news
Updated 2026-05-15 5 min
In short
- ●In the first quarter of 2026, the number of flights in Cambodia increased by only 2% compared to the same period in 2025.
- ●Passenger numbers fell by 4%, indicating a slower-than-expected tourism recovery.
- ●Air freight recorded an increase, a sign of sustained economic activity.
- ●For expats, this stagnation could mean fewer flight choices and less competitive fares.
+2%
Change in flights
-4%
Change in passengers
Q1 2026
Period
Phnom Penh Post
Source
Key facts at a glance
- Flights up 2%. In Q1 2026, the total number of commercial flights in Cambodia reached 12,450, compared to 12,206 a year earlier.
- Passengers down 4%. 1.82 million travelers passed through Cambodian airports, versus 1.90 million in Q1 2025.
- Air freight on the rise. Cargo volume increased by 8% year-on-year, reaching 18,500 tons.
- Sluggish tourism recovery. These figures confirm that international tourism has not yet returned to pre-pandemic levels.
- Impact on Siem Reap. Siem Reap-Angkor Airport saw its traffic drop by 6%, more than the national average.
How it unfolded
Data from the Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation shows a trend of stagnation since late 2025.
- 2023-2024: Gradual recovery after the pandemic, with double-digit growth in air traffic.
- Late 2025: Growth slows, airlines reduce capacity on some Asian routes.
- January 2026: Q1 begins with a 3% drop in passengers compared to January 2025.
- February 2026: Chinese New Year did not generate the expected influx; flights remain stable.
- March 2026: Slight increase in flights (+1%) but passengers continue to decline (-2%).
- April 2026: Official figures released by the Civil Aviation Authority of Cambodia.
- May 2026: Analysis by the Phnom Penh Post confirms stagnation and a 4% drop in passengers for the quarter.
Breakdown
Data by airport and traffic type shows disparities.
| Segment | Figure | Detail |
|---|---|---|
| Phnom Penh Airport | Flights +3%, Passengers -2% | Relative stability thanks to domestic and regional flights. |
| Siem Reap-Angkor Airport | Flights -1%, Passengers -6% | More pronounced decline; cultural tourism struggles to recover. |
| Sihanoukville Airport | Flights +5%, Passengers +2% | Slight growth driven by beach tourism and charter flights. |
| International flights | Flights +1%, Passengers -5% | Long-haul routes are the most affected. |
| Domestic flights | Flights +4%, Passengers +1% | Stable domestic traffic, supported by business travel. |
| Air freight | +8% in volume | Growth driven by e-commerce and textile exports. |
What this means for Siem Reap
- Fewer direct flights from Europe and North America, requiring longer layovers.
- Potentially higher ticket prices due to lower demand and reduced supply.
- Reduced frequencies on regional routes (Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Singapore).
- Possibility of more convenient domestic flights to Phnom Penh or Sihanoukville.
- For digital nomads, the cost of living in Siem Reap remains low, but travel becomes more cumbersome.
How to avoid trouble
- Book early: With fewer flights, seats sell out quickly. Plan your trips at least 2 months in advance.
- Compare airports: Consider departing from Phnom Penh or Bangkok if flights from Siem Reap are too expensive or unavailable.
- Check connections: Opt for itineraries with a single layover to minimize delay risks.
- Sign up for price alerts: Use apps like Skyscanner or Google Flights to track changes.
- Consider the bus: For regional trips (Bangkok, Phnom Penh), the bus remains a reliable and economical alternative.
- Travel insurance: Get insurance that covers cancellations and flight changes.
- Stay informed: Follow local sources like the Phnom Penh Post to anticipate any developments.
Frequently asked questions
Why is air traffic stagnating in Cambodia?
Several factors: a slower-than-expected global tourism recovery, competition from neighboring destinations (Thailand, Vietnam), and airlines reducing capacity on Asian routes.
Which airports are most affected?
Siem Reap-Angkor Airport is the most affected with a 6% drop in passengers, while Sihanoukville sees slight growth.
Will this trend continue?
Experts expect stabilization in the second half of 2026, but a strong recovery is not expected until 2027.
What should I do if my flight is canceled?
Contact the airline immediately for rebooking. Check your travel insurance and keep all documentation.
Are there alternatives to flying for expats?
Yes, international buses to Thailand and Vietnam are reliable, and domestic trains are gradually expanding.
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Siem Reap Hub
The community guide for expats and travelers in Siem Reap, Cambodia