Phnom Penh International Airport

Phnom Penh International Airport (PNH) serves as the primary aerial gateway to the Kingdom of Cambodia, marking the starting point for most travellers exploring this fascinating country. Located just 10 kilometres from the capital's centre, the airport immediately immerses guests in the local atmosphere thanks to its unique architecture, which blends modern technology with traditional Khmer motifs. Despite its status as the capital's hub, the terminal is distinctively compact with a cosy ambience, making navigation simple and intuitive even for first-time visitors.

The airport building is recognisable from afar due to its characteristic red roofs with curved edges, reminiscent of palace structures. Inside, passengers are greeted with modern service: from spacious waiting lounges to numerous souvenir shops where one can purchase silk products and local delicacies. It is a place where Eastern hospitality meets international standards of comfort, ensuring a pleasant beginning or conclusion to your journey through Asia.

Features and Advantages of the Airport

One of the airport's main highlights is its architectural style. High ceilings and an abundance of natural light, combined with elements of traditional Khmer decor, create a sense of airiness and space. Unlike the gigantic hubs of neighbouring countries, Phnom Penh Airport allows you to clear passport control and retrieve luggage quite rapidly, which is particularly valuable after a long flight.

All necessary amenities are provided for a comfortable wait. Travellers can utilise the services of the Plaza Premium Lounge, which is accessible to passengers of any airline for a fee. The departure zone offers a fine selection of cafés and restaurants, including both familiar international chains and establishments serving local cuisine, where you can enjoy a cup of Cambodian coffee.

Transport accessibility is another advantage. You can reach the city not only by taxi but also on the famous local tuk-tuks, with a stand easily found right at the terminal exit. The airport also features an excellent selection of Duty Free shops, where, in addition to the standard assortment, unique handmade goods from local artisans are sold, including items from the Artisans d'Angkor brand.

• Official Airport Website: pnh.cambodia-airports.aero
• Information Desk Phone: +855 23 862 800 (general information line).
• Airport Address: National Highway No 4, Phnom Penh, Cambodia (the terminal is located at the city exit along the Russian Federation Boulevard).
• Email: For general enquiries, it is recommended to use the feedback form on the official website. Direct address for baggage tracing issues: pnhllxh@cambodia-airports.aero.
• Social Media: Current news and announcements are often published on the official Cambodia Airports Facebook page.
• Lost & Found Information: The service is located in the arrival hall. Contact numbers: +855 23 862 803 (landline) or +855 92 666 036 (mobile).
• Customer Service Contacts: Information counters are located in the public area of the arrival hall and in the departure check-in zone.

Transport accessibility to Phnom Penh Airport is a matter of concern for every tourist planning a trip to Cambodia. Although the terminal is only 10 km from the city centre (Riverside area or Independence Monument), travel time can vary from 30 minutes to one and a half hours. The reason lies in the dense capital traffic, so we recommend always leaving with ample time, especially during peak hours (from 07:00 to 09:00 and from 17:00 to 19:00).

Taxis and Mobile Apps

The most popular and comfortable way to get to the airport is by taxi. Ride-hailing apps are well-developed in Phnom Penh. This eliminates the need to haggle or explain the route to the driver using gestures.

• Apps (Grab, PassApp): This is the most transparent option. You see the trip cost in advance. A ride from the city centre in a comfortable car with air conditioning will cost approximately $10–12. Payment can be made in cash (in Riels or US Dollars) or via a linked card.
• Official Taxi: If you are travelling from a hotel, the reception desk can book a car for you. The cost will be fixed, usually around $12–15.

Tuk-tuks (Remorque)

For those wishing to immerse themselves in the local atmosphere and save money, a tuk-tuk is the ideal option. This motorised carriage is a symbol of Cambodian roads. A tuk-tuk can easily accommodate 2-3 people with medium-sized suitcases.

The cost of a tuk-tuk ride via apps (Grab/PassApp) will be just $5–7. If you hail a driver on the street, be sure to negotiate the price in advance, as the initial price for tourists may be inflated. Note that tuk-tuks do not have air conditioning, and you will be travelling in an open cabin, which can be hot at midday.

Public Transport (Bus)

For budget travellers, there is a city bus. Line 3 connects the city centre (including the stop at the Night Market) with the airport. The buses are equipped with air conditioning, making the journey quite comfortable.

