Sihanoukville, Cambodia – A new direct air link between Guangzhou, China, and Sihanoukville, Cambodia, commenced operations on , signaling a deepening of economic and tourism ties between the two nations. The route, launched by Cambodia Angkor Air, aims to capitalize on Sihanoukville’s burgeoning status as a coastal tourism destination and provide a more convenient connection for Chinese travelers.
The new service operates three times weekly – on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays – and offers a flight time of approximately three hours. This represents a significant reduction in travel time compared to previous routing options, according to officials at Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport. The addition of the Sihanoukville route marks the third new international destination added at the airport’s Terminal 3 this year.
Sihanoukville, once a quiet fishing town, has undergone rapid development in recent years, transforming into a hub for casino resorts and attracting significant Chinese investment. This growth has been accompanied by a surge in tourism, particularly from mainland China. The new air route is expected to further accelerate this trend, providing easier access to the region’s beaches, islands, and entertainment facilities.
The route is being operated using Airbus A320 aircraft, configured to accommodate around 180 passengers. Flight schedules are designed to appeal to both leisure and business travelers. Departures from Sihanoukville are scheduled for early evening, allowing passengers to maximize their time enjoying Cambodia’s coastline before traveling. Arrivals into Xiamen are timed for later the same night, facilitating convenient same-day connectivity.
Beyond tourism, the new air link is anticipated to boost trade and investment flows between Cambodia and southeastern China. Xiamen, a major port city and special economic zone, serves as a key gateway for trade with Southeast Asia. The direct flight will streamline the movement of goods and facilitate business interactions between companies in both regions.
The launch of the Sihanoukville-Xiamen route is part of a broader trend of increased connectivity between China and Southeast Asian nations. Several Chinese airlines have been expanding their networks in the region, driven by growing demand for travel, and trade. Sky Angkor Airlines, the operator of the new route, has been actively expanding its China network following regulatory approvals earlier this month.
The Cambodian government has actively courted Chinese investment and tourism in recent years, viewing China as a key economic partner. The country has implemented policies to attract foreign investment and streamline visa procedures for Chinese tourists. This proactive approach has contributed to a significant increase in Chinese arrivals, making China one of Cambodia’s largest sources of foreign tourists.
The development of Sihanoukville’s tourism infrastructure has not been without its challenges. Concerns have been raised about the environmental impact of rapid development and the potential for social disruption. However, Cambodian authorities have stated their commitment to sustainable tourism practices and responsible investment.
The new route also positions Sihanoukville International Airport as an increasingly important gateway for Cambodia’s coastal tourism corridor. The airport has undergone recent upgrades to accommodate the growing number of passengers and flights. Further expansion plans are underway to enhance the airport’s capacity and facilities.
Air Cambodia also offers flights to a number of Chinese cities, including Beijing, Chengdu, Fuzhou, Guangzhou, Shanghai, and Xiamen, as well as other destinations throughout Asia and beyond. The increased connectivity provided by both Air Cambodia and Cambodia Angkor Air underscores the growing importance of air travel in facilitating economic and cultural exchange between Cambodia and the wider world.
The launch of this new route comes as Cambodia continues to navigate a complex geopolitical landscape. The country maintains close ties with China, while also seeking to diversify its partnerships with other countries. The increased economic integration with China, facilitated by initiatives like the new air route, is likely to further strengthen this relationship.
Looking ahead, the success of the Sihanoukville-Xiamen route will depend on a number of factors, including the continued growth of the Chinese economy, the stability of the regional tourism market, and the ability of Cambodian authorities to manage the challenges associated with rapid development. However, the initial signs are positive, and the new air link is poised to play a significant role in shaping the future of tourism and trade between Cambodia and China.
