Sihanouk International Airport

Sihanouk International Airport (KOS) is not just a transport hub, but the main aerial gateway to the "Cambodian Riviera." It is from here that an exciting journey begins to the famous coastal beaches and tropical islands of the Gulf of Thailand, such as Koh Rong and Koh Rong Sanloem. Thanks to recent large-scale modernization, the airport combines modern service technologies with a cozy atmosphere, making arrival in the country as comfortable as possible for tourists.

Features and Advantages of the Airport:

Sihanouk Airport (also known as Kang Keng) has undergone significant changes in recent years, transforming from a small airfield into an important international hub. The main advantage for travellers is its location: it is situated in close proximity to the main resort zones, allowing you to reach the sea in less than an hour after landing.

Key advantages include:

• Modern Infrastructure: The recent extension of the runway to 3,300 metres allows the airport to accommodate large long-haul liners, opening up new routes for direct flights.
• Compactness and Speed: Thanks to thoughtful navigation and the small size of the terminal, passing through passport control and baggage claim takes minimal time, saving tourists from exhausting queues.
• Design and Comfort: The renovated terminal is designed in a modern style with elements of Khmer decor, offering passengers bright waiting halls, duty-free shops, and quality rest areas.

To obtain the most up-to-date information on flights, services, and regulations at Sihanoukville Airport (KOS), it is recommended to use official communication channels. Below are the main contact details.

• Official Website: All necessary information, including flight schedules and services, can be found on the website cambodia-airports.aero.
• Information Service Phone: For immediate communication and inquiries, you can call: +855 (0)12 333 524.
• Airport Address: National Road 4, Sihanoukville, Cambodia. The airport is located approximately 20 km east of the city centre.
• Email: For official inquiries, it is recommended to use the contact form on the airport's official website.
• Social Media: News and updates are published on the official Facebook page of the operator — "Cambodia Airports".
• Lost Luggage Information: In case of loss or damage to baggage, you should first contact your airline's representative at the airport. If the airline cannot assist, contact the airport's Lost & Found service via the general information phone number.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For all questions related to your stay and service at the airport, please contact the unified information service.

Getting to Sihanouk International Airport (KOS), located approximately 20-25 kilometres east of the centre of Sihanoukville, is quite simple. Depending on your budget and preferences, the trip usually takes from 30 to 45 minutes. The main methods are taxi, tuk-tuk, or pre-arranged transfer.

Taxi and App Booking. This is the most convenient and popular way to get to the airport. You can hail a taxi on the street or, more reliably and cost-effectively, book a car via mobile apps such as Grab. A trip via the app guarantees a fixed price, which is usually around $15-20. This eliminates the need to haggle and ensures comfortable conditions, especially if you have a lot of luggage.

Tuk-tuk (Remorque). For a more authentic and budget-friendly journey, you can hire a local tuk-tuk. This is a great option for one or two passengers with light luggage. The cost of a tuk-tuk ride will be lower than a taxi — within the range of $10-15. It is extremely important to agree on the price with the driver before the trip begins to avoid misunderstandings upon arrival. The ride may be less comfortable due to dust and wind, but it will allow you to better feel the atmosphere of Cambodia.

Hotel Transfer and Car Rental. Many hotels and guesthouses offer airport transfer services for their guests. It is worth checking this option at the reception. Although it may be slightly more expensive, it is very convenient as everything will be organised for you. For those who prefer complete freedom of movement, car rental services are available in the city. There is parking at the airport where you can leave the car temporarily or return it to a rental company representative.

Public Transport. There are currently no direct public transport routes, such as city buses, from the centre of Sihanoukville to the airport. There is also no railway or metro service in the city. Therefore, tourists should rely on taxis, tuk-tuks, or other private modes of transport.

Sihanouk International Airport (KOS) is a modern and compact aviation hub distinguished by a simple and clear structure. Travellers do not need to worry about complex navigation, as the airport operates one passenger terminal serving both domestic and international flights.

The terminal layout is extremely logical. All main zones — check-in, security, departures, and arrivals — are located on one level within a single building. This eliminates the need for long walks or shuttle use. Arrival and Departure zones are clearly separated, which helps prevent passenger flows from crossing. Check-in counters are located at the terminal entrance, followed by the customs and passport control zone leading to the departure lounge.

The departure lounge offers basic amenities, including small duty-free shops, cafes, and rest areas. The arrival zone consists of immigration control counters, baggage reclaim belts, and a customs point. Immediately after exiting the arrival zone, passengers enter the general hall, where they are met by representatives of hotels, taxis, and transfer companies.

Due to the small size of the airport, completing all pre-flight formalities usually does not take much time. On average, check-in and security checks take from 30 to 60 minutes. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 2 hours before an international flight and 1.5 hours before a domestic one to avoid rushing in case of simultaneous departures of several flights.

To navigate the terminal, simply follow the signs, which are duplicated in English. Airport staff are generally ready to help and direct you. The main advice for travellers is not to worry about getting lost. The entire infrastructure of Sihanouk Airport is arranged very compactly and intuitively.

The history of Sihanouk International Airport (KOS) is a reflection of the turbulent history of Cambodia itself. Originally known as Kang Keng Airport, it was built in the 1960s with the support of the Soviet Union. At that time, it was one of the symbols of the country's modernization and was intended to serve the developing port city and coastal region.

Unfortunately, due to decades of internal conflicts and instability starting in the 1970s, the airport was practically abandoned and ceased operations. For a long time, the runway and terminal fell into disrepair, and the air gates of the country's main resort fell silent. This was a difficult period when the infrastructure was barely used for its intended purpose.

