Cambodia’s Sihanoukville Welcomes Direct Flights from Kunming

Sihanouk International Airport (KOS)

Strengthening Air Connectivity and Tourism

Cambodia’s coastal city of Sihanoukville is now directly connected to China’s Kunming with the launch of a new flight route, marking a significant milestone in the country’s tourism and air travel development. The service, operated by Ruili Airlines, aims to facilitate travel, strengthen business ties, and support trade relations between Cambodia and China.

 

The Inaugural Flight Experience

On 26 August 2025, Sihanouk International Airport (KOS) welcomed Ruili Airlines’ first flight from Kunming Changshui International Airport (KMG). The arrival was celebrated with a warm reception, including local welcome dances and gifts for the 85 passengers onboard. The route will operate twice weekly, every Tuesday and Saturday, providing travellers with a convenient, direct link between the two countries.

 

Boosting Tourism and Business Opportunities

Sok Phea, Deputy Governor of Preah Sihanouk Province, highlighted the importance of the new connection. He explained that the flight will not only increase tourist arrivals but also enhance business and trade opportunities between Cambodia and China. As more Chinese visitors explore Sihanoukville, they are expected to promote the province’s tourism potential in their homeland, paving the way for future air service expansions.

 

Air Travel Recovery and Future Prospects

Sihanouk International Airport (KOS)

The launch of the Kunming-Sihanoukville route is part of Cambodia’s broader strategy to restore international air connectivity. Vann Nora from the State Secretariat of Civil Aviation emphasised that this new service plays a crucial role in revitalising Sihanoukville’s tourism industry, which has been steadily recovering. The addition of this route is expected to boost local businesses, create jobs, and encourage more flights to connect the province with other global destinations.

 

Sihanoukville’s Growing Air Network

Sihanouk International Airport now serves multiple domestic and international destinations, including Bangkok, Saigon, Wuxi, Kuala Lumpur, and Kunming. According to the latest data, Cambodia welcomed 4.08 million air travellers in the first seven months of 2025, representing a 16 percent increase year-on-year. The addition of the Kunming route reinforces Cambodia’s commitment to expanding its tourism infrastructure and meeting growing demand from international travellers.

 

Travelling to Sihanoukville

With pristine beaches, vibrant markets, and cultural attractions, Sihanoukville is an emerging hotspot for tourists from China and beyond. The new direct flight from Kunming offers an easier, faster, and more convenient way to explore the province, whether for leisure, business, or cultural exchange.

For more information about travelling to Cambodia, visit:
Cambodia Airports – https://www.cambodia-airports.aero/

For more travel inspiration read the daily online "The Holiday and Travel Magazine" https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/