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Cambodia-USA Air Agreement: Direct Flights After 12 Years of Negotiations

The United States and Cambodia sign a historic air agreement, paving the way for direct flights and American investment in Phnom Penh airport.

tourisme

Updated 2026-06-06 5 min

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In short

  • ●Air agreement signed after 12 years of negotiations between Cambodia and the United States.
  • ●Opening of direct flights between the two countries, making travel easier for expats and tourists.
  • ●US commitment to invest in Cambodia's largest airport (Phnom Penh).
  • ●Expected positive impact on tourism in Siem Reap and the local economy.
12 years
Negotiation duration
June 6, 2026
Signing date
Cambodia and United States
Countries involved
Cambodianess
Source

Key facts at a glance

  • 12 years of negotiations. The air agreement was concluded after more than a decade of discussions between Cambodia and the United States.
  • Direct flights authorized. Airlines from both countries can now operate direct flights between Cambodia and the United States.
  • US investment. The United States has committed to investing in Cambodia's largest airport, Phnom Penh International Airport.
  • Signing date. The agreement was formalized on June 6, 2026.
  • Tourism impact. The agreement is expected to boost tourism, especially in Siem Reap, by making it easier for American travelers to visit.

How it happened

Negotiations for an air agreement between Cambodia and the United States began in 2014. After 12 years of discussions, the agreement was signed on June 6, 2026.

  1. 2014: Start of exploratory negotiations between the two governments.
  2. 2016-2020: Rounds of technical negotiations on traffic rights and safety standards.
  3. 2021: Temporary suspension due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
  4. 2023: Resumption of discussions with renewed momentum.
  5. 2025: Finalization of the terms of the agreement.
  6. June 6, 2026: Official signing of the Cambodia-USA air agreement.
  7. 2027 (expected): Implementation of the first direct flights.

Breakdown

The impact of the agreement varies by sector and region.

SegmentFigureDetail
Direct flights plannedTo be determinedUS and Cambodian airlines will be able to operate non-stop flights.
Airport investmentNot disclosedUS investment in Phnom Penh International Airport.
American tourists in Cambodia (2025)250,000Estimate before the agreement, with expected growth of 20% after direct flights.
Tourists in Siem Reap (2025)1.2 millionOf which 15% from the United States, a figure expected to increase.
Current flight duration20-30 hoursWith layovers, compared to an estimated 15-18 hours direct.

What it actually means for Siem Reap

  • Shorter flights. Expats will be able to reach the United States in 15-18 hours instead of 20-30 hours with a layover.
  • More connections. Possibility of direct flights from Siem Reap via Phnom Penh or directly if Siem Reap airport is included.
  • Lower prices. Increased competition should drive down airfare prices.
  • Tourist influx. Increase in the number of American tourists in Siem Reap, beneficial for local businesses.
  • New business opportunities. Facilitation of trade and US investment in Cambodia.

How to avoid trouble

  1. Check the launch dates. The first direct flights are not expected until 2027; do not book too early.
  2. Monitor airline announcements. Stay informed via airline websites and civil aviation authorities.
  3. Update your travel documents. Ensure your passport and visa are valid for the new routes.
  4. Compare prices. Take advantage of competition to find the best fares, but be wary of deals that seem too good to be true.
  5. Prepare for the tourist influx. If you work in tourism, anticipate increased demand and train your staff.
  6. Follow the news. The agreement may evolve; regularly check official sources.

Frequently asked questions

When will the first direct Cambodia-USA flights be operational?
The first direct flights are expected from 2027, after the implementation of the agreement.
Which airports will be affected?
The agreement mainly concerns Phnom Penh International Airport, but flights from Siem Reap could be added later.
Which airlines might offer these flights?
US airlines like United Airlines or Delta, and Cambodian airlines like Cambodia Angkor Air are expected.
Does the agreement include cargo flights?
Yes, the agreement also covers freight transport, which will facilitate bilateral trade.
Will there be direct flights from Siem Reap?
For now, the agreement focuses on Phnom Penh, but extensions to Siem Reap are possible in the future.

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