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. Air Cambodia alone lists routes to Bangkok, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Seoul, Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City and many cities in China.[1]
The Flight Network in Cambodia
Cambodia's main visitor gateways include Techo International Airport (KTI) for Phnom Penh, Siem Reap-Angkor International Airport (SAI) for Angkor, and Sihanoukville International Airport (KOS) for the coast. All Phnom Penh airport operations moved to Techo on 9 September 2025, and the former Siem Reap airport stopped operating on 15 October 2023.[2] Check the airport code on your ticket and allow for the onward journey into town.
Domestically, Air Cambodia flies daily between Phnom Penh and Siem Reap[3] and daily between Siem Reap and Sihanoukville.[4] Cambodia Airways has launched flights on the same two routes with new ATR 72-600 aircraft.[5] For Phnom Penh to Sihanoukville, the road is a practical alternative: the Giant Ibis bus takes about 4 hours.[6]
Key Cambodian airlines include Air Cambodia, the national flag carrier,[1] and Cambodia Airways.[5] International carriers also connect Cambodia to the region: for example, Bangkok Airways and Thai AirAsia fly from Bangkok to Siem Reap.[7]
Classes and Comfort Levels
Domestic flights within Cambodia are so short that class distinctions matter little. On these routes, economy class is perfectly comfortable. Cabins, meals and baggage allowances differ by airline and fare, so check what your fare includes before you book, particularly on low-cost carriers that sell extras such as checked baggage separately.
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. 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, barely long enough to settle into your seat and glance out the window before descent begins.
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. Always verify your specific allowance when booking.
Airport experience: The airports at Phnom Penh (Techo) and Siem Reap are both new facilities, while Sihanoukville's is smaller. If you do not have an e-visa, you can get a visa on arrival at airports,[8] and the e-visa is accepted at all three international airports.[9]
Tips for Flight Travel in Cambodia
- Arrive early for international departures. Air Cambodia asks international passengers to be at the check-in counter 2 hours before departure.[1] Domestic check-in is usually faster.
- Book carry-on-only fares wisely. If your airline sells checked baggage separately, traveling with just a carry-on can save money on a short domestic hop.
- Watch for seasonal disruptions. Heavy storms during the monsoon season from June to October disrupt the road network and cause flooded roads in Phnom Penh, including along the route to the airport, so allow extra time to get there.[10]
- Arrange airport transfers in advance. Agree on a fare before you get in a taxi or use a ride-hailing app 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 visitors need a visa. You can apply for an e-visa online beforehand, or get a tourist visa on arrival if you bring a photo and pay in US dollars.[8] All travelers must also submit the e-Arrival form online, recommended within 7 days before arrival.[9]
- Consider flight versus bus trade-offs. The Phnom Penh to Siem Reap bus takes about 6 hours,[11] so the time savings of a flight can be well worth it on a tight itinerary. For Sihanoukville, the Express Highway makes the roughly 4-hour bus ride from Phnom Penh a viable alternative.[6]
