Phnom penh: The Techo International Airport (TIA) was officially inaugurated this morning under the presidency of Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet, Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Cambodia, and First Lady, Lok Chumteav Dr. Pich Chanmony Hun Manet.

According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, Samdech Thipadei emphasized the airport’s significance as a reflection of Cambodia’s long-term development vision, expressing hope that TIA will attract more tourists and investors to the country. H.E. Dr. Mao Havannall, Minister in Charge of the State Secretariat of Civil Aviation (SSCA), described the airport as a crucial connector to the world, supporting Cambodia’s tourism industry and economic growth.

Lok Neak Oknha Pung Kheav Se, Chairman of the Cambodia Airport Investment Corporation (CAIC), reported that the project cost US$2.3 billion, covering the construction of various terminals and infrastructure necessary for airport operations. The airport is planned to be developed in three phases, with passenger handling capacities of 13 million, 30 million, and 50 million respectively.

The airport has already begun hosting direct flights from Etihad Airways as of October 4, with Turkish Airlines set to commence operations on December 10, 2025. Pung Kheav Se noted that these routes will enhance connectivity between Phnom Penh and major cities across several continents. He also highlighted that Cathay Pacific has chosen TIA as an alternative parking location for 13 aircraft during Typhoon Ragasa, indicating confidence in the airport’s capabilities.

Located over 2,600 hectares across parts of Kandal and Takeo provinces, TIA is approximately 20 kilometers from Phnom Penh. It began operations on September 9, 2025, and is classified as a 4F-level international airport, capable of accommodating large aircraft like the Airbus A380 and Boeing 747.