Phnom Penh (FN), Dec. 29 – Direct flights between Xi’an and Phnom Penh have officially resumed, with Spring Airlines landing its first flight at Phnom Penh International Airport on Sunday (Dec. 29).

The welcoming ceremony was presided over by Mao Havannal, Minister in charge of the Secretariat of State for Civil Aviation, Huot Hak, Minister of Tourism, and Wang Wenbin, Chinese Ambassador to Cambodia.

Mao Havannal noted that the resumption of direct flights marks a strengthening of Cambodia-China relations and a significant boost to Chinese tourism in Cambodia. He highlighted the steady increase in air travel, stating that Cambodia is projected to see approximately 5.6 million air travellers in 2024, with numbers expected to surpass 7 million annually by 2025.

To meet the growing demand, Mao Havannal underlined the importance of preparing aviation infrastructure in line with civil aviation laws and the guidelines of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).

On the occasion, Chinese Ambassador Wang Wenbin expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration between the State Secretariat of Civil Aviation and the Ministry of Tourism, which has bolstered tourism ties and facilitated the resumption of flights. He stated, “I am delighted to collaborate with the State Secretariat of Civil Aviation and the Ministry of Tourism to welcome Chinese tourists, which has contributed to the increase in flights between Xi’an and Phnom Penh.”

“Tourism is a pillar of Cambodia’s economy and an essential bridge for fostering people-to-people connections,” the ambassador added.

It is worth noting that in 2019, Spring Airlines operated 62 flights weekly between Cambodia and China. As of 31 December 2024, the airline has resumed services, with flights scheduled three times a week—on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.
=FRESH NEWS