The fare is symbolic — about 1500 Riels (less than $0.50). However, it is worth noting that the bus makes many stops and also gets stuck in general traffic jams, so this option is suitable only for those on a strict budget with plenty of time to spare.

Car Rental and Transfers

Renting a car without a driver in Phnom Penh is a task for the brave due to chaotic traffic and specific driving rules. Most tourists prefer to book a transfer in advance through their hotel or international booking services. This guarantees you will be met with a sign or picked up from your hotel right on time. International car rental counters are also present at the airport if you decide to drive yourself.

Parking

A car park is equipped in front of the terminal for those seeing passengers off or leaving their car for a period. It caters to both short-term and long-term parking. The parking zone is guarded, and tariffs start from small amounts for the first hour, increasing depending on the duration of the stay.

Nearest Alternative Airports

If you are planning a complex journey through Southeast Asia, it is useful to know about other aerial harbours located relatively close to Phnom Penh. Some are within the country, while others are in neighbouring Vietnam.

The structure of Phnom Penh International Airport (PNH) is notable for its logic and compactness, which is a significant advantage for tourists. Unlike huge Asian hubs, it is difficult to get lost here. The terminal complex effectively consists of one elongated building divided into two functional sectors serving different types of flights. Moving between them is done on foot and takes only a few minutes.

Terminals and their Functions

The airport is divided into two main terminals located in immediate proximity to each other:

• International Terminal: This is the main part of the airport, receiving the majority of flights from abroad (Bangkok, Ho Chi Minh City, Singapore, Seoul, etc.). It is located on the left side of the complex when viewed from the city side. The main infrastructure is concentrated here: Duty Free shops, business lounges, and most dining outlets.
• Domestic Terminal: Located to the right of the international sector. It serves flights within Cambodia, mainly routes to Siem Reap (for the temples of Angkor) and Sihanoukville (on the coast). The terminal is significantly smaller in size and has a simplified structure.

Layout of Departure and Arrival Zones

Navigation inside the building is intuitive, as passenger flows are clearly separated by floors and zones. Signs are duplicated in Khmer and English, and key signs often have a Chinese translation as well.

The Arrivals Zone is located on the Ground Floor. After disembarking, passengers enter a corridor leading to immigration control. An important feature for international flights is the Visa on Arrival counter, located before passport control. Here, tourists complete forms and pay the visa fee if the visa was not arranged online in advance. After crossing the border, passengers proceed directly to the baggage claim area and then to the general meeting hall.

The Departures Zone has a two-level structure:

• Ground Floor: Check-in counters are located here. Entry to the terminal is free, but luggage is screened at the entrance. Check-in counters are divided by airlines, and their numbers are displayed on large screens at the entrance.
• Upper Floor: After check-in and baggage drop, passengers take the escalator to the second level. There, they undergo customs inspection, passport control, and pre-flight security screening. It is on the upper floor that the "airside" area is located, featuring boarding gates, shops, and waiting lounges.

Procedure Times and Recommendations

Despite its compactness, Phnom Penh Airport can be busy during peak hours (morning and evening). Travellers should take the following timeframes into account:

• Check-in: For international flights, it is recommended to arrive 2.5–3 hours before departure, and for domestic flights — 1.5–2 hours prior. Check-in counters usually close 40–60 minutes before departure.
• Immigration Control on Departure: The procedure may take from 15 to 40 minutes depending on the number of simultaneous flights. Officers check for the exit stamp and scan fingerprints.
• Visa on Arrival: If you plan to obtain a visa upon arrival, allocate an additional 20–40 minutes for this. The speed depends on the length of the queue and whether you have completed forms and photos ready (although photos are often done on the spot by scanning the passport now, it is better to have a spare one).

For ease of navigation, it is recommended to download an offline map or take a screenshot of your flight confirmation in advance, as the free Wi-Fi in the airport sometimes requires re-authorisation, which can take time at an inconvenient moment. Overall, Phnom Penh Airport leaves an impression of a cosy and calm place where all processes are organised without unnecessary fuss.

The history of Cambodia's main aerial gateway mirrors the development of the country itself, having journeyed from the colonial era to modern economic growth. The airport, long known as Pochentong, was founded in the mid-20th century during the French protectorate period. Initially, it was a modest airfield serving few flights, but its strategic importance for the capital has always remained high.

