Complete Guide: Best Airport in Cambodia - Your 2026 Gateway to the Kingdom of Wonder

Choosing the best airport in Cambodia for your arrival depends on your destination, priorities, and travel plans within this captivating Southeast Asian kingdom. Cambodia's aviation infrastructure has undergone a dramatic transformation since 2023, with brand-new airports coming into operation between 2023 and 2025, with brand-new world-class facilities opening that rival any airport in the region. Whether you prioritize proximity to Angkor Wat's magnificent temples, convenience for exploring the capital, or access to pristine beaches, understanding Cambodia's airport options ensures smooth arrivals and efficient connections to your adventures.

Cambodia currently operates three major international airports serving distinct regions: the brand-new Techo International Airport replacing Phnom Penh's old facility, the spectacular Siem Reap-Angkor International Airport opened in 2023, and Sihanouk International Airport serving coastal destinations. Each facility offers unique advantages depending on your itinerary, with modern amenities, efficient immigration processes, and excellent transportation links making arrivals increasingly seamless for international travelers.

Let me guide you through everything you need to know about the best airport in Cambodia for your specific needs, including facilities, transportation options, airlines, and practical tips that will help you begin your Cambodian journey smoothly and confidently.

Best Airport in Cambodia

Techo International Airport - Cambodia's Newest World-Class Hub

Techo International Airport is scheduled to commence commercial operations in September 2025, becoming Cambodia's flagship aviation facility and potentially the best airport in Cambodia for international travelers arriving in Phnom Penh. Located 19 kilometres south of Phnom Penh, this brand-new airport replaced all of Phnom Penh International Airport's commercial operations and international flights.

Capacity and Scale: The first phase can handle 13 million passengers a year, whilst the second phase is set to increase this to 30 million. Once fully completed across all planned phases, the airport is designed to handle up to 50 million passengers annually. The airport will be able to handle large passenger aircraft such as the Airbus A380 and Boeing 747-8.

Modern Facilities and Management: The airport's developer, CAIC, has appointed partners including Vinci Airports, Lagardère Travel Retail, and Newrest Group to oversee airport management, retail, and catering. This international expertise ensures world-class passenger experiences with sophisticated duty-free shopping, diverse dining options, business lounges, and efficient baggage handling systems.

Transportation to Phnom Penh: The 19-kilometer journey to central Phnom Penh takes approximately 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic. Transportation options include official airport taxis, ride-hailing apps like Grab, and future airport shuttle services. The new location provides excellent connectivity to Phnom Penh while positioning Cambodia as a major regional aviation hub.

Why It Might Be Best: Techo International Airport represents Cambodia's most ambitious infrastructure project, delivering facilities that rival Bangkok or Singapore airports. For travelers prioritizing cutting-edge amenities, spacious terminals, and efficient modern systems, this brand-new facility sets new standards as potentially the best airport in Cambodia for international arrivals.

Techo International Airport - Cambodia's Newest World-Class Hub

Siem Reap-Angkor International Airport - Gateway to Ancient Wonders

For travelers whose primary destination involves exploring Angkor Wat and Cambodia's magnificent temple complexes, Siem Reap-Angkor International Airport represents the second-largest airport in Cambodia and the most convenient gateway to the world's largest religious monument.

Modern Infrastructure: SAI covers an area of 700 hectares of land and has a 3,600 m runway, capable of handling 65,800 flights and 7 million passengers annually, projected to increase to 112,700 flights and 12 million passengers annually from 2040. The airport was built to replace Siem Reap International Airport, which proved unable to handle increased traffic and caused damage to Angkor Wat due to pollution.

Architectural Design: Siem Reap Airport features architectural designs inspired by Cambodia's unique cultural heritage, creating stunning first impressions that immediately immerse visitors in Khmer artistry. The terminal design incorporates traditional motifs and contemporary elements that celebrate Cambodia's rich historical legacy.

Facilities and Amenities: The airport offers free Wi-Fi at the airport terminal, 4G SIM cards available for purchase at the airport lounge, currency exchange services by Cambodia Asia Bank at both arrival and departure gates, duty-free shops, specialty stores, restaurants, Business Class lounges, medical services, information desks, and ATMs.

Location and Access: It is 40 km east of Angkor Wat and 50 km east of Siem Reap. Recent visitor reviews indicate that transfers to Siem Reap city take approximately 40-50 minutes by taxi, costing $16-$25. Most travelers rely on taxis or private transfers, as the long distance makes tuk-tuk travel impractical.

Passenger Experience: Recent reviews highlight the airport's spacious design, efficient security and immigration processes, friendly staff, and unique features like free drinking water refilling stations throughout the terminal. The quiet, uncrowded atmosphere creates stress-free arrivals, though the remote location adds travel time to reach central Siem Reap.

Why It Might Be Best: For temple enthusiasts and travelers whose primary goal involves experiencing Angkor Wat, this airport provides direct access to Cambodia's cultural heart. The modern facilities, efficient operations, and beautiful Khmer-inspired architecture make it a strong contender for best airport in Cambodia when your itinerary centers on Siem Reap and surrounding attractions.

Siem Reap-Angkor International Airport - Gateway to Ancient Wonders

Phnom Penh International Airport - Historical Transition

Techo International Airport is scheduled to commence commercial operations in late 2025 and is expected to gradually replace Phnom Penh International Airport as Cambodia’s primary international gateway. Prime Minister Hun Manet stated that Pochentong Airport is to be preserved as a historical site, recognizing its origin as the work of His Majesty King Father Norodom Sihanouk, with plans to convert it to a public park and multipurpose area while preserving its runway for emergency landings.

