IndiGo Launches First Direct India–Cambodia Flights in November, Boosting Tourism and Trade Ties

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (Oct. 22, 2025) — IndiGo Airlines has launched its first direct flight service between India and Cambodia, connecting Kolkata to Siem Reap three times a week. The new route, which began operations on Novemebr 13, is operated with Airbus A320neo aircraft and marks a significant milestone in strengthening bilateral tourism and trade.

Pieter Elbers, CEO of IndiGo, said the service will enhance connectivity and promote cultural exchange, noting Siem Reap’s global appeal as home to the Angkor Wat temple complex. Indian travelers can benefit from Cambodia’s visa-on-arrival and e-visa options, making travel more accessible.

India is one of Cambodia’s fastest-growing tourism markets. In 2024, over 75,000 Indian tourists visited Cambodia, drawn by its heritage sites and expanding hospitality sector. The new flight route is expected to further boost arrivals, especially as Cambodia targets 7 million international visitors by 2026.

Trade between the two countries has also grown steadily, with bilateral trade reaching over $500 million in 2024. Key exports include textiles, pharmaceuticals, and agricultural products. The direct air link is expected to facilitate business travel, improve cargo logistics, and deepen economic cooperation between India and Cambodia.

Cambodia welcomed more than 5.1 million air travelers in the first nine months of 2025, a 14% increase compared to the same period last year, according to the State Secretariat of Civil Aviation.

From January through September, the country recorded 47,637 inbound and outbound flights, up 12% year-on-year. Air cargo volume also rose 14%, surpassing 60,000 tons.

State Secretary and spokesman Sinn Chansereyvutha attributed the growth to a strong rebound in outbound Chinese tourism, sustained regional demand from Thailand, Vietnam, South Korea, and Japan, and the easing of travel restrictions. He also cited the recovery and expansion of airline operations.

The government expects four new airlines—IndiGo, Firefly, Air Busan, and T’way—to begin operations by the end of 2025. Passenger traffic is forecast to reach 7.5 million, with air cargo projected to hit 80,000 tons.