Old Phnom Penh Airport Reopens as Khmer New Year Park – A Historic Celebration

Sok Sabay — Tue, 07 Apr 2026 05:26:24 +0000

For the first time since its closure in September 2025, the former Phnom Penh International Airport will temporarily reopen to the public – not as a transport hub, but as a free recreational park for the upcoming Khmer New Year holiday. From April 11 to April 19, 2026, visitors can explore the terminal buildings, the iconic 1950s control tower, aircraft parking areas, and even parts of the runway.

This is more than a nostalgic trip. It is a unique cultural event, a potential blueprint for future redevelopment, and a rare opportunity for families, tourists, and aviation enthusiasts to experience a piece of Cambodia’s modern history.

A Brief History of Phnom Penh International Airport (PNH)

Period	Key Events
1950s	Built during the French colonial era; control tower and original terminal reflect mid‑century architecture.
1960s–70s	Served as a civilian and military airport during the Sangkum Reastr Niyum era, later used by the Khmer Rouge.
1990s	Rehabilitated with international aid; became Cambodia’s main international gateway.
2000s–2020s	Expanded multiple times, handling over 5 million passengers annually before COVID.
September 8, 2025	Permanently closed to commercial flights, replaced by Techo International Airport (KTI) in Kandal Province.

The old airport’s architecture – especially the 1950s control tower and original terminal – is a reminder of Cambodia’s post‑independence optimism. For older Cambodians, it evokes memories of the “golden age” of the 1960s. For younger generations, it’s a chance to see where the country’s aviation story began.

What to Expect During the 9‑Day Trial Opening

Detail	Information
Dates	April 11–19, 2026 (Khmer New Year period)
Hours	5:00 AM – 9:00 PM daily
Entry fee	Free
Parking fees	Motorcycles: 1,000 riel ($0.25); Cars: 2,000 riel ($0.50); Bicycles: free
Access points	Pedestrians use VIP entrance; vehicles use designated terminal gates
Prohibited	Sale of goods, alcohol, fireworks, explosives
Highlights	Terminal buildings, 1950s control tower, VIP zone, aircraft parking, runway sections

The airport grounds will be decorated with traditional Khmer New Year banners and displays, including games like Chol Chhoung and Bos Angkunh. It’s designed as a family‑friendly space for sightseeing, exercise, and leisure.

Why This Matters for Tourists & Locals

Audience	Takeaway
Tourists in Phnom Penh	A once‑in‑a‑lifetime chance to walk on an active (now retired) runway and see vintage aviation architecture. Combine with a visit to the Royal Palace or Tuol Sleng Museum.
Aviation enthusiasts	The control tower and original terminal are rare examples of 1950s airport design in Southeast Asia.
Families	Free, safe, and spacious – perfect for Khmer New Year picnics and traditional games.
Photographers	Sunrise and sunset on the runway, with the old control tower as a backdrop, will be iconic shots.

For travelers planning a Phnom Penh itinerary during the April 11–19 window, this should be a must‑see addition.

What’s Next for the Old Airport Site?

The trial opening is part of a broader inter‑ministerial working group study. The long‑term plan is not yet finalized, but possibilities include:

Permanent public park – like New York’s High Line or Seoul’s Seoullo 7017.
Mixed‑use development – combining green space, retail, and a aviation museum.
Partial preservation – keeping the control tower and original terminal as heritage landmarks.

Investors and real estate developers should watch this space closely. The old airport sits on a prime 300‑hectare plot near central Phnom Penh. Any redevelopment will significantly impact surrounding property values and urban planning.

Visitor Tips for the Old Airport Park

Go early (5–7 AM) – avoid heat and crowds; best light for photos.
Bring water and sunscreen – limited shade on the runway.
Respect restricted areas – some zones remain off‑limits for safety.
Use the designated parking – the working group has set clear entry/exit points.
Combine with nearby attractions – the airport is close to Phsar Daeum Kor (Russian Market) and Toul Tom Pong area.

Related Travel Guides

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the old Phnom Penh airport permanently closed to flights?

Yes. It closed on September 8, 2025. All flights now use Techo International Airport (KTI) in Kandal Province.

Do I need a ticket to enter the park?

No, entry is free for all visitors.

Can I bring food or drinks?

Yes, but the sale of goods is prohibited. You may bring your own picnic. Alcohol and fireworks are banned.

Will the park remain open after Khmer New Year?

The current opening is a 9‑day trial. Future openings depend on the working group’s assessment and public feedback.

Can I access the control tower?

The announcement mentions the control tower as a “key area” but does not specify whether visitors can enter it. Likely, you can view it from outside.

Disclaimer

This article is based on information from the inter‑ministerial working group announcement as of April 7, 2026. Hours, access rules, and fees may change. Visitors should check official sources before heading to the site.

Final Thoughts

The temporary transformation of Phnom Penh’s old airport into a Khmer New Year park is a brilliant blend of nostalgia, community, and urban experimentation. For travelers lucky enough to be in the capital during April 11–19, it offers an unforgettable experience – walking on a runway where millions of journeys began and ended.

Whether it becomes a permanent green lung for Phnom Penh or a mixed‑use development, one thing is certain: the old airport’s story is far from over.

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