Cambodia Moves to Ratify Aviation Deals to Expand Global Flight Links

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (Nov. 26, 2025) — Cambodia is preparing to expand its global air connectivity as the State Secretariat of Civil Aviation seeks government approval for three major aviation agreements with the European Union, China and ASEAN.

The SSCA said draft laws required to ratify the agreements have been completed under the leadership of Mao Havannall, minister in charge of the agency, and will soon be submitted to the Council of Ministers for review.

The first agreement awaiting ratification is the ASEAN–EU Comprehensive Air Transport Agreement, which is expected to deepen cooperation between Cambodia and member states of both regions. Officials said the deal would expand traffic rights, open new routes and strengthen Cambodia’s aviation reputation while creating opportunities for investment, tourism and cultural exchange.

A second agreement involves the Third Protocol under the ASEAN–China Air Transport framework, which expands Fifth Freedom traffic rights. Cambodia expects the protocol to boost international air activity, attract more Chinese and regional travelers and stimulate broader economic and cultural ties. It also allows airlines to operate more flexible routes through ASEAN territories and supports deeper cooperation in aviation infrastructure.

The third measure concerns ratification of the 11th and 12th service packages under the ASEAN Framework Agreement on Services, further aligning Cambodia’s aviation sector with regional standards and liberalization efforts.
Together, the agreements reflect Cambodia’s strategy to modernize its aviation sector and position itself as an emerging regional air transport hub.

SSCA spokesperson Sinn Chansereyvutha said the collective impact of the agreements marks a milestone for Cambodia’s aviation industry. “Expanding international cooperation and strengthening the country’s regulatory and operational framework will help Cambodia unlock new flight connections, attract more tourists and investors, and directly support the country’s long-term economic development strategy,” he said.

The draft laws now await consideration by the Council of Ministers, marking a step toward implementing Cambodia’s open-sky policy and advancing its ambition to enhance global connectivity.