National flag carrier Air Cambodia’ introduction of a new Tokyo route is expected to generate momentum in several areas of cooperation between Cambodia and the Land of the Rising Sun, particularly terms of tourism, trade and Japanese investment in Cambodia.
Japanses ambassador to Cambodia Ueno Atsushi shared his optimism during the October 26 inauguration of the first flight, between Techo International Airport (TIA) and Narita International Airport (Japan).
Ueno suggested that the launch would generate many positive outcomes in enhancing relations between the governments and peoples of both countries. The flights, he added, would make travel easier and faster, creating new jobs, increasing household incomes and stimulating economic growth in both Cambodia and Japan. He emphasised that the flight marks an important milestone in strengthening bilateral ties.
“I believe this new ‘air bridge’ between Japan and Cambodia will open up countless possibilities for the future development of our bilateral relationship,” he said.
“Easier travel will help boost and expand the flow of tourists, businesspeople and cargo between Japan and Cambodia. I also hope these factors will attract more Japanese investment into Cambodia,” he added.
Mao Havannall, minister in charge of the State Secretariat of Civil Aviation (SSCA), said he was delighted that Air Cambodia has officially launched the new route — via Fuzhou City, China.
He described the new route as “another new achievement for the Cambodian government, the national airline and all involved partners, who continue to explore ways to strengthen international air connectivity between Cambodia and Japan”.
“I strongly believe that the launch of Air Cambodia’s historic route to Japan will make a positive contribution to tourism, trade, logistics and cultural exchange between our two countries, aligning with the vision of Cambodia’s 7th-term Royal Government,” he said.
Before the pandemic, direct flights between Tokyo and Phnom Penh International Airport were operated by All Nippon Airways (ANA). However, due to Covid-19, ANA’s operations have remained suspended until now.
Prior to the pandemic, Cambodia welcomed over 200,000 Japanese visitors each year.
Thourn Sinan, chairman of the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) Cambodia Chapter, told The Post on October 27 that the new connection would bring multiple benefits to both countries — from tourism and cargo transportation to investment opportunities. The new air route would also help foster closer ties between the governments and peoples of Cambodia and Japan.
“As someone working in the tourism sector, we have long awaited the return of direct routes between Cambodia and Japan. This route will not only bring Japanese tourists but also attract more Japanese investors to Cambodia,” he said.
According to the SSCA, as of the first nine months of 2025, Cambodia’s aviation sector included 33 domestic and international airlines operating routes across regional and global destinations. These include flights to eight ASEAN countries, as well as to China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, South Korea, India, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates.
During the first nine months of 2025, Cambodia’s three international airports — in Phnom Penh, Siem Reap and Preah Sihanouk — handled more than 5.1 million passengers, an increase of 14% compared to the same period in 2024.
According to the Ministry of Tourism, Cambodia received 4.05 million international visitors in the first eight months of 2025 — a 5.6% decrease compared to the same period in 2024. Among them were 72,964 Japanese visitors, down 1.1% year-on-year.