The modern history of the airport began in 1995, when the Royal Government of Cambodia decided on a large-scale modernisation of transport infrastructure. A concession agreement was signed with a French-Malaysian consortium (known today as Cambodia Airports, a subsidiary of VINCI Airports). This event became a turning point: international investment and modern management technologies arrived at the airport.

A key stage of development was the early 2000s. As a result of extensive reconstruction, a new international terminal was built and officially opened its doors to passengers. It was then that the airport acquired its unique architectural appearance with elements of Khmer architecture, which so delights tourists today. Subsequently, reacting to the growing flow of tourists to the temples of Angkor and business activity in the capital, the airport underwent several more stages of expansion.

Another significant modernisation was completed in 2016–2017. Within the framework of this project, the areas of arrival and departure halls were significantly increased, check-in and baggage handling systems were updated, and the runway was improved to accommodate heavy long-haul liners. These improvements allowed the airport's capacity to increase to 5 million passengers per year, which became a true record for the capital's aviation hub.

Interesting Facts from History:

• Name Change: For a long time, the airport was known exclusively as "Pochentong", but was later officially renamed Phnom Penh International Airport to emphasise its capital status and simplify recognition on the international stage.
• Royal Status: A separate, historically significant VIP terminal (Royal Pavilion) exists on the airport grounds. It is intended exclusively for receiving the King of Cambodia, members of the Royal Family, and high-ranking heads of foreign states.
• A Look into the Future: The history of PNH continues, but the country plans to build a completely new giant airport outside the city limits (Techo Takhmao), which will take on the main load in the future, leaving the current airport with the role of an important historical and possibly domestic hub.

Despite its relatively small size, Phnom Penh Airport offers passengers a decent level of comfort and service consistent with international standards. The compactness of the terminal works in favour of travellers: all necessary services are within walking distance, and you will not have to cover huge distances in search of a café or an ATM.

Restaurants, Cafés and Shops

The airport's gastronomic zone is a pleasant combination of Western brands and Asian flair. Most establishments are concentrated in the "airside" zone (after passing passport control), but there are also places to grab a bite in the general hall.

• Dining: For those who prefer familiar food, international coffee chains and fast food outlets such as Starbucks, Burger King, Dairy Queen, and The Pizza Company are available. Lovers of Asian cuisine can visit Dim Sum Emperors (Chinese dumplings and snacks) or Yoshinoya (Japanese beef and rice dishes). There are also local coffee shops serving strong Khmer coffee with condensed milk.
• Shopping: The Duty Free zone (Dufry) offers the standard range: perfumes, cosmetics, beverages, and confectionery. Of particular note are boutiques with Cambodian souvenirs, specifically the Artisans d'Angkor shop, where high-quality items made of silk, stone, and wood are sold. For those who forgot to pack reading material or small electronics, the Monument Books store is open. There is also a U-Care pharmacy in the terminal.

Business Lounges and VIP Services

The main oasis of calm in the airport is the Plaza Premium Lounge. This waiting lounge is available to passengers of all service classes (for a fee or via loyalty programme cards such as Priority Pass).

The lounge offers guests:

• A buffet with hot dishes and beverages (including premium options).
• Comfortable armchairs and work zones.
• Shower cabins with towels and toiletries (ideal before a long flight).
• Massage services and SPA (for an additional fee).
• High-speed Wi-Fi and the latest press.

Connectivity and Power

The airport is equipped with free wireless internet. The network is usually named "Vinci Airports WiFi". Connection requires simple registration via a browser; the connection is generally stable and unlimited. For charging gadgets, special stations with power sockets and USB ports are provided, located at most boarding gates as well as in rest zones.

Finance: Banks and Currency Exchange

Currency exchange points and ATMs are located in both the arrivals and departures zones. An important feature: most ATMs in Cambodia (e.g., ABA Bank, Canadia, ANZ) dispense US Dollars, which act as the country's second unofficial currency. Exchange points accept major world currencies, but rates at the airport may be less favourable than in the city.

