Cambodia Hails Turkish Airlines’ Inaugural Flight Linking Phnom Penh and Istanbul

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (Dec. 11, 2025) — Cambodia marked a milestone in its aviation sector Thursday with the launch of Turkish Airlines’ inaugural scheduled service between Istanbul and Phnom Penh, a route officials say will strengthen connectivity, tourism and trade.

The inaugural direct flight from Istanbul, Republic of Türkiye, landed at Techo International Airport at 2:35 and carried a total of 109 passengers — 84 in Economy Class and 25 in Business Class. On the return flight from Techo International Airport to Istanbul, there were 85 passengers — 77 in Economy Class and 8 in Business Class.

Presiding over the ceremony at Techo International Airport, H.E. Dr. Mao Havannall, minister in charge of the State Secretariat of Civil Aviation, said the new service reflects Cambodia’s growing role as a dynamic and connected nation. The flights will operate three times weekly using Boeing 777‑300ER aircraft.

“This launch is not only an important milestone for our aviation sector, but also a symbol of the deepening friendship and cooperation between Cambodia and Türkiye,” Havannall said. He noted Istanbul’s role as a strategic hub linking Europe, Asia and the Middle East, giving Cambodia more convenient access to global markets and cultural destinations.

The ceremony comes as Cambodia’s tourism sector continues to recover. From January to October 2025, the country welcomed about 4.75 million international visitors, down 11.6 percent year‑on‑year, with China, Vietnam, Thailand, South Korea and the United States among the top source markets. Of those arrivals, 5.66 million international passengers traveled by air, a 14 percent increase compared with the same period in 2024, according to the State Secretariat of Civil Aviation. Officials say the new Turkish Airlines route will help sustain growth in air arrivals and diversify Cambodia’s tourism base.

Havannall said the route supports the Royal Government’s Pentagonal Strategy and National Air Transport Policy, adopted earlier this year, by promoting tourism, attracting investment and facilitating trade. He welcomed Turkish Airlines as the 36th carrier operating in Cambodia, connecting the country directly to 46 cities in 17 nations.

He expressed appreciation to Turkish Airlines, aviation authorities and airport partners for their efforts, adding that the partnership will bring long‑term benefits for both countries.