Cambodia is advancing aviation safety, modernization, sustainability and regional connectivity following its participation in the 61st Conference of Directors General of Civil Aviation (DGCA/61) in Kuala Lumpur from September 7 to 11, 2026.
The conference, held under the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Asia Pacific framework, brought together civil aviation authorities, international organisations and industry stakeholders to discuss emerging technologies and the future of safe, secure and sustainable air transport.
Key Facts
| Key Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Conference | 61st Conference of Directors General of Civil Aviation (DGCA/61) |
| Location | Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia |
| Dates | September 7 to 11, 2026 |
| Cambodian delegation | Led by Minister Mao Havannall |
| Cambodian agency | State Secretariat of Civil Aviation (SSCA) |
| Framework | ICAO Asia Pacific |
| Conference theme | “Smart Skies: Emerging Technologies for Safe, Secure, Sustainable and Efficient Aviation” |
| Key priorities | Safety, airspace modernization, connectivity, sustainability and airport readiness |
| Cambodian airports highlighted | Techo International Airport, Siem Reap Angkor International Airport and Sihanoukville International Airport |
| Aircraft modernization | COMAC C909 from late 2026 and Boeing 737 MAX from 2029 |
| Long-term climate goal | ICAO net zero emissions by 2050 |
Cambodia Strengthens Aviation Safety Framework
Cambodia reaffirmed its alignment with the ICAO Asia Pacific Regional Aviation Safety Plan and continued implementation of its State Safety Programme.
According to the State Secretariat of Civil Aviation, the measures are intended to strengthen compliance with international aviation standards ahead of a Universal Safety Oversight Audit.
Safety oversight is becoming increasingly important as Cambodia modernizes its aviation infrastructure and expands its fleet and international air connectivity.
The country also linked its safety efforts with the modernization of the national airline fleet, including plans involving COMAC C909 aircraft from late 2026 and Boeing 737 MAX aircraft from 2029.
Airspace Modernization and Regional Connectivity
Cambodia also advanced cooperation with ASEAN partners on Air Traffic Flow Management, which is designed to improve the movement of aircraft through regional airspace.
The country confirmed its active participation in the Asia Pacific Regional Flight Procedure Programme, Phase 6.
The initiatives are intended to improve airspace efficiency and help reduce delays, supporting smoother regional air travel as passenger and flight activity expands.
Greater coordination with neighbouring aviation authorities is particularly relevant to Cambodia as it seeks to strengthen connections with regional and international markets.
Sustainable Aviation Moves Up the Agenda
Sustainability was another major area of discussion.
Cambodia backed a regional framework for Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) and reporting mechanisms under ICAO’s Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA).
The initiatives are intended to support the aviation sector’s growth while addressing emissions and aligning with ICAO’s long-term objective of achieving net-zero carbon emissions from international aviation by 2050.
For Cambodia, incorporating sustainability into aviation planning could become increasingly important as the country expands airport capacity and seeks stronger regional and intercontinental connections.
Three International Airports Positioned as Gateways
Cambodia also reaffirmed the readiness of three international airports to support the country’s aviation growth:
| Airport | Strategic Role Highlighted |
|---|---|
| Techo International Airport | Modern gateway serving Phnom Penh and surrounding areas |
| Siem Reap Angkor International Airport | Gateway supporting tourism and Siem Reap |
| Sihanoukville International Airport | Gateway supporting coastal tourism and regional connectivity |
Together, the airports provide Cambodia with expanded gateway capacity for tourism, business travel and international connectivity.
The SSCA said the country is moving beyond a primarily compliance-focused regulatory role toward becoming a technical partner contributing to regional aviation policy, safety, sustainability and airspace efficiency.
Aviation Modernization Supports Tourism and Trade
Cambodia’s aviation development has implications beyond the transport sector.
Improved air connectivity can support international tourism by making Cambodia more accessible to visitors, while efficient air transport also facilitates business travel and strengthens connections with regional economic centres.
Modern airport infrastructure, fleet renewal and improved airspace management can therefore contribute to the wider development of tourism, trade and investment.
The combination of airport capacity and regional aviation cooperation could also help Cambodia respond to changing travel patterns and increasing demand for direct international connections.
Cambodia’s 2050 Aviation Outlook
The outcomes of DGCA/61 provide a framework for Cambodia’s aviation priorities over the coming years.
The country is simultaneously addressing safety oversight, modern aircraft, airspace efficiency, sustainable aviation and airport readiness.
Cambodia said it would continue working with ICAO, member states and industry stakeholders to strengthen air connectivity and support sustainable socio-economic development toward its longer-term 2050 goals.
Angkor Times Analysis
Cambodia’s aviation strategy is increasingly moving across several interconnected areas rather than focusing solely on airport infrastructure. Safety oversight, fleet modernization, airspace management, sustainability and international connectivity all need to progress together for the aviation sector to expand effectively.
The readiness of Techo International Airport, Siem Reap Angkor International Airport and Sihanoukville International Airport also gives Cambodia a broader platform for tourism and business connectivity. The next stage will be implementation, particularly in meeting international safety requirements, integrating new aircraft and improving regional airspace efficiency while incorporating sustainability measures.
FAQs
What aviation conference did Cambodia attend?
Cambodia participated in the 61st Conference of Directors General of Civil Aviation (DGCA/61) in Kuala Lumpur from September 7 to 11, 2026.
Who led Cambodia’s delegation?
Minister Mao Havannall led the Cambodian delegation, according to the State Secretariat of Civil Aviation.
What was the theme of the conference?
The conference theme was “Smart Skies: Emerging Technologies for Safe, Secure, Sustainable and Efficient Aviation.”
What is Cambodia doing to strengthen aviation safety?
Cambodia reaffirmed alignment with the ICAO Asia Pacific Regional Aviation Safety Plan and continued implementation of its State Safety Programme ahead of a Universal Safety Oversight Audit.
What aircraft will support Cambodia’s fleet modernization?
The source says the modernization plans include COMAC C909 aircraft from late 2026 and Boeing 737 MAX aircraft from 2029.
What is Cambodia doing to improve airspace efficiency?
Cambodia is cooperating with ASEAN partners on Air Traffic Flow Management and participating in the Asia Pacific Regional Flight Procedure Programme, Phase 6.
Which Cambodian airports were highlighted?
The SSCA highlighted Techo International Airport, Siem Reap Angkor International Airport and Sihanoukville International Airport as modern gateways supporting regional and intercontinental connectivity.
What is Cambodia’s aviation sustainability direction?
Cambodia backed a regional framework for Sustainable Aviation Fuel and reporting mechanisms under ICAO’s CORSIA framework, supporting the broader goal of net-zero international aviation emissions by 2050.