Cambodia’s Techo International Airport Prepares for First A320 Test Flight Ahead of September Launch

By Leng Deth

PHNOM PENH, August 2025 — Cambodia’s new Techo International Airport (TAI) is preparing for its first Airbus A320 test flight on August 15, marking a major milestone ahead of its official launch on September 9, 2025.

The $2 billion Class 4F facility, located south of Phnom Penh, has completed Phase I construction and is set to replace the current Phnom Penh International Airport as the country’s primary aviation hub. The new airport is designed to accommodate large aircraft, including the Airbus A380 and Boeing 747-800, and will significantly expand Cambodia’s air transport capacity.

Speaking on Friday, Charles Vann is the Director of Cambodia Airport Investment Co., Ltd. (CAIC), the company developing the TIA in Phnom Penh, confirmed that technical trials have already been conducted and the Civil Aviation Authority has issued the necessary operating licenses. “We’re ready for the A320 test flight on August 15, followed by additional trial flights from two newly signed airlines in early September,” he said.

All airlines currently operating at Phnom Penh International Airport are expected to transition to Techo International Airport. Two new carriers have also signed agreements to begin operations once the airport opens.

The launch of Techo International Airport marks a transformative moment for Cambodia’s aviation sector. Officials say the facility will be six times larger than the current airport and is poised to become a regional air transport hub, meeting international standards for safety, efficiency, and sustainability.

Despite global fuel price volatility and rising operational costs, Cambodia’s aviation sector has remained resilient. According to Sinn Chanserey Vutha, Secretary of State for Civil Aviation, passenger traffic has continued to grow. In the first half of 2025, Cambodia welcomed over 3.65 million domestic and international air travelers—a 20% increase compared to the same period in 2024.

The Civil Aviation Secretariat projects that air passenger volume will reach 7.5 million and cargo throughput will hit 80,000 tons by the end of 2025.

Techo International Airport has also gained international recognition for its architecture, being named one of the world’s 11 most remarkable airport designs. Its innovative and sustainable layout places it at the forefront of modern aviation infrastructure.