New Heights for Siem Reap: Inauguration of Siem Reap Angkor International Airport Marks Milestone

• Sommana Yan
• 16 November 2023
• Local News
• 3382 Views

Siem Reap Angkor International Airport reached new heights of significance as it was officially inaugurated on 16 November 2023 by Prime Minister Samdech Hun Manet. This monumental occasion reflects Cambodia’s commitment to long-term vision, balancing development and conservation to safeguard the cherished Khmer ancestral property.

PM Hun Manet emphasized the strategic decision to relocate the airport from its former 5km proximity to Siem Reap to a new site 50km away. This deliberate move aligns with the government’s dual objectives of fostering development and preserving Khmer heritage.

The premier highlighted the transformative impact of the new airport on Siem Reap’s tourism landscape, affirming its pivotal role in enhancing Cambodia’s overall tourism sector and economy. The airport’s strategic location positions it as a potent catalyst for tourism growth, particularly in Siem Reap, a cornerstone of Cambodia’s tourist destinations.

Before its official opening, Siem Reap Angkor International Airport had a trial run, commencing on 16 October 2023. (Read more)

During this month-long trial period, the airport welcomed an impressive average of 34 daily flights to Siem Reap. Foreign visitor numbers to the Angkor resort area exhibited a notable surge, reaching over 3,000 per day. This marked improvement from the pre-pandemic era signifies the airport’s positive impact on the tourism sector.

In the first 10 months of 2023, the Angkor resort area witnessed a significant resurgence, generating US$27,882,435 from ticket sales to 602,570 foreign tourists. These promising figures hint at Siem Reap’s resurgence as a vibrant hub for global tourism. (Read more)

• Road and Infrastructure