Siem Reap is working to attract more international flights as Cambodia looks to strengthen air connectivity to its most important cultural and tourism destination.
On August 12, 2026, Cambodia’s State Secretariat of Civil Aviation and the operator of Siem Reap Angkor International Airport (SAI) discussed plans to expand the airport’s international flight network and attract more passengers to Siem Reap.
For travelers, the important point is that new routes are being pursued, but specific additional international routes have not yet been officially confirmed.
Siem Reap Airport Wants More International Connections
During the August meeting, officials reviewed the airport’s passenger traffic and discussed ways to expand its international connectivity.
Potential markets identified for stronger direct connections included China, India, South Korea, the Middle East and other ASEAN countries.
The discussions also included possible airport service-fee incentives intended to encourage airlines to introduce new routes or increase services.
This is part of a wider effort to restore passenger growth at Siem Reap Angkor International Airport, which opened in October 2023 and replaced the former airport serving the city.
How Busy Is Siem Reap Airport in 2026?
Siem Reap Angkor International Airport handled 714,133 passengers during the first half of 2026, according to Cambodia’s State Secretariat of Civil Aviation.
For comparison, the airport handled approximately 1.47 million passengers during the whole of 2025.
Although passenger traffic has been recovering, the airport is still operating below its pre-pandemic passenger levels. This is one of the reasons Cambodian aviation authorities and the airport operator are looking for additional international markets and flight connections.
Which New Routes Are Being Considered?
The authorities have identified several markets where additional direct connections could help increase international arrivals to Siem Reap.
- China
- India
- South Korea
- Middle Eastern markets
- ASEAN countries
However, travelers should be careful with reports about new flights. The August announcement describes these markets as targets for expanded connectivity. It does not confirm that a particular airline will launch a specific route on a specific date.
Flight schedules should therefore be checked directly with airlines and the airport before making travel plans.
What Does This Mean for Travelers?
For international visitors, more direct flights could make Siem Reap easier to reach without connecting through Phnom Penh or another regional airport.
This could be particularly useful for travelers coming from Asia and the Middle East who want to visit Angkor Wat as part of a wider Southeast Asia itinerary.
For travelers already planning a trip, however, there is no need to wait for potential new routes. Existing flight connections can still be used, and the situation should be checked again if you are traveling later in 2026.
Our guide to getting to Siem Reap covers the main options for reaching the city.
Why Air Connectivity Matters for Siem Reap
Siem Reap is the main gateway for travelers visiting Angkor Archaeological Park, but the distance between the new airport and the temples makes convenient international air connections particularly important.
More direct flights could make it easier for international travelers to include Siem Reap in a short Cambodia itinerary or combine it with destinations in neighboring countries.
The airport and tourism authorities are also interested in encouraging visitors to stay longer in Siem Reap rather than treating the city as a short stop before moving on.
For travelers planning a multi-day visit, our Siem Reap travel guide covers accommodation, attractions and practical information.
Where Should You Stay in Siem Reap?
If you are flying into Siem Reap to visit Angkor, staying in the city is generally the most convenient option.
Siem Reap offers a wide range of accommodation, restaurants, tour operators and transportation services, making it an easy base for exploring the temples.
Travelers planning an early morning visit can also benefit from choosing accommodation that makes it easy to reach Angkor before sunrise.
See our guide to where to stay in Siem Reap and our selection of the best hotels in Siem Reap when planning your accommodation.
Could More Flights Be Added Later in 2026?
It is possible, but there is no confirmed timetable for the additional routes discussed in August.
The airport operator and Cambodian aviation authorities are actively working to attract airlines and expand the network, but a proposed market is not the same as a confirmed flight route.
Travelers should therefore look for an official airline announcement before changing an itinerary or booking a trip specifically around a potential new direct flight.
What Travelers Should Do Now
- Check current flights to Siem Reap before booking your Cambodia itinerary.
- Do not rely on unconfirmed reports about future routes.
- Check airline websites for officially announced new services.
- If you are planning to visit Angkor, allow enough time in Siem Reap rather than treating it only as an overnight stop.
- Consider staying in Siem Reap for several nights to combine Angkor with other local attractions and activities.
Bottom Line
Siem Reap Angkor International Airport and Cambodian aviation authorities are working to attract more international flights, with China, India, South Korea, the Middle East and ASEAN markets identified as potential areas for stronger connectivity.
The airport handled 714,133 passengers in the first half of 2026, and authorities are looking for ways to increase passenger traffic and strengthen Siem Reap’s international connections.
For travelers, the development is positive, but no specific new international routes should be considered confirmed until an airline or airport officially announces them.
Sources
- Agence Kampuchea Presse (AKP) — Siem Reap Angkor International Airport Handles 714,133 Passengers in First Half of 2026.
- State Secretariat of Civil Aviation / Cambodian aviation authorities — information on airport connectivity and route-development discussions.