✈️ Flights in Cambodia
Plan your Cambodia flights with our guide to domestic routes, airlines, booking tips, and what to expect flying between Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and Sihanoukville.
Cambodia is a compact country, and most travelers cross it by road or boat. But for those short on time or eager to skip the long, bumpy bus rides between major destinations, domestic flights offer a surprisingly convenient alternative. The aerial view alone is worth it: lush green rice paddies stretching to the horizon, the silver thread of the Mekong River, and the vast expanse of Tonle Sap Lake all unfold beneath you in a matter of minutes. Flying within Cambodia transforms what could be a grueling six-hour road journey into a breezy hop of less than an hour.
International flights, meanwhile, connect Cambodia directly to dozens of cities across Asia and beyond, making the country far more accessible than its relatively small size might suggest. Whether arriving from Bangkok, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, or Seoul, air travel is the primary gateway into the Kingdom of Wonder.
The Flight Network in Cambodia
Cambodia's air network is centered on three main airports. Phnom Penh International Airport (PNH) serves the capital and is the country's busiest hub, handling the majority of international arrivals. Siem Reap International Airport - the gateway to Angkor Wat - is the second major entry point, drawing millions of temple-bound visitors. A new, much larger airport near Siem Reap (Siem Reap Angkor International Airport, SAI) has been developed to handle growing tourism demand, gradually replacing the older facility. The third airport, Sihanoukville International Airport (KOS), serves the coastal region and its beach resorts.
Domestically, the route connecting Phnom Penh and Siem Reap is by far the most popular, with multiple daily flights operated by several carriers. Flights between Phnom Penh and Sihanoukville also run regularly. Direct domestic service between Siem Reap and Sihanoukville is more limited but does exist.
Key airlines operating in Cambodia include Cambodia Angkor Air, the national flag carrier (partly owned in partnership with Vietnam Airlines), which dominates domestic routes. Cambodia Airways and Lanmei Airlines also serve domestic and regional routes. International carriers such as AirAsia, Thai Smile, Bangkok Airways, Vietnam Airlines, Korean Air, and several Chinese airlines connect Cambodia to the broader region. Budget carriers have expanded their presence significantly, making flights into and within Cambodia more affordable than ever.
Classes and Comfort Levels
Most domestic flights within Cambodia are operated on narrow-body or turboprop aircraft, and the flight time is so short - typically 45 minutes to an hour - that class distinctions matter less than on long-haul routes. That said, here is what you can expect:
| Class | Typical Features | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Economy | Standard seating with adequate legroom, a small snack or drink on some carriers, carry-on allowance | Most travelers on domestic hops |
| Business Class | Available on select Cambodia Angkor Air flights and international routes; wider seats, priority boarding, lounge access at some airports, enhanced meal service | Travelers wanting extra comfort on international legs |
On domestic routes, economy class is perfectly comfortable given the short duration. The real value difference appears on international flights, where business class on carriers like Bangkok Airways or Korean Air provides a noticeably premium experience with lounge access, better baggage allowances, and lie-flat seats on longer routes.
Budget airlines like AirAsia operate a single economy cabin with optional paid add-ons for extra legroom, meals, and checked baggage. These no-frills options represent the cheapest way to fly into Cambodia from neighboring countries.
Booking and Tickets
Booking flights in Cambodia is straightforward and largely digital. Most travelers book online through airline websites, aggregator platforms, or travel booking sites. GoAsia.cc is a useful resource for comparing flight options across multiple carriers serving Cambodian routes, letting you quickly see what is available for your dates and budget.
Advance booking is recommended for the Phnom Penh to Siem Reap route during peak tourist season (November through March), as flights can fill up. Outside of peak periods, booking a few days ahead is usually sufficient. Sihanoukville flights around Cambodian holidays - especially Khmer New Year in April and Pchum Ben in September or October - also see higher demand.
Most airlines accept international credit and debit cards. E-tickets are standard; you simply show your booking confirmation or a digital boarding pass at the airport. Paper tickets are virtually obsolete. Some local travel agencies in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap can also arrange flight bookings if you prefer face-to-face service, though this rarely offers a price advantage.
What to Expect on Board
Domestic flights in Cambodia are brief, efficient affairs. The Phnom Penh to Siem Reap route clocks in at around 45 minutes, barely enough time to settle into your seat, accept a small water bottle or snack, and glance out the window before descent begins. Cambodia Angkor Air typically includes a light refreshment even on these short flights, while budget carriers may charge for everything beyond a carry-on bag.
The scenery from the air is genuinely beautiful. Flying north from Phnom Penh toward Siem Reap, you will see the vast floodplain of Tonle Sap Lake, which dramatically changes size between the wet and dry seasons. Heading south toward Sihanoukville, the coastline and islands of the Gulf of Thailand come into view.
Luggage: Checked baggage allowances vary by airline and fare class. Cambodia Angkor Air generally includes checked luggage in the ticket price, while budget carriers sell it as an add-on. Domestic flights typically allow 20 to 23 kilograms for checked bags on standard fares. Always verify your specific allowance when booking, as excess baggage fees can be steep.
Airport experience: Cambodian airports are modern and manageable in size. Phnom Penh's airport has been expanded and renovated, featuring decent restaurants, duty-free shopping, and comfortable waiting areas. The new Siem Reap airport is a large, modern facility. Sihanoukville's airport is smaller and more basic. Visa on arrival is available at all three international airports for most nationalities, and e-visa processing is also accepted.
Tips for Flight Travel in Cambodia
- Arrive early for international departures. Immigration lines at Phnom Penh airport can be slow during peak hours. Allow at least two hours before an international flight, though domestic check-in is faster.
- Book carry-on-only fares wisely. If flying a budget airline for a short domestic hop, traveling with just a carry-on can save a meaningful amount. Pack light and buy what you need at your destination.
- Watch for seasonal disruptions. Cambodia's rainy season (June through October) can occasionally cause delays, though outright cancellations are rare. Afternoon thunderstorms are common but usually pass quickly.
- Arrange airport transfers in advance. Official taxis and ride-hailing apps like Grab operate at Phnom Penh and Siem Reap airports. Agree on a fare or use the app meter to avoid overcharging. Many hotels offer airport pickup as well.
- Keep USD handy. Cambodia's economy runs on a dual-currency system using both Cambodian riel and US dollars. Airport shops, taxis, and services commonly accept US dollars, making it easy for international travelers.
- Check visa requirements before flying. Most nationalities can obtain a 30-day tourist visa on arrival at the airport or apply for an e-visa online beforehand. Having a passport photo and the fee ready in cash speeds up the on-arrival process considerably.
- Consider flight versus bus trade-offs. The Phnom Penh to Siem Reap bus ride takes six or more hours and is significantly cheaper than flying. But the time savings of a 45-minute flight can be well worth it, especially on a tight itinerary. For Sihanoukville, the road from Phnom Penh has improved dramatically, making the four-to-five-hour drive a viable alternative.
- Join airline loyalty programs. If you fly Cambodia Angkor Air, their partnership with Vietnam Airlines means you can earn SkyTeam miles - useful if you travel frequently in the region.