Cambodia Airport wins contract to operate Techo International Airport, Cambodia's flagship project

After two years of negotiations, Overseas Cambodian Investment Corporation (OCIC) via CAIC (Cambodia Airport Investment Co., Ltd) has officially signed an operating agreement with Cambodia Airports, a subsidiary of French giant VINCI, to operate the highly anticipated Techo International Airport (TIA).

Pung Kheav Se

This agreement, signed yesterday, July 10, 2025, by Pung Kheav Se, President of CAIC, and Nicolas Notebaert, President of VINCI Airports, marks not only an important milestone for the Cambodian capital, but also a bold statement of the country's ambitions on the regional and global stage.

The genesis of Techo International Airport

The story of Techo International Airport is above all one of ambition and determination to position Cambodia as a key player in the rapidly evolving economic and transport networks of Southeast Asia.

Designed to meet the rapid population growth in Phnom Penh and the exponential increase in air traffic, trends that have only accelerated since the post-pandemic recovery, the airport is the result of a strategic joint venture between OCIC and the Cambodian Secretariat of State for Civil Aviation (SSCA). OCIC, which is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year, is a testament to what can be achieved through sustained investment in infrastructure and urban development.

Over the past quarter-century, OCIC has transformed the face of Phnom Penh by building more than 10,000 homes, developing entire neighborhoods, and completing flagship projects such as bridges, shopping malls, and industrial zones. The development of TIA is the latest and perhaps most ambitious chapter in this story, underscoring OCIC and CAIC's shared commitment to building a Cambodia that is ready for the future.

“Our vision is to continue developing Techo International Airport over the coming decades to support Cambodia's economic growth and regional connectivity,” said Pung Kheav Se at the signing ceremony.

“By entrusting VINCI with the operation of key airport services, we are reaffirming our commitment to improving Cambodia's infrastructure with projects that meet international standards.”

After two years of negotiations, Overseas Cambodian Investment Corporation (OCIC) via CAIC (Cambodia Airport Investment Co., Ltd) has officially signed an operating agreement with Cambodia Airports.

VINCI: a proven partner for the future of aviation in Cambodia

The selection of VINCI - Cambodia Airports to operate Phnom Penh International Airport is a testament to the company's extensive experience and deep roots in Cambodia. Since 1995, VINCI has been at the helm of Phnom Penh International Airport, where it has helped support the country's aviation sector through periods of dramatic change and growth. Today, VINCI Airports has a portfolio of more than 70 airports in 13 countries and welcomed more than 300 million passengers in 2024, demonstrating its operational expertise and global reach.

“We are continuing our commitment to airport excellence and the development of Cambodia's aviation sector. Our appointment is recognition of our teams' expertise,” said Nicolas Notebaert.

VINCI's involvement in the TIA project is expected to bring a wealth of international best practices, innovative technologies and a constant focus on the passenger experience, all of which are increasingly important in a world where airports are no longer just transit points but gateways to economic opportunities and national identity.

Global expertise serving Cambodian identity

But the vision for TIA goes far beyond operational excellence. The airport's design and development have brought together a host of world-renowned partners. Foster + Partners, the renowned British architectural firm, and Changi Airports International, the Singaporean airport management giant, have lent their expertise to TIA to ensure that it is not only functional but also emblematic of Cambodia's unique cultural identity and aspirations.

The terminal itself, scheduled to open to passengers on September 9, 2025, promises to be a marvel of modern design: open, high-ceilinged spaces bathed in natural light, with seamless integration of cutting-edge technology and thoughtful amenities.

The passenger experience will be further enhanced by a selection of international and local shops and restaurants. Lagardère Travel Retail and Newrest, two leading French companies, have been appointed to operate the duty-free and catering services, ensuring that travelers can enjoy everything from international brands such as Starbucks to popular Cambodian brands such as Brown Coffee.

This delicate balance between international sophistication and local flavors is no accident. It reflects a deliberate strategy to position TIA as both a world-class transportation hub and a showcase for Cambodian culture, creativity, and hospitality.

Nicolas Notebaert

A catalyst for growth: economic and regional impacts

The importance of Phnom Penh International Airport extends far beyond its runways and terminals. As Cambodia's new international gateway, the airport is set to play a central role in economic growth, attracting foreign investment, and improving the country's connectivity with the rest of the world.

The figures speak for themselves. Cambodia's aviation sector has rebounded strongly after the disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, with steady growth in passenger traffic and the opening of new routes in Asia and beyond. With its state-of-the-art facilities and increased capacity, TIA is designed to meet not only current demand but also the needs of the next half-century.

For OCIC and CAIC, the airport is also a platform for broader ambitions. By integrating TIA into the urban and economic fabric of Phnom Penh, the companies hope to catalyze new waves of investment in real estate, tourism, logistics, and related industries. The benefits are expected to be felt across the country, creating jobs, supporting local businesses, and strengthening Cambodia's status as a rising star in the region.

A partnership based on trust and a shared vision

At the heart of TIA's history is a partnership based on mutual trust, a shared vision and a deep commitment to Cambodia's future. For OCIC, the airport is the culmination of decades of work to build the infrastructure that underpins national development. For VINCI, it is an opportunity to leverage its global expertise in a country where it has deep roots and long-standing relationships.

The involvement of the SSCA ensures that the project remains closely aligned with national priorities and regulatory standards, while the participation of international consultants and operators ensures that TIA will meet, and in many cases exceed, the expectations of today's international travelers.

As the countdown to TIA's inauguration continues, anticipation is growing, not only in Phnom Penh, but throughout Cambodia and the region. The airport is a symbol of what can be achieved when vision, expertise, and determination come together to achieve a common goal.

As Pung Kheav Se said, “Techo International Airport represents the next step in Cambodia's journey, underscoring our commitment to positioning the country as a regional hub for investment, travel and trade.”

With VINCI at the helm and a team of partners supporting all aspects of its development and operation, TIA is poised to take its place among the world's great airports, a gateway not only to Cambodia but also to the future.