Cambodia’s Air Cargo Surges 29% in First Half Of 2026 Despite Softer Passenger Traffic

PHNOM PENH, July 15, 2026 (KPT) – Cambodia’s civil aviation sector recorded a strong rebound in air freight during the first half of 2026, with cargo volume rising 29 percent year‑on‑year even as passenger traffic fell and aircraft movements remained flat, official data showed Tuesday.

The State Secretariat of Civil Aviation said the country’s three international airports – Techo International, Siem Reap Angkor and Sihanouk – handled 47,627 tonnes of cargo between January and June, compared with 36,900 tonnes a year earlier.

During the same period, Cambodia recorded 32,306 aircraft movements, unchanged from 2025, while passenger traffic dropped 7 percent to 3.27 million travelers. Overflights continued to grow, increasing 4 percent to 44,991 movements.

Sinn Chansereyvutha, a spokesman for SSCA said the sharp rise in cargo despite stable aircraft activity suggests more dedicated cargo flights or greater use of belly‑hold capacity on passenger aircraft. The trend reflects stronger supply chains and expanding e‑commerce.

Monthly data showed that in June, aircraft movements fell 4 percent from May to 4,463, while passenger traffic dropped 11 percent to 395,213. Cargo rose 2 percent to 8,676 tonnes, while overflights increased 3 percent to 7,289.

Vutha said seasonal factors explain the month‑on‑month decline in passengers, stressing year‑on‑year comparisons as a better indicator of performance.

Cambodia currently has 33 airlines operating scheduled services, including four national carriers. Techo International Airport now accounts for 70 percent of weekly movements, reinforcing its role as the country’s main gateway.

Officials called for closer coordination among aviation, tourism and airport sectors to attract new markets and expand direct connectivity to provincial destinations.