AirAsia Cambodia officially commenced operations on 2 May 2024 after being granted an Air Operator Certificate (AOC) on 1 May 2024. With an initial fleet of two Airbus A320s, the airline will operate flights from the bustling Phnom Penh International Airport (PNH) to iconic cities such as Siem Reap and Sihanoukville and further destinations via hubs in Kuala Lumpur and Bangkok.
Ribbon cutting ceremony marks the official launch of AirAsia Cambodia
The launch of the new airline marks a significant milestone for the AirAsia Group, especially following the recent announcement of the “ONE Airline” strategy. AirAsia Cambodia is now perfectly positioned to become a force in low-cost air travel in both the domestic and international markets, leveraging the Group’s core strengths to attract customers, drive operations, and drive sustainable growth and profitability.
Speaking at the event, Mr. Tony Fernandez, CEO of Capital A, said: “Today is a significant milestone for AirAsia as we open a new chapter in Cambodia - a story of perseverance, resilience and growth that has inspired us. We would like to express our sincere gratitude to the State Commission for Civil Aviation of Cambodia (SSCA) for approving AirAsia’s Air Operator Certificate. The opportunities that exist in a country with such great economic potential as Cambodia are truly compelling due to its strategic location within ASEAN. Cambodia’s economic growth trajectory and increasing integration into the global economy position the country as a key player in the region’s development.”
Guests tour the aircraft and experience the first flight of AirAsia Cambodia
“AirAsia’s expansion into the Cambodian market is a clear demonstration of our deep understanding of ASEAN. With a population of 17 million and a growing young population, we have a significant customer base and the opportunity to cater to domestic demand, thereby contributing to the country’s economic development. As AirAsia Cambodia prepares to take off, we are leveraging these opportunities to develop a broader ecosystem for the industries that Capital A operates in. From digital businesses such as the AirAsia MOVE online booking app to BigPay fintech, Teleport logistics and Capital A Aviation Services Group, which includes MRO service provider Asia Digital Engineering, we look forward to integrating multiple services to expand our capabilities to provide exceptional services to the ASEAN community,” said Tony Fernandes.
Mr. Vissoth Nam, CEO of AirAsia Cambodia also shared: “AirAsia has been operating in Cambodia for many years and we are proud to mark a new milestone not only for the aviation industry in the region but also for the country. AirAsia Cambodia is a testament to the ingenuity and dedication of Cambodians, created to serve the needs of our people beyond mere transportation. With a strong foundation, we are committed to uplifting the community spirit, empowering entrepreneurs and driving economic growth with a multiplier effect.
Improved air connectivity has contributed to the steady growth of the tourism industry in the ASEAN region, with an average annual growth rate of approximately 10% over the past decade. With AirAsia Cambodia joining the game, we are poised to further expand this growth and open up new experiences and opportunities for millions of Cambodians with world-class value and service.”
AirAsia Cambodia CEO Vissoth Nam (left) and Capital A CEO Tony Fernades (right) take a souvenir photo with Mr. Mao Havannal - Minister, State Commission for Civil Aviation of Cambodia (SSCA)
“We are also deeply grateful for the support from His Excellency Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet, Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Cambodia, in establishing this domestic airline, a move that reaffirms our shared commitment to providing accessible travel options for the people of Cambodia. With the invaluable support of His Excellency, we are ready and confident in our ability to connect communities, facilitate economic exchanges and develop cultural ties in the region. His support has further strengthened our resolve to promote positive change and prosperity within ASEAN and beyond, starting from Cambodia,” added Mr. Vissoth Nam.
AirAsia operates a total of six direct flights to Cambodia, departing from Kuala Lumpur and Bangkok, carrying 1.3 million passengers to the Kingdom. AirAsia Cambodia will announce its international destinations in the coming quarters after a thorough assessment of market demand and potential.
