Cambodian PM opens kingdom's biggest international airport

The new airport, developed by Cambodia Airport Investment Co (CAIC), is a subsidiary of Overseas Cambodian Investment Corporation (OCIC) in joint venture with the State Secretariat of Civil Aviation. The China State Construction Engineering Corporation is the contractor.

The airport currently operates 31 airlines offering 44 direct connection routes, with 130 daily aircraft movements and approximately 13,500 daily passengers.

"Techo International Airport is a symbol of Cambodia's progress and its growing role as a hub for travel, trade and tourism in Southeast Asia," Pung Kheav Se, chairman of CAIC and OCIC, said.

He said the airport will be developed in three phases, with annual passengers handling capacities of 13 million in Phase 1, 30 million in Phase 2, and 50 million in Phase 3, according to the official Agence Kampunchea Presse.

"Techo International Airport will be the first warm welcome many visitors receive in Cambodia — reflecting our hospitality and culture," Minea Kim, Chief Executive Officer of the Cambodia Tourism Board, said. "Cambodia is committed to offering experiences that inspire and delight travelers."

The new airport is also expected to generate an estimated 10,000 jobs, a threefold increase compared to Cambodia's previous airport.

Cambodia currently has three international airports in operation. They are the Techo International Airport, the Siem Reap Angkor International Airport, and the Sihanouk International Airport.