An era ends at Phnom Penh’s old airport

Phnom Penh’s international airport will end its 66-year operating history on September 9, 2025. Originally called Pochentong International Airport, it was renamed Phnom Penh International Airport on January 15, 2003. Its earliest construction dates to 1924 during the French colonial period. The airport and its control tower were designed by French architect Pierre Dufau. The VIP terminal was designed and built by renowned Cambodian architect Vann Molyvann, completed in 1963 with a steel structure covered by canvas panels. Early construction (1924) The French colonial government built Pochentong International Airport, initially a small airfield used mainly for military purposes and document transport, as part of French Indochina’s aviation network. World War II and the Japanese occupation (1941–1945) During Japan’s occupation of Cambodia, the airport was expanded for military needs but was not completely rebuilt. Japanese forces used it for troop movements and logistical support. From the 1960s to the present During the Khmer Rouge period, the airport became Phnom Penh’s only usable airport facility. After the Khmer Rouge took power in 1975, the city’s road and water transport networks almost completely collapsed. Almost all international flights stopped, with only a few direct services from Beijing and Pyongyang remaining. These carried people to train the new government, diplomats and experts who returned voluntarily. The airport’s operations will transfer to the new Techo International Airport, a modern 4F airport capable of receiving passenger and cargo flights from around the world and aircraft of all types and sizes. The report presents this as a sign of Cambodia’s continued development and national strength under peace. Written by: Chenda Teyte