Phnom Penh, Oct 28—Cambodia announced a new seasonal route linking Seoul‑Incheon to Siem Reap’s Angkor International Airport, a decision that will directly affect tourists, airline operators, and the local tourism economy.
The announcement came from Sinn Chanserey Vutha, a secretary of state and spokesperson for Cambodia’s State Secretariat of Civil Aviation (SSCA). Vutha said that Trinity Airways will operate daily flights between the two airports from December 24, 2026 to March 3, 2027, utilizing Boeing 737‑800 aircraft.
New Seasonal Service
According to the SSCA’s release, the daily flights will help boost tourism to the UNESCO‑listed Angkor Archaeological Park, one of Cambodia’s biggest economic engines. The service will run during the country’s peak tourist season, when visitor numbers traditionally rise to record highs.
"The service supports Cambodia's tourism growth and its international connectivity," Vutha said, noting that the SSCA remains committed to facilitating airline operations, expanding market access and collaborating with aviation and tourism partners.
Trinity Airways, a South‑Korean carrier, will operate the route with a fleet of Boeing 737‑800s. The scheduled run times have not yet been disclosed, but the daily frequency is expected to match the high demand for travel to the Angkor region during winter.
Impact on Tourism and Connectivity
The new link comes at a time when Cambodia’s international air passenger traffic has seen a decline, dropping 11 percent year‑on‑year to 4.55 million during the first nine months of 2026. That trend has pressured the national tourism board to seek new routes and partnerships that can draw visitors back to the capital area and provincial attractions.
By adding direct flights from a major world city, Phnom Penh’s authorities hope to reduce travel time for visitors, making Cambodia a more attractive alternative to its regional competitors for travelers headed to Southeast Asia. The SSCA’s spokesperson suggested that the new connectivity could help strengthen Cambodia's overall economic development.
Local workers in Siem Reap, whose livelihoods often depend on tourism, are expected to benefit from higher visitor numbers. Hotel operators, tour companies and transportation services in the region may see an increase in demand during the December‑March window.
The plan also reflects Cambodia’s broader regional strategy. The SSCA has repeatedly stated its commitment to foster airline operations and expand market access across the ASEAN region, aiming to position the country as a well‑connected hub for international travel.
For Korean tourists, the new route offers an alternative to the previously available connection via a stopover in Thailand or Vietnam. It may also provide a smoother travel experience for those seeking to visit both the bustling capital of Seoul and the ancient temples of Angkor in a single trip.
The SSR (short for State Secretariat of Civil Aviation) will continuously monitor the route’s performance and report on future expansions. Depending on the success of the 2026‑2027 season, additional destinations or extended operating periods could be considered.
In summary, the decision to launch daily summer‑season flights between Seoul and Siem Reap is designed to support Cambodia’s tourism growth, enhance international connectivity, and stimulate local economies across the Angkor region.
