ANN/THE PHNOM PENH POST – Dara Sakor International Airport, operated by Coastal Airport Investment Co Ltd (CAI), launched trial operations with the successful arrival of a chartered flight from Phnom Penh International Airport carrying over 50 passengers.
Situated in the Kiri Sakor and Botum Sakor districts of Koh Kong Province, the airport represents a USD200-million investment by CAI. The initial phase of the project spans 218 hectares, with plans to expand to an additional 1,000 hectares in subsequent phases. The development is part of the broader Union Development Group project.
The ‘First Domestic Chartered Flight Arriva’” ceremony was attended by Minister in Charge of the State Secretariat of Civil Aviation (SSCA), Mao Havannal, who praised the collaboration between CAI and SSCA teams for the milestone achievement. Havannal credited Cambodia’s political stability over the past two decades for advancements in various sectors, including aviation.
“Dara Sakor International Airport will play a pivotal role in connecting Koh Kong province with other domestic and international airports, boosting tourism, trade and the economy nationwide,” he said.
The trial flight, operated by Cambodia Angkor Air, primarily carried CAI staff, government officials, and representatives from tourism associations and companies. SSCA spokesperson Sinn Chanserey Vutha stated that while the airport plans to support domestic flights in the future, its official operations will depend on market demand.
The airport is projected to handle seven million passengers and 10,000 tonnes of cargo annually in its initial phase, with long-term plans to increase capacity to 20 million passengers and 60,000 tonnes of cargo annually between 2030 and 2050, according to CAI.
Chairman of the Cambodia Tourism Association (CATA) Ho Vandy emphasised the economic and tourism benefits of improved air connectivity. “Air travel offers an efficient option for tourists with limited time, enabling visits to iconic sites like the ancient temples of Siem Reap and Cambodia’s coastal areas,” he said.
The opening of Dara Sakor International Airport was initially scheduled for 2022 but faced delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