Services for Families and Passengers with Reduced Mobility

PNH infrastructure is adapted for various categories of passengers:

• Families with Children: Nursery rooms are equipped in the terminal where you can change or feed a baby in privacy. They are located next to the main restroom blocks.
• Passengers with Reduced Mobility: The building is equipped with ramps, lifts, and dedicated restrooms. The airport provides escort services and wheelchairs. It is recommended to request assistance through your airline at least 48 hours before departure so that staff can meet you at the entrance or at the aircraft steps.

Medical Assistance

In case of feeling unwell, passengers can visit the First Aid Post located in the departure hall. Qualified personnel are ready to provide first aid for injuries or sudden health deterioration.

Hotels and Rest

It is important to know that there is no hotel directly inside the transit zone (airside). If you have a long layover and want to get a proper sleep, you will have to pass passport control and exit into the city. However, thanks to the close proximity to the city, there are many hotels of various levels right across from the airport exit and within a radius of 1–2 km — from budget guesthouses to comfortable hotels offering transfers.

For Business Travellers

There are no specialised conference rooms available for general access in the terminal. For work and business negotiations, it is best to use the quiet zones of the Plaza Premium business lounge, where there are work desks and the ability to print documents or use a photocopier (upon request to the administrator).

The gastronomic scene at Phnom Penh International Airport (PNH) can pleasantly surprise even experienced travellers. Despite the terminal's compact size, it has managed to gather an excellent mix of international fast-food giants and authentic local brands. This allows passengers to choose between a familiar burger and a final tasting of Khmer delicacies before departure.

International Terminal: Departure Zone (Airside)

The main culinary life bustles in the "airside" zone of the International Terminal. After passing passport control, you enter a space organised like a gallery, where cafés and restaurants are conveniently located on the way to the gates.

• Brown Coffee and Bakery: The true pride of Cambodia and a mandatory stop for coffee lovers. The local chain offers magnificent coffee (we recommend trying the signature latte or iced Khmer coffee), as well as fresh pastries and hot breakfasts. This is the best place to take the aftertaste of the country with you.
• The Blue Pumpkin: A famous chain of bakeries and ice cream parlours originating from Siem Reap. The influence of French colonial heritage is felt here: excellent croissants, pies, and sandwiches. Their homemade ice cream with tropical flavours deserves special attention — an ideal dessert before boarding the plane.
• Dim Sum Emperors: If you have time for a full lunch, stop here for Cantonese cuisine. The menu features various dim sums (steamed dumplings), rich noodle soups, and Peking duck.
• The Pizza Company: A popular chain in Asia where you can order pizza (personal portions available), pasta, and hearty salads. A reliable choice for families with children.
• Yoshinoya: Japanese "fast food" classic. The main dish is Gyudon (rice with beef and onions). It is filling, quick, and relatively budget-friendly.
• Burger King and Dairy Queen: Familiar islands of American fast food for those who want a quick Whopper or signature soft-serve ice cream.

Public Zone (Landside)

If you have arrived at the airport early or are meeting friends, the selection in the general hall (before passport control) is more modest, but you won't go hungry. On the ground floor in the arrival and departure zones, you will find:

• Starbucks: A classic menu familiar to everyone. A convenient place with power sockets where you can work on a laptop or drink coffee while waiting for check-in to open.
• Small Cafés and Kiosks: Offering a basic set of snacks, packaged sandwiches, and soft drinks.

Domestic Terminal

The infrastructure of the Domestic terminal is much more ascetic. In the waiting lounge, there is only a small food point with coffee and pastries. Tip for tourists: if you are flying domestically (for example, to Siem Reap), we recommend eating a substantial meal in the city or in the general zone (Landside) of the International Terminal before you go through security control.

Dietary Features and Special Meals

• Vegetarians and Vegans: Asian establishments offer the best choice. At Dim Sum Emperors, you can find vegetable dim sums and tofu dishes, while The Blue Pumpkin always has fresh salads and vegetarian sandwiches.
• Halal: Cambodia is a friendly country for Muslim travellers. The chain The Pizza Company and some fast-food outlets often hold Halal certification; however, always look for the corresponding logo on the menu or enquire with staff at the counter.
• Gluten-Free: A separate menu is usually not available. A safe choice would be rice-based dishes (without soy sauce) at Yoshinoya or fruit platters and salads.

Prices and Opening Hours

Prices at Phnom Penh Airport are higher than in the city (the standard "tourist markup" is present) but remain accessible by international standards. US Dollars (the main currency for settlements), Cambodian Riels, and bank cards are accepted everywhere.

