Cambodia, India strengthen air connectivity with launch of Kolkata–Siem Reap direct flights

SIEM REAP, Cambodia (Nov. 12, 2025) — Cambodia and India are set to strengthen air connectivity with the launch of direct flights between Kolkata and Siem Reap, operated by Indian carrier IndiGo (6E). The inaugural flight is scheduled to land at Siem Reap–Angkor International Airport on Nov. 13, marking a new chapter in bilateral tourism and economic cooperation.

Secretary of State for State Secretariat of Civil Aviation (SSCA) Chea Aun will preside over the launch ceremony, joined by senior officials from the Ministry of Tourism, IndiGo CEO Pieter Elbers, representatives from airport investor CAIC, and tourism agencies. Around 100 participants are expected to attend the event, according to Sinn Chanserey Vutha,  a spokesperson of State Secretariat of SSCA.

He said that the new route will operate three times a week—on Mondays, Thursdays and Saturdays—using Airbus A320neo aircraft. It complements existing Cambodia–India services, including Air Cambodia’s twice-weekly flights between Phnom Penh and New Delhi.

IndiGo CEO Pieter Elbers said the new service reflects the airline’s commitment to expanding international connectivity. “We are pleased to commence operations between Kolkata and Siem Reap, enhancing accessibility to one of Southeast Asia’s most iconic cultural destinations,” Elbers said in an Oct. 1 press release. “This route will not only cater to leisure travelers but also strengthen economic and cultural ties between India and Cambodia.”

Officials said the route reflects growing diplomatic and economic ties between the two countries, supported by easier visa procedures and rising travel demand. IndiGo had previously planned direct flights from New Delhi and Mumbai to Siem Reap but postponed the launch due to global economic conditions and fluctuating market demand.

With Kolkata and Siem Reap both serving as strategic tourism hubs, the new service is expected to boost cultural exchange, trade, and regional integration under ASEAN–India air transport frameworks and the Belt and Road Initiative.