Phnom Penh: The Royal Government of Cambodia has confirmed that Phnom Penh International Airport will remain a state-owned asset due to its historical significance and potential use for emergency landings. The announcement was made by Prime Minister Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet while presiding over a ceremony marking the 80th anniversary of the National Police of Cambodia, held this morning at the Police Academy of Cambodia in Kean Svay district, Kandal province.
According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, the Premier’s remarks came in response to recent social media speculation suggesting the airport would be sold to a private company following the transfer of its operations to the new Techo International Airport in July this year. The Prime Minister emphasized that the land of Phnom Penh International Airport has always belonged to the state and continues to do so, stating that Cambodia Airports only held the rights to operate the airport, while ownership remains with the government.
Samdech Thipadei also stressed that any development on the airport land must adhere to three key principles: preserving its historical value, serving the public interest, and ensuring it remains government property. According to the State Secretariat of Civil Aviation (SSCA), Phnom Penh International Airport, currently operated by Cambodia Airports, will officially cease operations at midnight on July 9, 2025, with all flights and services transitioning to the new Techo International Airport.
Techo International Airport is located approximately 20 kilometers south of Phnom Penh and spans parts of Kandal and Takeo provinces, covering an area of 2,600 hectares. Its first phase is designed to handle over 15 million passengers annually. The Cambodian government holds a 10 percent stake in the new airport through the SSCA, while the remaining 90 percent is owned by the local conglomerate Overseas Cambodian Investment Corporation (OCIC).