Airports in Cambodia: Complete Guide to International and Domestic Aviation

Cambodia's aviation infrastructure serves as the gateway for millions of international visitors and provides essential domestic connectivity across the kingdom. Understanding the country's airport facilities, services, and procedures helps travellers plan their journeys effectively and navigate entry requirements for e-visa holders.

Overview of Cambodia's Aviation Infrastructure

Cambodia operates several airports serving both international and domestic routes, with three major international airports handling the majority of tourist and business traffic. The aviation sector has experienced significant growth and modernisation, reflecting the country's expanding tourism industry and economic development.

The airport infrastructure supports Cambodia's position as a key destination in Southeast Asia, providing convenient access to world-famous attractions like Angkor Wat, pristine beaches, and vibrant cultural centres. Modern facilities and improving services enhance the travel experience for international visitors.

Major International Airports

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Phnom Penh International Airport

PNH
Location
Facilities
Airlines
E-visa Entry
  • Located 10 kilometres west of Phnom Penh city centre
  • Serving Cambodia's capital and largest city
  • Primary gateway for business and government travel
  • Well-connected to city centre via various transportation options
  • Modern terminal building with international standards
  • Duty-free shopping and dining options
  • Currency exchange and banking services
  • Car rental agencies and transportation services
  • VIP lounges and business facilities
  • Major international carriers including Cambodia Angkor Air, Vietnam Airlines, Thai Airways
  • Direct flights to Bangkok, Ho Chi Minh City, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur
  • Regional connections throughout Southeast Asia
  • Domestic flights to Siem Reap and Sihanoukville
  • Designated e-visa entry point
  • Immigration counters specifically for e-visa holders
  • 24/7 immigration services available
  • Efficient processing for most travellers
  • Customs and arrival procedures clearly marked
✈️

Siem Reap Angkor International Airport

SAI
Location
Facilities
Airlines
Tourism
  • Located 40 kilometres from Siem Reap city centre
  • New airport opened in 2023, replacing the old Siem Reap International Airport
  • Primary gateway for Angkor Wat tourism
  • Modern transportation links to tourist areas
  • State-of-the-art terminal with advanced technology
  • Extensive shopping and dining options
  • Cultural exhibitions showcasing Khmer heritage
  • Premium lounges and business services
  • Comprehensive ground transportation services
  • International flights from major Asian cities
  • Direct connections to Bangkok, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Ho Chi Minh City
  • Charter flights during peak tourist seasons
  • Domestic connections to Phnom Penh
  • Expanding route network with new airline partnerships
  • Designed specifically for tourism convenience
  • Angkor-themed architecture and design
  • Tourist information centres
  • Tour operator desks and services
  • Seamless connection to Angkor Archaeological Park
✈️

Sihanoukville International Airport

KOS
Location
Facilities
Airlines
E-visa
  • Located 20 kilometres from Sihanoukville city centre
  • Serving Cambodia's premier beach destination
  • Gateway to coastal attractions and islands
  • Convenient access to resort areas
  • Smaller but modern terminal facilities
  • Basic shopping and dining options
  • Ground transportation services
  • Limited but adequate passenger amenities
  • Expansion plans for increased capacity
  • Limited international service
  • Domestic flights to Phnom Penh and Siem Reap
  • Charter flights during peak seasons
  • Regional connections being developed
  • Potential for growth with tourism expansion
  • Designated entry point for e-visa holders
  • Immigration services available
  • Smaller scale operations than major airports
  • Efficient processing for beach-bound tourists

Domestic Airports

Battambang Airport

Current Status

  • Limited commercial operations
  • Primarily used for charter and private flights
  • Potential for future development
  • Serves Cambodia's second-largest city

Development Plans

  • Infrastructure improvements planned
  • Potential for domestic route expansion
  • Tourism development support
  • Regional connectivity enhancement

Mondulkiri Airport

Operational Status

  • Small regional airport
  • Limited scheduled services
  • Primarily charter and emergency operations
  • Serves remote northeastern province

Access and Services

  • Basic facilities and services
  • Ground transportation limited
  • Adventure tourism gateway
  • Eco-tourism potential

Airport Services and Facilities

Immigration and Customs

E-visa Processing

  • Dedicated e-visa counters at major airports
  • Streamlined processing procedures
  • Digital verification systems
  • Multilingual immigration officers

Customs Procedures

  • Standard international customs protocols
  • Duty-free allowances clearly posted
  • Declaration requirements for high-value items
  • Efficient processing for most travellers

Health and Safety

  • Health screening facilities
  • Medical services available
  • Emergency response capabilities
  • Safety and security measures

Banking and Currency

  • Currency exchange services
  • ATMs accepting international cards
  • Banking services and money transfers
  • Credit card acceptance widespread
  • US Dollar and Cambodian Riel available

Transportation from Airports

Phnom Penh International Airport

  • Taxis: $12-15 USD to city centre
  • Tuk-tuks: $8-12 USD to central areas
  • Airport shuttle buses: $2-5 USD per person
  • Car rental services available
  • Ride-sharing apps operational

