With the inauguration of the maiden flight from New Delhi to Phnom Penh, Indians can now travel directly to Cambodia, marking a significant milestone in bilateral travel. This development is poised to bolster Indian tourist arrivals in Cambodia, which have been hindered by the high costs of connecting flights. Cambodian officials view this as a positive step forward, particularly given the strong diplomatic ties between the two nations.
Scheduled to commence operations on June 16, 2024, Angkor AIR, Cambodia's national flag carrier, will operate four weekly flights, heralding a new era of smooth air travel between the two countries. Kuong Koy, the Cambodian Ambassador to India, emphasised direct flights' economic and cultural benefits. "For Cambodians, who frequent India mainly for religious and medical purposes, the reasonable air tickets will make it possible for them to come here on more occasions."
Koy underscored India's significance as a top tourist destination for Cambodians, given its status as the birthplace of Lord Buddha. "With direct flights now available, more Cambodians can fulfil their dream of visiting India's Buddhist attractions. As for Indians, this new flight route unlocks the opportunity to see heritage places, such as the iconic Angkor Wat Temple, renowned for its grandeur and cultural legacy. "