(Phnom Penh): Cambodia welcomed the launch of its first-ever seasonal direct charter flight connecting Prague, Czech Republic, and Sihanoukville, marking a significant step in expanding the country's European tourism market. The service will be operated by TUI Airways.
The seasonal charter route is scheduled to operate from 19 December 2026 to 3 April 2027, with one weekly flight operated by a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner or a similar aircraft.
Sin Chansereyvutha, Secretary of State and Spokesperson for the State Secretariat of Civil Aviation (SSCA), said the new route reflects growing confidence among European travellers in Cambodia as a tourism destination.
He said the service is expected to attract more high-spending European visitors, support the development of Sihanouk International Airport, boost Cambodia's coastal tourism, strengthen international air connectivity, and enhance the country's tourism competitiveness.
"The launch of direct flights from Prague to Sihanoukville is a positive sign of increasing confidence from the European tourism market in Cambodia. The SSCA will continue working with international partners to strengthen air connectivity and support the growth of Cambodia's tourism industry and economy," he said.
The SSCA clarified that the route will operate as a seasonal charter service, with flights arranged by tour operators as part of package holidays rather than as scheduled commercial services. If demand remains strong, the route could eventually transition to regular scheduled flights.
The aviation authority said it is continuing discussions with international airlines and tourism partners to expand air services to Cambodia's three international airports. Any future routes will depend on market demand, commercial feasibility, tour package arrangements, airport readiness, and regulatory approvals.
According to the Czech Embassy in Phnom Penh, the new charter service is expected to bring hundreds of Czech tourists to Cambodia's coastal region each week. Two Czech travel agencies have already begun selling holiday packages featuring the direct Prague–Sihanoukville flights.
=FRESH NEWS
