Ever wondered how Phnom Penh International Airport became Cambodia’s busiest? It’s a tale of resilience. This airport serves as the main international gateway. It is located 10 kilometers west of Phnom Penh.
Phnom Penh International Airport wasn’t always the modern hub we see today. During the Japanese occupation, as many as fifteen airports were built across Cambodia. This included the site of the current airport. These airports were reportedly built using slave labor. After Cambodia gained independence from France in 1953, King Norodom Sihanouk ordered airstrips built. He also ordered improvements to existing sites.
The Cambodian War saw Phnom Penh International Airport play a crucial role. It became a lifeline for airlifting military and civilian supplies. In late 1973, C-130s transported 3,000 tons of rice via airlift. By April 1975, it was the sole path for supplies into Phnom Penh.
The Khmer Republic’s collapse in 1975 nearly shut Pochentong down. International travel ceased except for flights from Beijing. These flights brought cadres to train the new government. Some Cambodian intellectuals and diplomats also returned.
A major turning point came in July 1995. The Royal Government of Cambodia signed a concession agreement. It was with Societé Concessionaire d’Aéroport, a French–Malaysian joint venture. Vinci Airports owned 70% and Muhibbah Masteron owned 30%. The company committed to a 20-year, $100 million improvement program.
In 2014, a $100 million project expanded the passenger terminals at Phnom Penh International Airport. This expansion doubled the airport’s capacity. It could then handle 5 million passengers annually. Previously, it only handled 2.5 million.
There were bumps in the road. In 2015, a Cambodian politician questioned the concession agreement. He suggested Cambodia might be getting a bad deal.
In 2020, SCA lost the concession for Phnom Penh. However, Vinci Airports remained as the operator. The government approved plans for a new airport in 2018. This new airport will eventually replace the existing Phnom Penh International Airport. It is estimated to cost US$1.5 billion.
Interestingly, Phnom Penh airport will remain active after the new airport opens. It will primarily serve air freight, military, local, private flights, and high-level visitors.
Today, Phnom Penh International Airport stands at an elevation of 40 feet. It features one runway measuring 3,000 by 50 meters. There are two terminal buildings. One serves international and the other serves domestic operations. The international terminal boasts aerobridges. Four were built in 2003. Three more were added during the terminal expansion.
Phnom Penh International Airport has overcome many challenges. It continues to evolve. This airport connects Cambodia to the world. It welcomes millions of passengers each year. From its humble beginnings to its present-day status, Phnom Penh International Airport symbolizes Cambodia’s growth.