Cambodia is reaffirming its commitment to strengthening aviation safety and security while accelerating digital transformation and the adoption of modern technology across the sector. The move comes as Cambodia prepares to participate in the 61st Conference of Directors General of Civil Aviation for the Asia and Pacific Regions, scheduled for September 7 to 11, 2026, in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Dr. Mao Havannall, Minister in Charge of the State Secretariat of Civil Aviation ((SSCA) of Cambodia, will lead Cambodia’s civil aviation delegation to the regional meeting. The gathering will provide an important opportunity for Cambodia to exchange experience with aviation leaders and experts while exploring emerging technologies and innovative solutions that could support a safer, more secure, sustainable and efficient aviation sector.
Cambodia’s participation in the regional aviation meeting signals a broader effort to modernize its aviation system, strengthen international cooperation and use technology to improve safety, connectivity, efficiency and long term sector development.
Cambodia puts aviation safety and technology in focus
Cambodia says it will continue strengthening aviation safety and security while promoting digital transformation and the use of modern technologies. The priorities are particularly significant as the country works to develop its aviation infrastructure and improve its integration with the wider regional aviation network.
The upcoming 61st DGCA meeting will be held under the theme «"ដែនអាកាសឆ្លាតវៃ៖ បច្ចេកវិទ្យាដែលកំពុងរីកចម្រើន សម្រាប់អាកាសចរណ៍ ប្រកបដោយសុវត្ថិភាព សន្តិសុខ ចីរភាព និងប្រសិទ្ធភាព", "Smart Airspace: Emerging Technologies for Safe, Secure, Sustainable, and Efficient Aviation"». Discussions will focus on emerging trends, advanced technologies and innovative solutions designed to support aviation development across the Asia Pacific region.
For Cambodia, the meeting offers more than a forum for discussion. It provides an opportunity to understand how other aviation authorities are responding to technological change and evolving operational requirements, while identifying approaches that could support the modernization of Cambodia’s own aviation systems.
Regional cooperation remains a key priority
Cambodia’s participation also reflects the government’s commitment to strengthening regional aviation cooperation and advancing the implementation of standards and recommendations established by the International Civil Aviation Organization, or ICAO.
The 61st Conference of Directors General of Civil Aviation for the Asia and Pacific Regions is regarded as an important strategic platform for Cambodia. It will bring together aviation leaders and specialists from countries across the region to exchange views, share experience and discuss best practices.
Such cooperation matters for a country seeking stronger international air connectivity. Aviation is closely connected to tourism, trade, investment and business mobility, meaning improvements in safety, efficiency and connectivity can have implications well beyond airports and airlines.
The meeting is also expected to strengthen Cambodia’s relationships and partnerships with ICAO and the international aviation community. At the same time, it could create opportunities to expand air links, develop human resources and modernize Cambodia’s aviation systems.
Passenger traffic falls while air cargo grows sharply
The timing of Cambodia’s aviation priorities is notable because the sector has experienced mixed performance during the first half of 2026.
According to civil aviation authorities, Cambodia recorded more than 3.2 million air passengers entering and leaving the country during the first six months of 2026. That represented a 7% decline compared with the same period last year.
Air cargo, however, moved in the opposite direction. Air freight transportation increased by nearly 30%, with cargo volume approaching 500,000 tonnes.
The contrast between passenger and cargo activity highlights the different dynamics affecting Cambodia’s aviation market. While passenger traffic declined during the first half of the year, the substantial increase in cargo volumes points to continued demand for air freight and logistics services.
For businesses, the development of air cargo capacity can be particularly important. Reliable air freight connections can support time sensitive supply chains, international trade and companies that depend on rapid movement of higher value goods.
Cambodia’s aviation sector expanded strongly in 2025
The latest first half figures follow a period of substantial expansion in Cambodia’s aviation sector in 2025.
During 2025, Cambodia recorded 64,821 two way flight movements, representing an 11% increase compared with 2024. The country also received nearly 7 million two way air passengers, with total passenger traffic reaching 6,988,259, an increase of 12%.
Air cargo also recorded significant growth. Cambodia handled 93,889 tonnes of air freight in 2025, representing a 21% increase from 2024.
These figures demonstrate the scale of Cambodia’s aviation activity before the passenger decline recorded during the first half of 2026. They also underline why aviation safety, infrastructure, technology and human resource development remain important areas for the country.
For investors and businesses, aviation performance is closely linked to the broader operating environment. Greater connectivity can make destinations more accessible to tourists, business travelers and investors, while efficient cargo infrastructure can strengthen the movement of goods between Cambodia and international markets.
Technology could shape Cambodia’s next aviation phase
The focus on emerging technology at the upcoming regional meeting is especially relevant as aviation authorities worldwide seek to improve safety, security and operational efficiency.
Cambodia’s stated emphasis on digital transformation and modern technology suggests that modernization will remain an important part of its aviation development agenda. Participation in a regional forum focused specifically on smart airspace and emerging technologies gives Cambodian officials an opportunity to learn from developments elsewhere in the Asia Pacific region.
Technology alone, however, is only one part of aviation modernization. Effective implementation also depends on standards, infrastructure, skilled personnel, international cooperation and strong institutional capacity.
That is why the emphasis on capacity building and human resources is significant. Developing the people responsible for operating, regulating and managing aviation systems will be essential if Cambodia is to translate technological opportunities into practical improvements.
What stronger aviation could mean for business and tourism?
Cambodia’s aviation sector has an important role in supporting the country’s tourism and business economy. International air connectivity directly affects the ability of travelers to reach Cambodia, while efficient aviation networks can influence decisions made by companies, investors and international organizations.
The expansion of air cargo also creates a connection between aviation and trade. As cargo volumes grow, businesses may benefit from stronger logistics links and greater access to international markets, particularly where speed is an important consideration.
For tourism, aviation remains a critical gateway for international visitors. A safe, secure and efficient aviation system can strengthen Cambodia’s attractiveness as a destination for travelers while also supporting hotels, restaurants, tour operators, transportation companies and other businesses connected to the tourism ecosystem.
The government’s continued attention to aviation modernization therefore has implications beyond the aviation industry itself. Improvements in connectivity and operational efficiency can contribute to a wider business environment in which tourism, trade and investment interact.
Cambodia looks toward a more connected aviation future
Cambodia’s participation in the 61st DGCA meeting comes at a time when the country’s aviation sector is facing both opportunities and challenges. Passenger numbers declined during the first half of 2026, while air cargo recorded strong growth. At the same time, the sector’s 2025 performance showed significant increases in flights, passengers and freight compared with 2024.
Against this backdrop, Cambodia’s focus on safety, security, digital transformation, advanced technology and international cooperation could play an important role in shaping the next stage of aviation development.
The upcoming regional meeting in Kuala Lumpur provides Cambodia with a platform to exchange knowledge, strengthen partnerships and explore practical approaches to modernization. If those efforts translate into stronger systems, better connectivity, skilled human resources and greater efficiency, the benefits could extend across Cambodia’s tourism, trade and investment landscape.
Ultimately, a modern aviation sector is not only about moving people and goods. It is also about connecting Cambodia more effectively with regional and global opportunities.