Siem Reap Angkor International Airport

  • Taxis: $15-20 USD to city centre
  • Shuttle buses: $5-8 USD per person
  • Hotel transfer services: $10-25 USD
  • Tuk-tuks: $12-18 USD to tourist areas
  • Car rental and private transfers available

Shopping and Dining

Duty-Free Shopping

  • International brands and local products
  • Alcohol, tobacco, and perfume selections
  • Cambodian handicrafts and souvenirs
  • Electronics and luxury goods
  • Competitive pricing with city stores

Dining Options

  • International cuisine restaurants
  • Local Khmer food outlets
  • Fast food chains
  • Coffee shops and cafés
  • Snack bars and convenience stores

Airline Options and Routes

International Airlines

Full-Service Carriers

  • Cambodia Angkor Air (national carrier)
  • Vietnam Airlines
  • Thai Airways
  • Singapore Airlines
  • Malaysia Airlines

Budget Airlines

  • AirAsia
  • Jetstar Asia
  • Scoot
  • VietJet Air
  • Bangkok Airways

Route Networks

Primary International Routes

  • Bangkok (Thailand) - Multiple daily flights
  • Ho Chi Minh City (Vietnam) - Frequent connections
  • Singapore - Daily services
  • Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia) - Regular flights
  • Hanoi (Vietnam) - Several weekly flights

Domestic Routes

  • Phnom Penh to Siem Reap - Multiple daily flights
  • Phnom Penh to Sihanoukville - Regular services
  • Siem Reap to Sihanoukville - Limited connections
  • Charter services to remote destinations

Airport Development and Future Plans

Infrastructure Expansion

Phnom Penh International Airport

  • Terminal expansion projects
  • Runway improvements and extensions
  • Enhanced cargo facilities
  • Technology upgrades and modernisation
  • Increased passenger capacity

Siem Reap Angkor International Airport

  • Recently opened with modern facilities
  • Capacity for significant passenger growth
  • Advanced technology integration
  • Sustainable design features
  • Cultural heritage integration

Technology Integration

Digital Services

  • Online check-in and mobile boarding passes
  • Automated immigration systems
  • Digital customs declarations
  • Real-time flight information systems
  • Enhanced security screening technology

Passenger Experience

  • Improved Wi-Fi connectivity
  • Mobile charging stations
  • Digital wayfinding systems
  • Contactless payment options
  • Enhanced customer service platforms

Travel Tips for Airport Navigation

Pre-Departure Preparation

Documentation Checklist

  • Valid passport with 6+ months validity
  • Printed e-visa certificate
  • Completed e-Arrival form
  • Return or onward travel tickets
  • Accommodation confirmations

Packing Considerations

  • Carry-on restrictions compliance
  • Liquid limitations for international flights
  • Electronics and battery regulations
  • Prohibited items awareness
  • Duty-free purchase planning

Arrival Procedures

Immigration Process

  • Present e-visa certificate and passport
  • Complete any required health declarations
  • Answer immigration officer questions
  • Receive entry stamp
  • Proceed to baggage claim

Customs Clearance

  • Declare items exceeding duty-free limits
  • Present receipts for expensive electronics
  • Understand prohibited import items
  • Use appropriate customs channels
  • Keep customs receipts if required

Departure Procedures

Check-in Process

  • Arrive 2-3 hours before international flights
  • Complete online check-in when possible
  • Verify baggage allowances and restrictions
  • Confirm seat assignments and special requests
  • Print boarding passes or use mobile versions

Security and Immigration

  • Allow sufficient time for security screening
  • Prepare electronics for separate screening
  • Complete departure immigration procedures
  • Pay any applicable departure taxes
  • Proceed to departure gates early

Airport Accommodation

On-Site Hotels

  • Limited on-site accommodation options
  • Transit hotels for layovers
  • Business traveller facilities
  • Convenient for early flights
  • Premium pricing for convenience

Nearby Accommodation

Phnom Penh Airport Area

  • Several hotels within 10-15 minutes
  • Range from budget to luxury options
  • Free airport shuttle services
  • Business and leisure facilities
  • Restaurant and shopping access

Siem Reap Airport Area

  • Growing number of nearby hotels
  • Tourist-focused accommodation
  • Cultural and heritage themes
  • Tour operator partnerships
  • Transportation to Angkor sites

Cambodia's airports provide modern, efficient gateways for international visitors, with particular strength in serving the tourism industry. The three major international airports offer comprehensive facilities and services, while ongoing development projects promise enhanced capacity and improved passenger experiences.

Understanding airport procedures, transportation options, and available services helps e-visa holders navigate their arrival and departure efficiently. With continued investment in aviation infrastructure, Cambodia's airports will continue to support the country's growing tourism industry and economic development.

For the most current information on flight schedules, airport services, and any operational changes, consult official airport websites and airline partners before travelling to ensure smooth and efficient airport experiences in Cambodia.