Vientiane: Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet officially inaugurated the Techo International Airport (TIA), the kingdom's largest and newest airport, marking a pivotal moment in the expansion of Cambodia's aviation network. This new development is anticipated to play a major role in bolstering the nation's economic and tourism sectors.
According to Namibia Press Agency, Hun Manet, during the inauguration ceremony, highlighted the significance of the $2.3 billion airport, which has replaced the old Phnom Penh International Airport. He expressed confidence that the TIA would serve as a catalyst for economic and tourism growth in Cambodia, attracting more investors and tourists to the region.
The TIA is classified as a 4F-level international airport, meaning it can accommodate long-haul flights and various types of aircraft, thereby enhancing Cambodia's connectivity both regionally and globally. The prime minister emphasized the airport's potential to transform into a central passenger and logistics hub within the kingdom.
Mao Havannall, the minister overseeing the State Secretariat of Civil Aviation, remarked on the TIA's significance as a historic milestone in the evolution of Cambodia's civil aviation. He noted that the airport would act as a crucial bridge linking Cambodia to the global community, driving economic growth and fostering tourism and logistics development.
Construction of the airport commenced in 2020, with the China State Construction Engineering Corporation serving as the contractor. The project, spearheaded by Cambodia Airport Investment Co., Ltd, spans 2,600 hectares across southern Kandal and Takeo provinces, located over 20 km from Phnom Penh.
Pung Kheav Se, chairman of Cambodia Airport Investment Corporation, detailed the project's phased approach, with Phase 1 including the construction of the main passenger terminal, airfields, ancillary structures, and VVIP terminals. The airport's design capacity is set for 13 million passengers initially, with plans to expand to 30 million and 50 million in subsequent phases.
Kheav Se also announced new direct flight routes, with Etihad Airways commencing operations to TIA, and Turkish Airlines set to start direct flights from Istanbul in December, enhancing Phnom Penh's connectivity to major cities in the Middle East, Europe, and Africa.
Thourn Sinan, chairman of the Pacific Asia Travel Association Cambodia chapter, praised the TIA's inauguration as a landmark achievement for Cambodia's infrastructure and economic development. He emphasized the airport's role in improving connectivity, supporting tourism growth, and solidifying Phnom Penh's status as a regional hub.
Kin Phea, director-general of the International Relations Institute of Cambodia, highlighted the TIA as a testament to Cambodia's ambition to modernize its air transport infrastructure, aligning with global standards. He underscored the airport's role in enhancing connectivity, promoting tourism, attracting foreign investment, and facilitating international trade.
Strategically positioned near Phnom Penh, the TIA is expected to link Cambodia to major cities across Asia and beyond, serving as a vital hub for inclusive and sustainable growth, strengthening Cambodia's position within ASEAN and the global economy.
Currently, Cambodia operates three international airports: the TIA, Siem Reap Angkor International Airport, and Sihanouk International Airport.