New Istanbul Route Marks Major Milestone for Cambodia’s Global Aviation Network
PHNOM PENH, Cambodia – Cambodia’s connection to the world just got a big boost! Turkish Airlines, Türkiye’s main national airline, launched a brand-new direct route between Istanbul and Phnom Penh on Thursday.
The launch of this flight significantly enhances Cambodia’s presence on the global aviation map.
I. Welcoming the Inaugural Flight
A special welcome ceremony for the first flight was held at the new Techo International Airport. The event was attended by high-ranking officials from both countries, including:
- H.E. Mao Havannall, Minister in-Charge of the State Secretariat of Civil Aviation (SSCA)
- H.E. Huot Hak, Minister of Tourism
- H.E Mrs. Ülkü Kocaefe, Ambassador of the Republic of Türkiye to Cambodia
- Mr. Ahmet Bolat, Chairman of Turkish Airlines
II. A Symbol of Growth and Friendship
This new air service will operate three flights per week using a large Boeing 777-300ER aircraft, starting on December 11, 2025.
H.E. Mao Havannall called the new route not only a key achievement for Cambodia’s aviation sector but also a symbol of the growing friendship and cooperation between Cambodia and Türkiye.
“Through the strategic hub of Istanbul, one of the world’s most important gateways linking Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, Cambodia is now more conveniently connected to global markets, business centres, and cultural destinations,” he stated.
This direct connection confirms Cambodia’s expanding role as a dynamic and connected nation in the region and internationally.
III. Growing Air Passenger Numbers
The launch comes as Cambodia’s air travel sector is already showing robust growth. A recent SSCA report showed that Cambodia recorded a total of 5.66 million international air passengers in the first ten months of 2025, which is a significant 14 percent increase compared to the same period last year.
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