In Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s aviation sector continued to show resilience during the first four months of 2026, handling approximately 2.4 million air passengers despite a slight decline compared to the same period last year. According to a report released by the State Secretariat of Civil Aviation on Friday, the country recorded a 4 percent decrease in passenger traffic, while flight operations and air cargo activity both experienced noticeable growth. The latest figures highlight Cambodia’s ongoing efforts to strengthen regional connectivity and maintain momentum in tourism, trade, and investment.
Officials say the aviation industry remains one of the country’s key economic drivers, helping connect Cambodia with major destinations across Asia, the Middle East, Europe, and beyond. More details about Cambodia’s aviation sector are available through the official State Secretariat of Civil Aviation Cambodia.
Flight Activity and Cargo Volume Continue to Rise
While passenger numbers saw a modest decline, overall flight movements continued to increase steadily across Cambodia’s airports. The report showed that flight operations rose by 2 percent year on year, reaching 23,204 flights during the first four months of 2026.
At the same time, Cambodia experienced a sharp increase in air cargo transportation. Cargo volume surged by 36 percent to 30,448 tonnes, reflecting stronger trade activity and growing demand for faster regional logistics services. Industry observers believe the growth in cargo traffic demonstrates Cambodia’s expanding role in regional supply chains and international commerce.
Aviation Sector Supports Tourism and Investment
SSCA Secretary of State and Spokesperson H.E. Sinn Chanserey Vutha emphasized the important role aviation continues to play in Cambodia’s economic development.
“Improved air connectivity and the increasing number of airlines operating services have made travel for businesspeople and tourists to Cambodia more convenient,” he said.
According to aviation authorities, Cambodia’s expanding flight network is helping improve access for investors, tourists, and international business travelers. Better connectivity is also supporting stronger socio cultural exchanges between Cambodia and other countries throughout the region.
International Airlines Strengthen Cambodia’s Global Connections
Currently, 33 airlines are operating flights to and from Cambodia, including four domestic carriers and 29 international airlines. Cambodia’s three international airports continue serving as important transportation hubs linking the Kingdom with ASEAN countries, China, South Korea, Japan, India, Qatar, and several other international destinations.
Major global airlines including Qatar Airways, Emirates Airlines, Etihad Airways, and Turkish Airlines continue to play a vital role in connecting Cambodia to Europe, North America, Africa, and the Middle East through their international transit hubs.
The growing network of airlines operating in Cambodia reflects increasing confidence in the country’s tourism and business potential despite ongoing global economic uncertainties.
Cambodia Aviation Sector Reaches Historic Milestone
The latest figures follow a record breaking year for Cambodia’s aviation industry in 2025. According to the SSCA, the country recorded 6.98 million passenger movements last year, marking the highest number ever achieved in Cambodia’s civil aviation history.
Industry experts believe the long term outlook for Cambodia’s aviation sector remains positive as tourism continues recovering and international travel demand strengthens across Southeast Asia. Continued airport development and stronger airline partnerships are also expected to support future growth.
Conclusion
Although Cambodia recorded a slight drop in passenger traffic during the first months of 2026, the country’s aviation sector continues to demonstrate strong momentum through rising flight activity and booming cargo operations. With expanding airline networks, stronger international connectivity, and growing trade opportunities, Cambodia’s airports remain essential gateways supporting tourism, investment, and economic growth across the Kingdom.