The revival of the airport began in the new millennium when the government of Cambodia set a course for tourism development. After a massive reconstruction carried out by Cambodia Airports, the airport was grandly reopened in January 2007 under its modern name — Sihanoukville International Airport. This event became a turning point, opening direct access to the beaches and islands of the southern coast for international travellers.

Since then, the airport has been experiencing rapid development. In recent years, significant modernization works have been carried out: the runway was extended to 3,300 metres, allowing it to accommodate long-haul aircraft. In addition, a new passenger terminal was built and expanded to cope with the constantly growing flow of tourists. Today, KOS is one of the three international airports in the country and a key hub for those wishing to explore the coastal beauties of Cambodia.

Sihanoukville International Airport (KOS) is a compact yet modern airport offering passengers all necessary services for a comfortable wait for their flight. Despite its small size, the terminal is well-organised and ensures convenience for both arriving and departing travellers.

Dining and Shopping: The airport has several cafes and eateries where you can have a snack before your flight, drink coffee, or enjoy refreshing beverages. There are also shops where you can buy souvenirs, locally produced goods, and daily necessities. The assortment in Duty-Free shops includes a standard range of goods: perfumes, confectionery, and international brands.

Lounges and Connectivity: For all passengers within the terminal, free Wi-Fi is available, and zones with sockets for charging electronic devices are equipped. For those who prefer enhanced comfort, the VIP lounge (Plaza Premium Lounge) is available, where you can relax in silence, use additional services, and have a snack.

Financial Services: ATMs and currency exchange points are installed in the arrival and departure halls. Here you can exchange major world currencies for Cambodian Riels or US Dollars, which are widely circulated throughout Cambodia.

Additional Amenities:

• For passengers with children: The airport provides mother and child rooms for infant care.
• Medical Assistance: A medical centre operates within the terminal, providing first aid if necessary.
• For passengers with disabilities: The airport is equipped with ramps and special restrooms. Passengers can request a wheelchair and assistance during flight check-in.

Business Services and Hotels: There are no specialised conference rooms at the airport, but the VIP lounge offers conditions for working in a quiet environment. There are also no hotels directly on the airport premises, but many accommodation options are located in the city of Sihanoukville itself, which can be reached by taxi in 20-30 minutes.

Sihanoukville International Airport (KOS), despite its compact size, offers travellers several excellent options for dining. The main establishments are concentrated in the single terminal, so finding a place for a snack or a full meal will not be difficult. Both well-known international chains and outlets with drinks and snacks are represented here.

The main establishment for those looking for a comfortable lunch is located in the departure zone (airside), after passing passport control. Here you will find a cafe of the popular chain The Coffee Club. This is an ideal place to relax while waiting for your flight. The menu offers a wide selection: from hearty breakfasts and sandwiches to pasta, salads, and hot dishes. Here you can also try adapted Asian cuisine, as well as enjoy quality coffee and desserts.

If you are looking for a quick snack option or want to treat yourself to a dessert, pay attention to the Dairy Queen kiosk. It offers famous soft-serve ice cream, milkshakes, and hot dogs. This is a great choice if you are short on time or are seeing off friends and are in the general zone before security control. Additionally, there are small retail outlets in the terminal where you can buy drinks and packaged snacks.

Regarding practical aspects, prices at the airport are expectedly higher than in city cafes. Finding options for vegetarians is not difficult, especially at The Coffee Club, where the menu includes salads and meat-free dishes. However, finding certified Halal or gluten-free meals might be challenging — it is best to clarify the ingredients with the staff. Most establishments operate according to the flight schedule, opening with the first flights and closing after the departure of the last aircraft.

To ensure your journey through Sihanouk International Airport goes smoothly, make use of these tips. The airport serves the popular resort of Sihanoukville and acts as an important gateway to the coastal part of Cambodia. It is recommended to arrive at the airport 2-3 hours before international flights and 1.5-2 hours before domestic ones. This time is usually sufficient to complete all formalities without haste, even taking into account possible queues during the peak season.

Check-in and security procedures here are standard but generally proceed faster than in major hubs due to the smaller size of the airport. Have your passport, visas (if required), and boarding pass ready. To speed up screening, remove laptops, tablets, and liquid containers from your hand luggage in advance.

When choosing a seat on the plane, consider your preferences. Window seats will give you the opportunity to enjoy views of the Gulf of Thailand coast during takeoff or landing. Aisle seats provide more legroom and allow you to leave the cabin faster upon arrival. If you are travelling with children, it is better to choose seats in the front part of the cabin.

Hand luggage regulations comply with international standards. It is prohibited to carry liquids in containers larger than 100 ml, sharp objects, weapons, and flammable substances. All liquids must be packed in a transparent bag. Power banks and other batteries should only be carried in hand luggage. Be sure to check the exact weight and size allowances with your airline.

If you have a connecting flight, study the airport map in advance, even though it is small. Check with the airline whether you will need to collect and re-check your luggage. Leave a sufficient time margin between flights to avoid unpleasant surprises in case of a delay in the first leg of the journey.

Customs control upon entry to Cambodia requires filling out migration and customs declarations. Be honest when filling out documents and declare all goods subject to mandatory declaration, including large amounts of cash. This will help avoid fines and delays at the border.

To save time and money, check in for your flight online if your airline provides this option. Book a transfer from the airport in advance or be prepared to bargain with tuk-tuk drivers. Prices for food and drinks at the airport are higher than in the city, so it is better to have a snack before arriving. Keep some local currency (Riel) or small denomination Dollars with you for minor expenses.

In case of a flight delay or cancellation, first contact your airline representative for information on the flight status and your rights. Follow updates on information screens. Since the airport is small, opportunities for long waits are limited. It is recommended to have a book, a charged power bank, or downloaded films with you to pass the time.