Siem Reap, Cambodia - The Secretariat of State for Civil Aviation has announced the inauguration of Siem Reap Angkor International Airport on October 16, 2023. Situated in the Soutr Nikom district, approximately 40 kilometers from the city of Siem Reap, the airport promises to serve as a major gateway to this renowned tourist destination.
The notification, issued on July 27, 2023, informs national and international air transport operators, as well as the public, that the new international airport, located in Kriel Pong village, Popel commune, and Praveal village, Tapak commune, Sot Nikum district, Siem Reap province, has been officially named Siem Reap Angkor International Airport.
According to Sinn Chanserivutha, the spokesperson for Civil Aviation, Siem Reap Angkor International Airport has received its official IATA Code, "SAI," from the International Air Transport Association, and its ICAO Code, "VDSA," from the International Civil Aviation Organization.
Siem Reap Angkor International Airport assumes full responsibility for handling all passenger and air cargo flights presently operating at Siem Reap International Airport (REP). This seamless transfer will take effect from Midnight (Cambodian time).
Ahead of the official opening, Siem Reap Angkor International Airport will conduct a series of test flights as needed, non-commercial and non-profit, between October 5 and 15, 2023.
Ms. Chhay Sivlin, President of the Association of Travel Agents of Cambodia, highlighted the significance of the new airport for the future of tourism in Cambodia. She emphasized the importance of enhancing the confidence of all tourists by utilizing knowledge, skills, and professional ethics to compete in attracting visitors to the region.
"We are confident that the transfer of flights will be a smooth process,"
"We have been working closely with airlines and other stakeholders to ensure that everything is in place for the transition." said Sin Chansereyvutha, spokesman for the State Secretariat of Civil Aviation.
The construction of the airport began in 2018, and it was originally scheduled to be completed in 2021. However, the project was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