• Average bill (coffee + pastry): $6–9.
• Quick lunch (fast food): $8–12 for a combo.
• Full lunch in a restaurant: $15–20 per person.

Most establishments open early in the morning (around 05:00–05:30) and operate until the last flight departs (usually around midnight). There are no 24-hour restaurants in the terminal; only vending machines are available at night.

Phnom Penh International Airport (PNH) is considered one of the friendliest and most understandable in Southeast Asia, yet it has its own nuances, knowledge of which will make your journey much more comfortable. We have gathered practical advice to help you avoid unnecessary stress.

Time Planning and Arrival

The main enemy of punctuality in Phnom Penh is road traffic. A distance of 10 km can be covered in 30 minutes or one and a half hours. We strongly recommend leaving your hotel with a large margin of time. Optimal arrival time at the terminal:

• For international flights: 3 hours before departure. This is due not so much to the size of the airport as to queues at passport control and potential luggage checks at the entrance.
• For domestic flights: 1.5–2 hours before departure.

Check-in and Security Control

A double screening system operates in Cambodian airports. Your luggage may be scanned for the first time upon entering the terminal building (before check-in counters). Keep your passport and tickets handy while still outside.

• Electronic Forms: Cambodia is actively implementing the digital e-Arrival Card system. We recommend completing it online or via the app 7 days before arrival. This will save you from filling out paper forms on your lap and speed up border crossing.
• Power Banks: This is a critically important rule for Asia. External batteries can only be carried in hand luggage. If you check them in your luggage, the suitcase will be opened, the battery confiscated, and you may be detained for explanations. Ensure the capacity marking is visible on the device (usually allowed up to 100 Wh or 20,000–27,000 mAh).

Seat Selection on the Plane

When departing from Phnom Penh, planes often make a turn over the city or the Mekong River channel. To enjoy panoramic views of the river confluence and the golden roofs of the Royal Palace, try to choose a Window seat during check-in. If your flight is during the day, the views of green rice fields and river bends will be mesmerising.

Hand Luggage: What is Allowed and Prohibited

Besides standard international prohibitions (liquids up to 100 ml, no sharp objects), Cambodia has specific restrictions:

• Durian and Jackfruit: Due to their strong smell, these fruits are strictly prohibited from being brought onto the plane in both hand luggage and checked baggage.
• Souvenirs: Be careful with Buddha statues. The export of antiques is strictly prohibited without special permission from the Ministry of Culture. If you bought a modern copy that looks "antique", keep the receipt to prove it is a souvenir.

Tips for Transit Passengers

Phnom Penh Airport is not a major transfer hub. If you have a single ticket, luggage will be transferred automatically, and you will pass through the transit zone. If you are flying with different airlines (e.g., arrived with Emirates, and flying on with AirAsia), you will have to:

1. Pass passport control (visa required!).
2. Collect luggage.
3. Go up to the departure hall and check in again.

Allocate at least 3–4 hours for such a "self-transfer".

Customs and Money

There is a particular attitude towards currency in Cambodia. If you pay for a visa on arrival ($30) in cash:

• Banknotes must be in perfect condition. No tears, stamps, pen marks, or scuffs. Even with a microscopic tear, your dollars simply won't be accepted.
• Change at the airport is often given in local currency (Riels) at a less than favourable rate, so it is better to have small dollar denominations in advance.

How to Save Time and Money

• Water: Bring an empty bottle through security control. In the "airside" zone, there are drinking water fountains (usually near restrooms) where you can refill supplies for free. A bottle of water in an airport café can cost $3–5.
• Wi-Fi: Use the airport's free Wi-Fi to call a taxi via an app (Grab/PassApp) upon arrival. This will save you $3–5 compared to the official taxi counter.
• Food: Prices in the departure zone (Airside) are higher. If you want to save money, have a snack in the general zone (Landside) on the ground floor or bring snacks with you from the city.

In Case of Flight Delay

The airport building has a powerful air conditioning system. If a flight is delayed, a long wait in a t-shirt and shorts can become uncomfortable — be sure to take a hoodie or light jacket into the cabin with you. Charging sockets are available at most seats near the gates, but they do not always fit all plug types, so a universal adapter in your hand luggage will be useful.