Cambodia has opened the largest airport: designed for 13 million passengers.

According to The Sun: The international airport has opened its doors for 30 million tourists after a massive £1.4 billion reconstruction.

This new transport hub has become one of the largest airports in the world and officially started accepting passengers last week.

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Cambodia officially opened the new Techo International Airport with modern equipment that will help to develop the country's tourism sector.

The airport was first announced in 2018, replacing Phnom Penh International Airport, located 20 km south of the capital.

The airport began operations on September 9 and has become the largest infrastructure project in aviation in Cambodia.

Cambodia’s Prime Minister Hun Sen emphasized in his statement that the new airport will strengthen "Cambodia's connection to the world."

“As a significant source of national income, it is guided by targeted policies to attract investments, strengthen diplomatic relations, and promote other areas,” he said.

“Cambodia is actively developing and modernizing its international airports to meet the growing demand for travel, improving conditions for travelers, especially those visiting the country.”

Impressions of the new airport

David Weir, a Briton who arrived at the airport on the same day, shared his impressions:

“It is a great honor to be one of the first passengers at this airport, it looks absolutely magnificent.”

The opening was accompanied by a traditional water salute for the first Air Cambodia flight from China.

An Airbus A320 passed under water jets from fire trucks in honor of this event.

Phnom Penh International Airport opened in January 1959 and at that time was the second-largest airport in Cambodia, designed for 5 million people a year, which was nearly reached in 2024.

New opportunities of Techo International Airport

Techo International Airport can serve 13 million passengers a year with the possibility of increasing this number to 30 and even 50 million in the future.

The airport features a modern terminal with free zones, dining areas, shops, and duty-free stores.

Additionally, it has 22 gates that can accommodate up to 40 aircraft, as well as a central garden.

A unique feature of the airport is its focus on sustainable development; a significant portion of the energy used in the terminal is supplied by an on-site solar power plant.

According to reports, the new airport is a joint venture between the Cambodian government and the Cambodian Overseas Investment Corporation.

The airport's design, developed by Foster + Partners, was inspired by Cambodia's rich heritage and history, presenting a modern interpretation of the country's culture.

Prime Minister Hun Sen announced the name “Techo” in 2021; this term is usually granted to army commanders by the King of Cambodia.

Alamy Reuters AFP Cambodia will now be able to better serve tourists thanks to the new airport, which not only increases passenger flows but also contributes to economic development. Techo International Airport will become an important part of the country's infrastructure, playing a key role in attracting foreign investments and improving Cambodia's image on the international stage.