Phnom Penh (VNA) – Cambodia marked a major step forward in its aviation development as Prime Minister Hun Manet inaugurated the country’s largest airport, Techo International Airport (TIA), on October 20.
The event symbolised a milestone in Cambodia’s efforts to strengthen regional and global air connectivity.
The 2.3 billion USD facility replaces the old Phnom Penh International Airport, which is now completely closed. Government officials highlighted that the world-class Level-4F TIA, equipped with dual 4 km runways, can accommodate long-haul flights and all types of aircraft, enhancing both passenger and cargo transport.
According to the Cambodian Prime Minister, the new airport will serve as a key driver of economic growth and tourism, attracting more investors and visitors while reinforcing Cambodia’s role as a logistics and transportation hub.
Minister in charge of the State Secretariat of Civil Aviation Mao Havannall described the project as a historic milestone for Cambodia’s civil aviation industry, noting that it will become a crucial bridge connecting the country to the wider world and fostering logistics development.
Developed by the Cambodia Airport Investment Corporation, the airport was built by the China State Construction Engineering Corporation. In its first phase, the project includes a main terminal, airfields, VVIP and general aviation terminals, and other supporting facilities.
Chairman of the Cambodia Airport Investment Corporation Pung Kheav Se said TIA represents both a gateway and a symbol of Cambodia’s aspirations for progress. The airport’s development is planned in three phases, with capacities of 13 million passengers in Phase 1, 30 million in Phase 2, and 50 million in Phase 3.
He noted that Etihad Airways has already started direct flights to TIA since early October, while Turkish Airlines will open a new route from Istanbul to Phnom Penh via TIA in December, further strengthening connections between Cambodia and major cities in the Middle East, Europe, and Africa.
The chairman also expressed delight that Cathay Pacific, a leading international carrier based in Hong Kong (China), had recently selected TIA as an alternative parking location for 13 of its aircraft during Typhoon Ragasa, reflecting the strong confidence international airlines place in the airport’s infrastructure and operational capacity.
Located on a site of more than 2,600 hectares spanning Prek Sleng commune in Kandal Stung district of Kandal province and part of Bati district in Takeo province, the new airport lies about 20 km from Phnom Penh and officially commenced commercial operations on September 9.
With TIA now operational, Cambodia has three international airports in service: Techo International Airport, Siem Reap Angkor International Airport, and Sihanouk International Airport./.
