Phnom Penh: Cambodia’s aviation sector experienced a remarkable surge in 2024 with the three international airports collectively handling a record high of 6.2 million passengers, according to a report from the State Secretariat of Civil Aviation (SSCA).

According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, the airports saw an increase of 14 percent of flight movements to 58,354 last year, said the report, adding that air cargo transport reached nearly 80,000 tonnes, an increase of 40 percent compared to 2023.

SSCA’s Secretary of State and Spokesperson H.E. Sinn Chanserey Vutha attributed the airports’ positive performance to the government’s proactive measures in facilitating air travel and collaborative efforts of the airlines. ‘After the COVID-19 pandemic eased, flight connections gradually began to reopen, and security and attractive tourism policies have led to increased demand and flight connections,’ he said.

The aviation sector in Cambodia has been experiencing steady growth in recent years, driven by increased demand for air travel and government initiatives to modernise the country’s airport infrastructure. Under the open sky policy, the Royal Government of Cambodia’s efforts to improve airport infrastructure and enhance aviation services have also contributed to the sector’s growth.

The country is adding new flight routes and expanding its aviation sector to boost tourism and air connectivity. There are 31 national and international airlines operating flights to and from the three international airports, including 131 flights to and from Phnom Penh International Airport per day, 52 flights to and from Siem Reap Angkor International Airport per day, and 6 flights to and from Sihanoukville International Airport per day, according to the report.