Cambodia opens Techo International Airport after £1.4bn makeover
New hub aims to absorb growing traffic and support a push to attract up to 30 million visitors a year as the country expands its aviation network.
Cambodia reopened one of the world’s largest airports on Sept. 9, 2025, after a £1.4 billion renovation designed to position Techo International Airport as a premier gateway to the country. Officials say the new international hub is expected to welcome as many as 30 million passengers annually once fully ramped up, part of a broader push to grow tourism and investment.
The project replaces Phnom Penh International Airport as the capital’s main aviation hub and sits about 20 kilometers south of the city. Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen announced on social media that Techo International Airport will extend Cambodia’s connection to the world, tying into broader efforts to attract investment, strengthen diplomatic ties and promote other destinations. The official opening included a ceremonial welcome for the first commercial Air Cambodia flight from China, with a water cannon salute as the Airbus A320 passed under plumes from fire trucks.
The terminal building spans more than 240,000 square metres and is being developed in three phases. In its initial phase, Techo International Airport will be able to handle about 13 million passengers a year and will ultimately expand to 30 million, with a long-term target of 50 million. The complex will feature three runways, extensive duty-free and shopping areas, multiple food halls and other amenities designed to streamline travel. Sustainability lies at the core of the project: planners say it aims to be among the greenest airports in the world, combining cutting-edge technology with local craftsmanship to minimize running costs.
Foster + Partners designed the facility, describing the project as inspired by Cambodia’s rich heritage and history while presenting a modern, contemporary interpretation of Cambodian culture. The layout and materials are intended to reflect local identity while delivering international standards for efficiency, comfort and energy performance.
Cambodia’s push to upgrade its airport network comes as neighboring Vietnam prepares to open Long Thanh International Airport in 2026, underscoring a regional push to expand hub capacity and capture rising tourist and business traffic in Southeast Asia.
Tourism data published for early 2025 show the country’s travel sector continuing its growth trajectory. Oun’s analysis indicates Cambodia welcomed about 2.95 million international travelers from January through May 2025, an 11.7 percent year-over-year increase, underscoring the potential impact of the new mega hub on visitor numbers and regional connectivity.
The Techo project is being developed in phases with a stated aim of easing congestion at the capital’s existing facility and supporting a broader strategy to diversify the economy through travel, trade and investment. Officials emphasize that the airport’s expansion aligns with national revenue goals and Cambodia’s broader ambitions to strengthen diplomatic relations and broaden international exposure for the country.