Cambodia Plans to Build One of the World's Largest Airports

Cambodia is set to embark on an ambitious project to construct one of the world’s largest airports in Kandal province, just south of Phnom Penh. The Cambodian government has approved the investment proposal for this significant infrastructure project, which is estimated to cost around US$1.5 billion.

Key Details:

• Location: The airport will be located in the Kandal Steung district, approximately 30 km from Phnom Penh.
• Size: Covering 2,600 hectares, this airport would become the ninth-largest in the world, slightly smaller than Chicago O'Hare (2,610 hectares) and larger than Beijing Capital International (2,330 hectares).
• Investment: The project is a joint venture between the Overseas Cambodia Investment Corporation (OCIC) and the Cambodian government’s State Secretariat of Civil Aviation (SSCA). OCIC plans to invest US$280 million, while foreign banks are expected to provide the remaining US$1.1 billion.

 

 

Current Status:

Despite the approvals, the project is still in the early stages. OCIC and government officials have yet to finalize the details, and discussions regarding the project have not yet taken place. SSCA spokesman Sin Chansereyvutha noted that multiple criteria need to be negotiated before the project can move forward.

Additionally, the government faces challenges with Cambodia Airports, which currently holds a concession to operate Phnom Penh International Airport until 2040. This company, majority-owned by France’s Vinci Group, has proposed expansions for both Phnom Penh and Siem Reap airports to accommodate growing traffic, although these plans have previously been halted in favor of new airport projects funded by Chinese banks.

 

 

Future Considerations:

The successful realization of this new airport will require careful planning and negotiation among various stakeholders, including the existing airport operators. As the Cambodian government seeks to enhance its aviation infrastructure, the upcoming airport could play a crucial role in boosting tourism and economic growth in the region.