Phnom Penh’s New Techo International Airport: A Gateway to Cambodia’s Future

It's here! Phnom Penh's brand new Techo International Airport has opened it's doors!

The a state-of-the-art facility designed to replace the aging Phnom Penh International Airport propel's the nation into a new era of connectivity, tourism, and trade.

A Landmark Project

Located about 20 km south of Phnom Penh, straddling Kandal and Takeo provinces, the Techo International Airport is one of Cambodia’s most ambitious infrastructure projects to date. With an initial investment of US$1.5 billion (potentially rising toward US$2 billion), the airport spans an enormous 2,600 hectares, making it one of the largest in the region.

Once fully operational, it will not only serve as the capital’s main airport but also become a powerful symbol of Cambodia’s modernization and aspirations to compete regionally with major hubs like Bangkok and Ho Chi Minh City.

Phnom Penhs new airport -World-Class Architecture

The project’s design was entrusted to Foster + Partners, one of the world’s leading architecture firms. Their vision goes beyond functionality:

• A lightweight steel grid-shell roof stretches across the terminal, creating an open, airy atmosphere filled with natural light.

• The structure is supported by striking “structural trees”, some allowing real greenery to grow through the building.

• Cambodian identity is woven into the design, with forms inspired by local timber traditions and motifs that evoke the country’s vernacular architecture.

• Sustainability is central: shaded spaces, natural ventilation, and an onsite solar farm are planned to minimize environmental impact.

The result is a terminal that feels both futuristic and deeply rooted in Cambodian culture.

Capacity and Phases

The Techo International Airport is being developed in phases to match Cambodia’s growing demand:

• Phase 1 (2025): Capacity for 13 million passengers per year, a 4,000-metre runway, and a single aerofoil-style terminal.

• Phase 2 (~2030): Expansion to 30 million passengers per year with a second runway and larger terminal space.

• Phase 3 (~2050): Long-term plans to accommodate 50 million passengers annually, including satellite concourses and more advanced facilities.

Classified as a 4F airport, the highest international standard, TIA will be able to welcome the world’s largest commercial aircraft—essential for long-haul connectivity.

Beyond the Terminal

The airport is more than just a travel hub. It is planned as an “airport city”, with surrounding developments including logistics centers, hotels, and commercial zones. Improved road links and potential future rail connections will tie the airport seamlessly to Phnom Penh.

For Cambodia, the benefits are enormous: jobs, economic stimulation, and a much-needed boost to the tourism sector, which remains one of the country’s strongest economic drivers.

Challenges Ahead

Of course, challenges remain. The distance from central Phnom Penh means that efficient transport links are essential. Large-scale projects like this also face risks of cost overruns and delays. And while forecasts suggest booming passenger growth, Cambodia must ensure demand keeps pace with capacity.

That said, the Techo International Airport represents a bold bet on Cambodia’s future—a modern, sustainable, and culturally distinctive hub that could redefine the country’s place on the global aviation map.

Quick Facts

• Cost: US$1.5–2 billion

• Site Size: 2,600 hectares

• Phase 1 Capacity: 13 million passengers/year

• Future Capacity: 30M (2030), 50M (2050)

• Runway: 4,000 metres (capable of handling the world’s largest aircraft)

• Designers: Foster + Partners (UK)

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Arriving in Cambodia

At Explore Cambodia, we know that a warm welcome sets the tone for an unforgettable trip. That’s why we offer airport transfers for all our guests—making your arrival at Phnom Penh’s new Techo International Airport smooth, stress-free, and the perfect start to your Cambodian adventure. From the runway to your hotel, we’ll handle the details so you can focus on experiencing this amazing country.

Final Thoughts

The Techo International Airport isn’t just an airport—it’s a statement of intent. With cutting-edge design, sustainable planning, and massive capacity, it positions Phnom Penh as a rising aviation hub in Southeast Asia. As Cambodia continues to attract more visitors and investors, this new gateway could become one of the country’s defining landmarks for decades to come.