Cambodia Air Cargo Surges 36% Despite Dip in Passenger Traffic

PHNOM PENH, May 15, 2026 (KPT) — Cambodia’s air cargo sector posted strong growth in the first four months of 2026, even as passenger traffic slipped slightly, reflecting continued recovery in regional trade and aviation activity, official data showed Friday.

The State Secretariat of Civil Aviation reported more than 30,000 tonnes of air cargo handled between January and April, a 36 percent increase compared to the same period last year. Over the same period, Cambodia recorded 23,204 two‑way flights, up 2 percent year‑on‑year, while total passenger traffic fell 4 percent to 2.43 million travelers.

Civil Aviation Minister Mao Havannall said the sector remains vital in supporting tourism, trade, investment and regional connectivity. Aviation spokesperson Sin Chansereyvutha attributed resilience to the rebound in outbound Chinese tourism, sustained demand from Thailand, Vietnam, South Korea and Japan, and the restoration of airline capacity alongside easing travel restrictions.

Despite the dip in passenger numbers, officials said the surge in cargo volumes underscored Cambodia’s growing role in regional logistics and air freight connectivity.

In 2025, Cambodia recorded 64,821 two‑way flights, an 11 percent increase from the previous year, while passenger traffic rose 12 percent to nearly seven million. Air cargo volume reached 93,889 tonnes, up 21 percent year‑on‑year.