Cambodia is taking decisive steps to strengthen its international aviation footprint as the State Secretariat of Civil Aviation (SSCA) finalises three major draft laws designed to significantly expand the Kingdom’s global air connectivity. These drafts soon to be reviewed by the Council of Ministers, reflect the government’s commitment to broadening international air routes and aligning with its open-sky aviation policy. According to the SSCA, this legislative progress represents a strategic milestone in enhancing Cambodia’s global aviation partnerships and improving the country’s long-term competitiveness.
Key Aviation Agreements Aimed at Boosting Regional and Global Cooperation
The three draft laws focus on high-level aviation partnerships with major regional and intercontinental stakeholders. They include the ASEAN–EU Comprehensive Air Transport Agreement, the ASEAN–China Air Transport Framework, and new service commitments under the ASEAN Framework Agreement on Services. Collectively, these frameworks are expected to elevate Cambodia’s aviation standards, widen flight networks, and stimulate investment opportunities across the aviation ecosystem.
Strengthening Ties Through the ASEAN–EU Comprehensive Air Transport Agreement
The first draft law seeks to ratify Cambodia’s participation in the ASEAN–EU Comprehensive Air Transport Agreement, which aims to deepen cooperation between the regions. Officials highlight that the agreement would allow expanded traffic rights, open additional flight routes, and enhance Cambodia’s aviation reputation. Beyond improved connectivity, the agreement is expected to drive investment inflows, uplift tourism activity, and foster cultural exchanges between Cambodia and European partners.
Enhancing Regional Integration via the ASEAN–China Air Transport Framework
The second draft law focuses on the ASEAN–China Air Transport Framework, a protocol expected to increase the flow of Chinese and regional travellers while boosting overall air activity. This framework would give airlines greater flexibility to operate routes across ASEAN territories, strengthening joint aviation infrastructure and catalyzing broader economic and cultural ties. Increased travel frequency and improved operational freedom are anticipated to benefit both Cambodian airlines and international carriers serving the region.
Aligning Aviation Standards Through the ASEAN Framework Agreement on Services
The final draft concerns ratification of the 11th and 12th service packages under the ASEAN Framework Agreement on Services, which further integrates Cambodia’s aviation sector with regional liberalisation objectives. This alignment ensures the Kingdom remains competitive and compatible with ASEAN aviation regulations, while supporting long-term sectoral modernization.
Government Commitment to Expanding Air Routes and Investment Potential
SSCA Secretary of State and spokesman Sinn Chanserey Vutha emphasised that these legal updates are part of Cambodia’s broader ambition to expand global air links.
He stated, “Expanding international cooperation and strengthening regulatory frameworks will unlock new flight connections and support economic development.” His remarks highlight the government’s proactive approach in positioning Cambodia as an emerging regional aviation hub.
Rising International Air Traffic and Long-Term National Aviation Goals
Recent SSCA data underscores the aviation sector’s continuing recovery and momentum. Cambodia’s international airports collectively handled 5.66 million passengers in the first 10 months of this year, an increase of 14 percent year-on-year. This rising demand supports the government’s strategic direction. Earlier this year, the Royal Government approved the National Policy on Air Transport 2025–2035, a roadmap designed to build a sustainable, resilient, and competitive aviation ecosystem. The policy aims to drive Cambodia toward achieving 25 million annual passengers and 205,000 tonnes of cargo by 2035, while improving connectivity at local, regional, and global levels.