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AirAsia Cambodia officially commenced operations on May 2, 2024, after receiving its Air Operator Certificate (AOC) on May 1, 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 transit hubs in Kuala Lumpur and Bangkok.
The ribbon-cutting ceremony marked the official launch of AirAsia Cambodia.
The launch of the new airline marks a significant milestone for AirAsia Group, especially after the recent announcement of its “ONE Airline” strategy. AirAsia Cambodia is now perfectly positioned to become a force in the low-cost air travel sector in both domestic and international markets, leveraging the Group's core strengths to attract customers, drive operations, and ultimately achieve sustainable growth and profitability.
Speaking at the event, Mr. Tony Fernades, CEO of Capital A, happily stated: “Today is a memorable milestone for AirAsia as we open a new chapter in Cambodia – where the story of perseverance, resilience and growth has inspired us. We would like to express our sincere gratitude to the State Committee for Civil Aviation of Cambodia (SSCA) for approving AirAsia’s Air Operator Certificate. The opportunities present in a country with such immense economic potential as Cambodia are truly attractive thanks to its strategic location in the ASEAN region. Cambodia’s increasing economic growth trajectory and ability to integrate into the global economy make it a key player in the region’s development.”
Guests tour the aircraft and experience AirAsia Cambodia's first flight.
“AirAsia’s expansion into the Cambodian market is a clear testament to our deep understanding of ASEAN. A population of 17 million with a growing young demographic provides a significant customer base and opportunities to meet domestic demand, thereby contributing to national economic development. As AirAsia Cambodia prepares to launch, we are leveraging these very opportunities to develop a broader ecosystem for the sectors in which Capital A operates. From digital business activities such as the AirAsia MOVE online booking app to fintech BigPay, logistics Teleport, and the Capital A Aviation Services Group including MRO provider Asia Digital Engineering, we aim to integrate a wide range of services to expand our capabilities in providing superior services to the ASEAN community,” affirmed Tony Fernades.
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 Cambodian ingenuity and dedication, created to serve the needs of our people, going beyond mere transportation. With a solid foundation, we are committed to enhancing community spirit, empowering entrepreneurs, and driving exponential economic growth.”
Improvements in air connectivity have 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. As AirAsia Cambodia joins this 'game,' we are poised to further expand this growth, while opening 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) pose for a commemorative photo with Mr. Mao Havannal, Minister of the State Committee for Civil Aviation of Cambodia (SSCA).
Mr. Vissoth Nam added: “We are also deeply grateful for the support from the Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Cambodia, Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet, in establishing this domestic airline – a step that reaffirms our shared commitment to providing easily accessible travel options for the Cambodian people. With the invaluable support from the Prime Minister, we are ready and confident in our ability to connect communities, facilitate economic exchange, and foster cultural relations in the region. His support has further strengthened our resolve to promote positive change and prosperity within ASEAN and beyond, starting in Cambodia.”
AirAsia operates a total of six direct routes to Cambodia, departing from Kuala Lumpur and Bangkok, carrying 1.3 million passengers to the Kingdom. AirAsia Cambodia will announce international destinations in the next quarter after a thorough assessment of market demand and potential.
