Cambodia Enhances Aviation Safety and Efficiency Through International Cooperation

PHNOM PENH, Sept. 16, 2026 (KPT) — Cambodia has reaffirmed its commitment to aviation safety, modernization, sustainability, and regional connectivity following its participation in the 61st Conference of Directors General of Civil Aviation (DGCA/61) in Kuala Lumpur, officials said Wednesday. Sinn Chanserey Vutha, spokesperson for the State Secretariat of Civil Aviation (SSCA), said Minister Mao Havannall led the Cambodian delegation to the Sept. 7–11 meeting, convened under the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Asia‑Pacific framework. Hosted by Malaysia’s Civil Aviation Authority, the conference gathered civil aviation authorities, international organizations and industry stakeholders under the theme “Smart Skies: Emerging Technologies for Safe, Secure, Sustainable and Efficient Aviation.” Cambodia identified four areas of progress: regulatory compliance and safety, airspace modernization and regional connectivity, sustainable aviation integration, and international airport readiness. On safety, Cambodia reaffirmed alignment with the ICAO Asia‑Pacific Regional Aviation Safety Plan and strengthened implementation of its State Safety Programme ahead of a Universal Safety Oversight Audit. Officials said the measures will support compliance with international standards and the safe modernization of the national airline fleet, including COMAC C909 aircraft from late 2026 and Boeing 737 MAX aircraft from 2029. Cambodia also advanced cooperation with ASEAN partners on Air Traffic Flow Management and confirmed active participation in the Asia‑Pacific Regional Flight Procedure Programme, Phase 6, aimed at improving airspace efficiency and reducing delays. On sustainability, Cambodia backed a regional framework for Sustainable Aviation Fuel and reporting mechanisms under ICAO’s Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation. The initiatives are intended to align growth with ICAO’s long‑term goal of net‑zero emissions by 2050. Officials further reaffirmed the readiness of Techo International Airport, Siem Reap‑Angkor International Airport and Sihanoukville International Airport to provide modern gateway capacity and support expanded regional and intercontinental connectivity. According to the SSCA, the outcomes reflect Cambodia’s evolving role from a compliance‑focused regulator to a technical partner contributing to regional aviation policy, safety, sustainability and airspace efficiency. Cambodia pledged to continue working closely with ICAO, member states and industry stakeholders to strengthen air connectivity and contribute to sustainable socio‑economic development toward its 2050 goals.