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Cambodia’s Aviation Sector Gains Momentum with New Routes from Emirates and Turkish Airlines Cambodia’s Aviation Sector Gains Momentum with New Routes from Emirates and Turkish Airlines

Cambodia’s aviation industry is showing signs of recovery as Emirates and Turkish Airlines introduce new international routes, signaling growing confidence in the market despite its slower rebound compared to regional counterparts. These developments are expected to boost connectivity and attract more international travelers to the Southeast Asian nation, particularly to its iconic cultural and historical sites.

Emirates Expands to Siem Reap

Starting June 3, 2025, Emirates will launch a three-weekly service to Siem Reap, operating via Bangkok from Dubai with its Boeing 777-300ER aircraft. This marks Emirates’ second destination in Cambodia, complementing its existing flights to Phnom Penh. The new route is expected to attract long-haul leisure travelers to Angkor Wat, one of Asia’s most visited UNESCO World Heritage sites and a major draw for international tourists.

Siem Reap, known for its ancient temples and rich cultural heritage, has long been a key destination for global travelers. Emirates’ expansion to this city is a strategic move to tap into the growing demand for leisure travel, particularly from Europe and the Middle East. The airline’s enhanced connectivity will provide travelers with more convenient options to explore Cambodia’s cultural treasures.

Turkish Airlines Enters Phnom Penh

Meanwhile, Turkish Airlines is strengthening its presence in Southeast Asia with the launch of flights to Phnom Penh on December 10, 2025. The Istanbul-based carrier will operate three weekly flights, also via Bangkok, making Phnom Penh its 11th destination in the region. This new route is expected to enhance Cambodia’s connectivity with Europe and other parts of the world, providing a boost to both tourism and business travel.

Turkish Airlines’ entry into Cambodia comes at a crucial time for the country’s aviation market, which has been recovering more slowly than its neighbors. The airline’s extensive global network and reputation for quality service are likely to attract a diverse range of travelers, further supporting Cambodia’s tourism recovery efforts.

Challenges and Opportunities in Cambodia’s Aviation Sector

Despite these positive developments, Cambodia’s aviation sector continues to face challenges. In 2024, the country welcomed 6.7 million international tourists, with Thailand (2.1 million), Vietnam (1.3 million), and China (848,952) as the top source markets. While Chinese arrivals surged by 55% year-on-year, they remain significantly below pre-pandemic levels, when China accounted for 2.36 million visitors in 2019.

According to OAG Schedules Analyser data, Cambodia’s total seat capacity in 2024 reached just 53% of 2019 levels, the weakest recovery in the region. However, the 4.57 million departure seats recorded in 2024 reflect a 120% increase from 2023, indicating steady progress. Thailand remains Cambodia’s largest international market, accounting for 27% of all international seats, followed by Vietnam and China.

These figures highlight the need for continued efforts to diversify Cambodia’s tourism markets and improve its aviation infrastructure. The introduction of new routes by Emirates and Turkish Airlines is a step in the right direction, offering greater accessibility and encouraging more international visitors to explore Cambodia’s unique attractions.