While no longer serving commercial flights, understanding this airport's legacy helps appreciate Cambodia's aviation evolution. In its final full year of operation prior to the transition, Phnom Penh International Airport handled approximately 2.7 million passengers in the first half of the year, representing an increase of 18% and 18% respectively before transitioning operations to Techo International Airport.

Phnom Penh International Airport - Historical Transition

Sihanouk International Airport - Coastal Gateway

Sihanouk International Airport, the third largest airport in Cambodia, was named after the former charismatic King Norodom Sihanouk and serves Cambodia's premier beach destination of Sihanoukville and nearby islands.

Location and Purpose: Located approximately 20 kilometers from Sihanoukville city center, this airport primarily serves tourists heading to Cambodia's southern coast and islands, including Koh Rong and Koh Rong Sanloem. The facility supports growing tourism and business sectors in coastal regions.

Scale and Services: As Cambodia's third-busiest airport, Sihanouk International Airport maintains a smaller scale than Phnom Penh or Siem Reap facilities but offers essential services including currency exchange, basic dining options, and ground transportation. Operating airlines include Cambodia Airways, JC International Airlines, Cambodia Angkor Air, Lanmei Airlines, and several Chinese carriers.

Why It Might Be Best: For beach-focused itineraries or travelers exploring Cambodia's southern islands and coastal attractions, this airport provides convenient direct access without requiring travel through Phnom Penh or Siem Reap. The smaller scale means quicker processing, though fewer amenities.

Sihanouk International Airport - Coastal Gateway

Airlines Serving Cambodia's Airports

Cambodia is served by several domestic and regional airlines, with Cambodia Angkor Air and Cambodia Airways being the most consistently active operators. Airline availability may change due to ongoing market restructuring, which mainly offer domestic flights between Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and Sihanoukville, as well as international flights to other Asian countries like Vietnam, Thailand, and China.

Cambodia Angkor Air is the most popular airline in Cambodia, known for its competitive pricing and quality service. For budget travelers, Bassaka Air and Sky Angkor Airlines provide low-cost options, although their services are more limited than Cambodia Angkor Air.

For international flights from the UK, USA, Canada, Australia, and other English-speaking countries, major airlines such as Vietnam Airlines, Thai Airways, Qatar Airways, and Emirates offer routes to Cambodia with one or two layovers, typically occurring in major hubs like Bangkok, Doha, Dubai, Ho Chi Minh City, or Hanoi.

Determining the Best Airport in Cambodia for Your Needs

After examining all major facilities, determining the singular best airport in Cambodia depends entirely on your specific itinerary and priorities:

For First-Time Visitors Exploring Multiple Destinations: Techo International Airport provides the most modern facilities and central positioning for comprehensive Cambodia tours. From Phnom Penh, you can easily connect to Siem Reap, Battambang, the coastal regions, and neighboring countries.

For Temple-Focused Journeys: Siem Reap-Angkor International Airport wins decisively when Angkor Wat represents your primary destination. The direct access to temple complexes, combined with beautiful terminal design celebrating Khmer culture, creates perfect gateways for cultural immersion.

For Beach Vacations: Sihanouk International Airport serves best when your itinerary focuses primarily on coastal relaxation, island hopping, and southern Cambodia exploration without requiring capital city visits.

For Business Travelers: Techo International Airport's world-class facilities, international management standards, and proximity to government and business districts make it optimal for professional travel.

For Budget-Conscious Backpackers: Compare flight prices to all three airports as promotional fares sometimes make less obvious routings more economical. Flexibility regarding the arrival airport can generate significant savings.

Determining the Best Airport in Cambodia for Your Needs

Essential Arrival Information

Visa Requirements: Most international visitors require a visa for entry. For seamless travel planning, ensure you have proper documentation before departure. Cambodia Immigration Services provides comprehensive eVisa support, making your entry process smooth and efficient regardless of which airport represents the best airport in Cambodia for your itinerary. Their expert team assists with all required documentation and offers real-time application updates.

Immigration Process: All major airports maintain efficient immigration procedures with multiple counters and English-speaking staff. E-visa holders typically process faster than visa-on-arrival applicants. Arrival cards distributed on flights must be completed before reaching immigration counters.

Currency and Money Exchange: 1 US Dollar equals approximately 4,100 Cambodian Riel, though rates fluctuate. USD is widely accepted throughout Cambodia, with small transactions often using Riel. ATMs dispense both currencies, and exchange services are available at major airports.

Transportation Options: All three major airports offer multiple ground transportation choices, including official airport taxis, ride-hailing apps (Grab operates in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap), tuk-tuks, and pre-arranged hotel transfers. Booking transportation in advance often secures better rates than negotiating upon arrival.

Conclusion: Your Perfect Cambodian Arrival Awaits

While each facility offers distinct advantages, the best airport in Cambodia for your journey depends on your destination priorities, budget, and travel style. The brand-new Techo International Airport impresses with world-class infrastructure rivaling any regional hub, making it exceptional for comprehensive Cambodia explorations starting from the capital. Siem Reap-Angkor International Airport excels for temple-focused itineraries with its cultural design and direct Angkor access. Sihanouk International Airport serves beach enthusiasts heading straight to a coastal paradise.

Cambodia's aviation infrastructure transformation demonstrates the kingdom's commitment to welcoming international visitors with modern, efficient facilities that enhance rather than complicate travel experiences. Whichever airport you choose, you'll find helpful staff, adequate amenities, and straightforward processes that begin your Cambodian adventure positively.

Ready to begin your Cambodia journey? Apply for a Cambodia visa online today and start planning which of Cambodia's excellent airports will serve as your gateway to this extraordinary destination!