Turkish Airlines will begin operating its first direct flights between Istanbul, Republic of Türkiye, and Phnom Penh, Kingdom of Cambodia, on December 10, 2025, according to an announcement made following a bilateral meeting in Phnom Penh.
On September 16, 2025, Minister of Tourism H.E. Mr. HUOT Hak met with H.E. Mrs. ÜLKÜ KOCAEFE, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Türkiye, alongside a delegation from Turkish Airlines led by Vice President Mr. UMIT Develi. The officials confirmed the launch of the direct service linking Istanbul with Cambodia’s Techo International Airport.
Direct Connection Between Türkiye and Cambodia
The meeting focused on strengthening air connectivity and tourism cooperation. Minister HUOT Hak said he appreciated and highly valued the support of the Embassy of Türkiye and Turkish Airlines, noting the significance of the carrier’s decision to introduce direct flights to Cambodia.
“He appreciated and highly valued the good and continuous cooperation and support of the friend Embassy of Türkiye and Turkish Airlines, which saw the strong tourism potential as a newly emerging market shining under the shade of peace and trust in the wise leadership and long-term vision of the Royal Government of Cambodia,” the ministry said in a statement.
The minister highlighted the role of Techo International Airport, describing it as a modern achievement of the Cambodian government. He underscored that the airport’s capabilities were central to the decision to operate direct flights from Istanbul.
Boost for Tourism and Connectivity
The new service is expected to increase the flow of international passengers and tourists to Cambodia. Turkish Airlines, which flies to more than 350 destinations in 130 countries, will add Phnom Penh to its global network, offering a direct link for travelers from Türkiye and Europe to Southeast Asia.
According to the Ministry of Tourism, the December launch represents an important step in enhancing Cambodia’s visibility as a destination and broadening access to the country’s growing tourism market. Officials stressed that the partnership with Turkish Airlines aligns with the government’s strategy to expand tourism under stable conditions and long-term planning.
The announcement comes as Cambodia positions Techo International Airport as a central hub for regional travel. The airport’s advanced infrastructure is expected to handle increasing volumes of international flights and contribute to the development of Cambodia’s aviation and tourism industries.
By connecting Istanbul and Phnom Penh directly, Turkish Airlines aims to facilitate easier travel for business and leisure passengers while supporting economic and cultural ties between the two nations. The route also provides additional connectivity for travelers from Europe, the Middle East, and Africa to Cambodia via Istanbul.
The introduction of this route marks a milestone in bilateral cooperation between Türkiye and Cambodia. The collaboration underscores the mutual recognition of tourism’s role in economic growth and the importance of direct air links in fostering international exchange.