Cambodia and Turkish Airlines explore direct flights

Minister of Tourism Huot Hak, Monday held a high-level meeting with Turkish Airlines’ Chief Commercial Officer Ahmet Olmustur over the potential launch of direct flights between Istanbul and the soon-to-be-inaugurated Techo International Airport.

The meeting, held in Istanbul, focused on plans to establish a direct air route by the end of 2025, according to the Ministry of Tourism’s press release yesterday.

The discussion also included strategies to promote Cambodia’s tourism potential to travellers from Türkiye and across the globe.

Turkish Airlines, headquartered in Istanbul, is one of the world’s largest carriers and operates flights to over 120 nations. With more than 95 years of experience, the airline has played a pivotal role in connecting continents, leveraging Istanbul’s strategic location as a bridge between Asia and Europe.

Minister Hak highlighted the anticipated impact of the Techo International Airport, currently under construction in Takhmao City in Kandal province.

“In 2024, we welcomed 6.7 million international tourists—an increase of approximately 23 percent compared to 2023,” he said, adding, “In 2025, we hope that number will rise to between 7.2 million and 7.5 million.”

He added that the official inauguration of the airport, scheduled for July 2025 and presided over by Prime Minister Hun Manet, will likely attract even more international visitors to the Kingdom.

He emphasized that the new airport would enhance Cambodia’s global profile and provide a major boost to the national economy and tourism industry.

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