Cambodia inks aviation deal with China’s COMAC, orders C909 jets for national carrier

SHANGHAI, July 17, 2026 (KPT) – Cambodia signed a strategic aviation cooperation agreement with China’s Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China (COMAC) on Thursday, including a purchase of C909 aircraft for the national carrier Air Cambodia.

The deal was sealed at COMAC headquarters in Shanghai by Dr Mao Havannall, Minister‑in‑Charge of the State Secretariat of Civil Aviation (SSCA), and COMAC Chairman He Dongfeng.

The agreement covers a Memorandum of Understanding on civil aviation cooperation and a purchase contract for 10 C909 aircraft to be delivered to Air Cambodia over five years starting late 2026.

Cambodia’s aviation authorities said the partnership would boost technology transfer, training, maintenance and technical support, strengthening bilateral cooperation under the “Diamond Cooperation Framework” and China’s Belt and Road Initiative.

Officials said the acquisition marks the first time Cambodia has selected Chinese‑made aircraft for its national fleet, reflecting confidence in China’s aviation technology.

The SSCA described the deal as a milestone that will expand Air Cambodia’s operations, improve connectivity and enhance competitiveness in regional aviation.

The agreement comes as Cambodia seeks to diversify its fleet and expand international air transport links to meet regional and global standards.

Aviation officials said the C909 aircraft would help the carrier improve efficiency and service quality, while supporting Cambodia’s ambition to position itself as a growing hub in Southeast Asia’s aviation market.

Air Cambodia is expected to begin operating the new aircraft from the end of 2026, with deliveries continuing through 2031.