Turkish Airlines Expands Southeast Asia Network with New Istanbul-Phnom Penh Route

Published on December 14, 2025

Turkish Airlines has taken another step in expanding its presence in Southeast Asia with the launch of its first-ever direct flights to Phnom Penh, Cambodia. Beginning in March 2026, the new service will connect Istanbul Airport (IST) directly with Phnom Penh International Airport (PNH), opening up a convenient new link between Europe and Cambodia and marking an important milestone in the airline’s Asia-Pacific growth plans.

With this addition, Cambodia becomes the seventh Southeast Asian country served by Turkish Airlines, while Phnom Penh joins the network as its 11th destination in the region. The new route highlights the airline’s ongoing commitment to strengthening tourism, trade, and cultural connections between Turkey and fast-growing Asian markets.

New Route Enhances Connectivity for Southeast Asia and Beyond

The Istanbul–Phnom Penh route will operate three times a week on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays for outbound flights from Istanbul, and on Mondays, Thursdays, and Saturdays for return flights from Phnom Penh. Turkish Airlines is the only European carrier offering direct flights to Phnom Penh, making it a unique gateway between Southeast Asia, Europe, Africa, and the Americas through its global hub in Istanbul.

With this new service, Turkish Airlines extends its Asia-Pacific network to 20 cities and 21 airports, providing passengers with enhanced connectivity to Europe, Africa, and beyond. The airline’s growth strategy focuses not only on expanding its global network but also on offering competitive services that benefit both leisure travelers and business passengers.

Competitive Fares and Limited-Time Promotions for Early Bookings

To celebrate the launch of the new route, Turkish Airlines has introduced special promotional fares for the Istanbul-Phnom Penh service. Starting at $699 for a one-way ticket from Istanbul to Phnom Penh, and $679 for the return trip from Cambodia to Istanbul, the airline aims to stimulate early demand for the route. These prices position the service competitively against other connecting options offered by Asian and Middle Eastern carriers, making it an attractive option for travelers looking for direct connections.

Bookings for these introductory fares are open until February 10, 2026, with travel valid through October 31, 2026. The new flights are expected to attract leisure tourists, business travelers, and government officials, all of whom will benefit from seamless connections to Europe and other regions via Istanbul.

Phnom Penh: A Vibrant Destination with Rich History and Culture

Phnom Penh, the capital city of Cambodia, is an increasingly popular destination for travelers seeking a blend of history, culture, and vibrant city life. The city, which has rapidly transformed in recent years, offers visitors a unique combination of traditional landmarks and a thriving, modern cultural scene. Cambodia’s rich heritage, including historic sites and temples, contrasts beautifully with a fast-growing food scene, contemporary art, and a youthful energy that makes Phnom Penh an exciting destination.

Phnom Penh’s history is deeply intertwined with the struggles and triumphs of the Khmer Rouge era, which shaped the city’s development after 1979. Today, the city’s landmarks, such as the Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda, National Museum of Cambodia, and the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, offer a glimpse into the country’s tumultuous past, while also celebrating its resilience and vibrant future.

Visitors to Phnom Penh can also experience the city’s lively street markets, local cafes, and bustling food scene, which features both traditional Cambodian dishes and international cuisine. The Mekong River adds to the city’s charm, providing a scenic backdrop to many of its landmarks and offering opportunities for river cruises and boat tours.

Boosting Cambodia’s Tourism and Economy

The launch of Turkish Airlines’ flights to Phnom Penh is expected to provide a significant boost to Cambodia’s tourism industry. With increased air connectivity to Europe and beyond, the country can expect a rise in inbound tourism, which will support local businesses, hotels, restaurants, and cultural attractions. Additionally, the improved access will facilitate business exchanges and trade relations between Turkey, Cambodia, and other countries in the region.

Tourism has become a key driver of Cambodia’s economic growth, and the introduction of a direct flight from Istanbul is expected to enhance the country’s position as a growing tourism hub in Southeast Asia. The government of Cambodia is actively working to improve infrastructure and promote the country as a destination for international travelers, and the new flights are an important part of that broader effort.

Looking Ahead: Expanding Southeast Asia Connectivity

The new Istanbul–Phnom Penh service is part of Turkish Airlines’ wider plan to strengthen its footprint across Southeast Asia. Known for its strong connectivity between Asia and Europe, the airline continues to build on this reputation by adding new destinations like Phnom Penh, making travel between these regions even more accessible. The move also reflects a broader effort to create closer links between fast-growing Asian markets and established regions such as Europe and Africa.

As the route settles in, Turkish Airlines intends to further grow its Southeast Asia network, responding to the rising demand for direct and hassle-free travel. With a focus on smooth connections and competitive fares, the airline aims to make it easier for travellers from around the world to discover Cambodia’s vibrant cities, rich heritage, and unique culture.