, these partnerships highlight both local commitment and international confidence in Cambodia’s future as a global gateway.

Built for the Future

Designed as a greenfield class 4F facility, it can handle the world’s largest aircraft and will operate with three parallel runways. The design by Foster + Partners combines efficiency with elegance, ombines efficiency with elegance, featuring daylight-filled terminal halls and structural “trees” that support a sweeping steel canopy. Beyond its size and capacity, the airport also emphasizes sustainability and passenger comfort with 22 gates, capacity for 40 aircraft, solar integration, landscaped vertical gardens, and a central green space that brings nature into the terminal. This combination reflects Cambodia’s commitment to modern and sustainable development.Techo International Airport will open with a capacity to handle 13 million passengers annually in its first phase. This will expand to 30 million in Phase 2, and eventually reach 50 million in Phase 3.This expansion reflects Cambodia’s momentum. Before the pandemic, the country maintained GDP growth averaging around 7% per year, among the highest in Asia. With tourism recovery and foreign investment accelerating, the airport ensures Cambodia is equipped to manage the demands of the future.

Regional Context

In Southeast Asia, airports like Suvarnabhumi in Bangkok and Changi in Singapore have long set the benchmark for connectivity and passenger experience. Techo International Airport now positions Cambodia firmly on that same aviation map. While Cambodia’s passenger traffic will remain smaller than those established giants, its scale and modern design demonstrate a readiness to compete regionally and provide travelers with an experience that matches international standards from the moment they arrive.

A Seamless Transition

Phnom Penh International Airport will close to commercial flights on 8 September 2025. From 9 September onward, all flights will operate from Techo International Airport. The move represents the end of an era for Cambodia’s old gateway, and the beginning of a new chapter in global connectivity.

Facts at a Glance

FeatureDetail
Opening Date9 September 2025
Location~20 km south of Phnom Penh
Area~2,600 hectares
Airport ClassGreenfield, ICAO class 4F
RunwaysThree parallel runways
Phase 1 Capacity13 million passengers/year
Future Capacity30 million (Phase 2), 50 million (Phase 3)
ArchitectFoster + Partners
OperatorCambodia Airports (VINCI Airports)
SustainabilityGreen design, solar energy initiatives
Global Standing9th largest airport in the world (by area)
Legacy TransitionPNH closes 8 Sep; TIA opens 9 Sep 2025

Airport Express Bus Service

To make the airport more accessible, the Airport Express Bus began operating on 9 September 2025, linking Techo International Airport to Phnom Penh from 5:30 AM to 11:30 PM daily. The fare is just 1,500 Riels (around US$0.40) with stops at Canadia Park (Railway Station), the Royal University of Law and Economics, BRED Bank on Hun Sen Boulevard, and AEON Mall 3. Travel takes about an hour depending on traffic, providing a reliable and low-cost option for passengers.Visit https://www.techoairport.com.kh/transportation for more information

A New Welcome to Cambodia

For visitors, the experience of Cambodia will now begin in a modern international hub that reflects the nation’s progress. For investors and businesses, it signals confidence in the country’s long-term growth. And for Cambodians, it represents a proud step forward in building the infrastructure of tomorrow.

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