Old Siem Reap International Airport to Become a New Multi Functional Development Zone
The former Siem Reap International Airport is preparing for a major transformation after years of serving as one of Cambodia’s key aviation gateways. In early August 2026, Angkor International Airport Investment (Cambodia) Co., Ltd. (AIAI), the developer behind Siem Reap Angkor International Airport, announced plans to redevelop the former airport site into a modern multi functional development zone in Siem Reap Province. The project aims to give new life to the historic airport while creating fresh opportunities for tourism, business, entertainment, and economic growth.
The announcement was made during a meeting between Cambodia’s Minister of Tourism, H.E. Huot Hak, and Mr. Lu Wei, Chairman of Angkor International Airport Investment (Cambodia) Co., Ltd. The discussion focused on strengthening tourism, expanding air connectivity, and encouraging more investment in Siem Reap, one of Cambodia’s most important tourism destinations. The redevelopment reflects a broader effort to maximize the value of the former airport after operations moved to the new Siem Reap Angkor International Airport.
A New Vision for the Former Airport Site
According to Mr. Lu Wei, the redevelopment project will convert the old airport into a vibrant mixed use destination that combines tourism services, commercial activities, entertainment facilities, and various economic projects. Instead of leaving the site unused, the company plans to transform it into a dynamic area that supports both visitors and local businesses while contributing to Siem Reap’s long term economic development.
Minister Huot Hak welcomed the proposal and expressed his support for the project. He encouraged the development team to conduct comprehensive studies and prepare a detailed master plan that prioritizes sustainability, inclusiveness, and long term benefits for the province. The goal is to ensure the redevelopment creates lasting value while complementing Siem Reap’s growing tourism industry.
Preserving the Legacy of a Historic Airport
The former Siem Reap International Airport has played an important role in Cambodia’s aviation history for decades. It first opened in 1932 during the French colonial period and underwent major improvements in 1955 during the Sangkum Reastr Niyum era. In 1970, airport operations were suspended because of the civil conflict in Cambodia before reopening again in 2006 to support the country’s growing tourism sector.
For many years, the airport welcomed millions of international travelers visiting the Angkor Archaeological Park and helped establish Siem Reap as one of Southeast Asia’s leading cultural tourism destinations. Its redevelopment marks the beginning of a new chapter while preserving the significance of its historic role.
Why the Airport Was Closed?
The former airport officially ceased operations on October 16, 2023, when all commercial flights were transferred to the new Siem Reap Angkor International Airport located in Sotr Nikum District. The relocation was designed to protect the ancient Angkor temples from aircraft vibrations while also allowing Cambodia to accommodate larger aircraft and increase international air traffic capacity.
The new airport provides modern infrastructure and greater operational capacity, positioning Cambodia to welcome more international visitors and support future tourism growth. Meanwhile, the redevelopment of the former airport site ensures that the valuable land continues contributing to the province’s economy instead of remaining inactive.
For additional background on Cambodia’s aviation and tourism developments, readers can visit the Ministry of Tourism’s official website and the official website of Siem Reap Angkor International Airport.
What Does This Mean for Cambodia?
The redevelopment of the former Siem Reap International Airport represents more than a simple land conversion. It reflects Cambodia’s strategy of modernizing its infrastructure while creating new economic opportunities from existing assets. By turning the historic airport into a multi functional development zone, Siem Reap could attract more investment, generate new jobs, expand tourism services, and strengthen its position as one of the country’s leading economic and tourism hubs.
Conclusion
The transformation of the former Siem Reap International Airport into a multi functional development zone signals a new era for one of Cambodia’s most recognizable aviation landmarks. While the new Siem Reap Angkor International Airport continues to serve international travelers, the historic airport site is expected to find new purpose through tourism, commerce, entertainment, and investment. If implemented successfully, the project could become another major milestone in Siem Reap’s ongoing development and reinforce Cambodia’s vision for sustainable economic growth.