During an interview on October 16, in Siem Reap, Cambodia, Secretary of State for Civil Aviation Mao Havannal highlighted the significant contributions made by Chinese companies to enhance the aviation infrastructure in Siem Reap. He noted that the Siem Reap Angkor International Airport, a symbol of Cambodia-China friendship, has generated numerous job opportunities, catered to the needs of international tourists, and bolstered the development of Cambodia’s aviation and tourism sectors.
Mao made these comments at the one-year anniversary celebration of the airport’s operations. Alongside esteemed guests, including Wang Wenbin, the Chinese Ambassador to Cambodia, he reflected on the achievements realized in sectors such as economic trade, infrastructure investment, tourism, and cultural exchange between Cambodia and China since the airport commenced operations.
Since officially launching on October 16, 2022, Siem Reap Angkor International Airport has facilitated a total of 14,700 flights and served 1.32 million passengers, averaging 40 flights and 3,620 passengers daily. The airport currently operates routes to 15 cities across eight countries, with 12 airlines managing 16 routes, thereby serving as a crucial link for economic and cultural exchanges between Cambodia and Southeast Asia.
Over the past year, the Chinese operational team at the airport has actively participated in cultural exchange activities, such as “Visit Yunnan, Explore Angkor.” They have created a “China-Cambodia Cultural Corridor” and launched a “World Heritage Tour Plan,” promoting special travel products themed around visiting ten world heritage sites in ten days. This initiative aims to deepen understanding and friendship among people from China, Cambodia, and around the globe, fostering collaborative growth between diverse civilizations.
As the airport celebrates its first anniversary, it is keen on expanding international cooperation by attracting global airlines and service providers to establish operations in Cambodia. The airport authorities have participated in numerous regional promotional events and route conferences to connect with major domestic and international airlines, showcasing Cambodia’s tourism resources and the airport’s capacity.
During the anniversary celebration, Mao presented certificates and medals to outstanding partners and individuals who have contributed to the success of Siem Reap Angkor International Airport. Additionally, the airport authority announced an incentive scheme for the aviation market, aiming to encourage more airlines to launch routes from the airport, thus supporting the revival of Cambodia’s tourism market and the development of aviation services.
