Flights to Cambodia
A Complete Guide to Flights in Cambodia: Routes, Airports, and Bookings
Cambodia operates as a highly connected aviation hub within Southeast Asia, offering extensive international routes and efficient domestic transit. A flight is the fastest way to travel between the country's major tourist centers and neighboring countries.
Phnom Penh and National Hubs
The nation relies on two primary aviation gateways to handle international and domestic traffic. Phnom Penh Techo International Airport (KTI) began operations in September 2025 and now serves as the capital's main international aviation gateway. This massive new facility replaced the older Phnom Penh International Airport (PNH) for commercial passenger flights, accommodating long-haul wide-body jets and increased capacity. In the north, Siem Reap-Angkor International Airport (SAI) handles the heavy tourism volume heading to the Angkor Wat temple complex.
Domestic Flights vs. Ground Transport
Domestic flights are the most time-efficient method for traveling internally between Cambodian cities. A direct domestic flight from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap takes approximately 50 minutes. You can compare schedules and book your tickets on 12Go.
| Transport Mode | Route | Average Duration | Fare Estimate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flight | Phnom Penh to Siem Reap | 50 minutes | $40 – $90 USD |
| Bus | Phnom Penh to Siem Reap | 5 – 6 hours | $10 – $15 USD |
Buses offer substantial financial savings for budget-conscious backpackers, but flights prioritize convenience and comfort. Travelers with limited vacation time generally prefer domestic flights to maximize their stay at the destination.
International Flight Routes
Cambodia’s international departure boards are heavily focused on regional Asian hubs, allowing travelers to connect seamlessly to global destinations.
Connections within Southeast Asia
Regional flights connect Cambodian airports to neighboring ASEAN capitals multiple times per day.
Travelers note that Cambodia maintains flight routes to Thailand, Vietnam, and Singapore, which operate reliably even when land border crossings experience temporary closures.
Major Southeast Asian destination airports include:
- Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) and Don Mueang International Airport (DMK) in Thailand.
- Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) in Ho Chi Minh City, Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) in Hanoi, and Da Nang International Airport (DAD) in Vietnam.
- Singapore Changi Airport (SIN) and Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL).
- Soekarno–Hatta International Airport (CGK) in Jakarta.
- Wattay International Airport (VTE) in Vientiane.
- Clark International Airport (CRK) and terminals in Manila, connecting travelers to the Philippines.
Routes to East Asia
Airlines provide robust, direct links connecting Cambodian hubs to major Chinese, Taiwanese, and South Korean cities. Frequent flyers, from business executives to a traveling network engineer, rely on these direct connections.
- Mainland China Hubs: Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN), Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG), Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK), and Shenzhen Bao'an International Airport (SZX).
- Regional Chinese Cities: Direct routes also exist to Changsha Huanghua International Airport (CSX), Chengdu Tianfu International Airport (TFU), Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport (CKG), Xiamen Gaoqi International Airport (XMN), and Kunming Changshui International Airport (KMG).
- East Asian Transit Hubs: Hong Kong International Airport (HKG), Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport (TPE), and Incheon International Airport (ICN) serve as excellent layover points for North American travelers.
Long-Haul and Intercontinental Connections
Direct flights outside of Asia are limited, meaning Western travelers generally need to book an itinerary with at least one layover. Passengers originating from Europe, such as those flying out of London Heathrow Airport (LHR), typically route through Southeast Asian megahubs or the Middle East. Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH) serves as a common transfer point for long-haul journeys into Cambodia.
Airlines Operating in Cambodia
National and Full-Service Carriers
Cambodia is served by a mix of domestic operators and premium international brands. Air Cambodia and Cambodia Angkor Air operate as domestic and regional carriers, managing internal flights and short-haul international routes. Historically, operators like the now-defunct PMTair served domestic routes, but modern transit is handled by these newer brands. For intercontinental travel, full-service airlines like Emirates and Cathay Pacific operate connecting flights into the country, offering higher baggage allowances and premium cabins.
Regional Budget Airlines
Low-cost carriers dominate the Southeast Asian transit corridor, offering competitive fares for short trips. Vietjet frequently serves routes connecting Cambodian cities to Vietnam. Jetstar provides connections to Singapore and broader transit networks, while SpiceJet handles itineraries connecting through regional Asian airports toward India.
Fares, Entry Requirements, and Booking Policies
Ticket Prices and Fare Estimates
International short-haul flight prices vary based on the season, how far in advance you book, and your chosen airline tier.
Community travelers report that a one-way flight from Siem Reap to BKK costs roughly 6,500 PHP ($115 USD) when booking a few weeks in advance.
Domestic flights within Cambodia generally range from $40 to $90 USD for a one-way ticket.
Visas and Onward Travel Rules
Most international arrivals require a tourist visa, which can often be obtained online as an e-visa prior to departure.
Travelers note that US passport holders were not required to provide flight tickets for a Cambodia e-visa application online.
While Cambodian immigration authorities generally do not require proof of an onward flight for entry, airlines often enforce this requirement during check-in to comply with their own carrier policies and mitigate liability. Always carry printed proof of a confirmed, paid onward ticket out of the country before arriving at your departure gate to ensure you are not denied boarding.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are domestic flights better than buses or trains for internal travel between Southeast Asian cities?
Flights are superior if you prioritize speed, effectively reducing a 6-hour road journey across Cambodia into a 50-minute trip. Buses and trains are the better choice if you are traveling on a strict budget or prefer taking in the scenery along the route.
Is the old Cambodia airport closed?
Yes, the older Phnom Penh International Airport (PNH) was closed to commercial passenger flights in September 2025. All major commercial flights routing into the capital now use the newly constructed Phnom Penh Techo International Airport (KTI).
Does Jetstar fly to Cambodia?
Yes, Jetstar operates routes connecting Cambodian airports to major regional transit hubs like Singapore. This budget airline offers highly affordable daily connections for travelers moving through Southeast Asia.
Is Cambodia airport open for international travel?
Yes, Cambodia's international gateways are fully open. Both the capital's new KTI hub and the Siem Reap facility operate regular daily schedules for international arrivals from across the globe.
Does Cambodia have an airline?
Yes, Cambodia maintains domestic aviation brands like Cambodia Angkor Air and Air Cambodia. These airlines handle internal transit as well as direct short-haul routes to major neighboring countries.
Are there flight schools in Cambodia?
Yes, Cambodia hosts certified aviation academies that train local pilots. These flight schools operate under the oversight of the State Secretariat of Civil Aviation to build the domestic aviation workforce.
Can you work as a flight attendant in Cambodia?
Yes, domestic carriers frequently hire local and regional candidates for cabin crew positions. Requirements typically include fluency in English and Khmer, alongside specialized safety and service training.
Are there direct flights from Cambodia to Brisbane?
Direct flights from Cambodian airports to Brisbane, or any other Australian cities, do not currently exist. Travelers heading to Australia must book a connecting flight through a major regional transit hub such as Singapore or Kuala Lumpur.
