Turkish Airlines Shakes Up Southeast Asia: New Flights to Phnom Penh Set to Change the Tourism Game!

Published on December 15, 2025

Turkish Airlines shakes up Southeast Asia with its new direct flights to Phnom Penh, set to change the tourism game! This exciting expansion in the airline’s global network offers travelers an easy, seamless connection between Istanbul and Cambodia’s vibrant capital. As the only European carrier offering direct flights to Phnom Penh, Turkish Airlines opens the door to a wealth of cultural and historical experiences in Cambodia, a country fast gaining attention in the Southeast Asian tourism scene. With this new route, Turkish Airlines is not only enhancing its connectivity but also boosting Cambodia’s growing hospitality and tourism sectors, ensuring that both leisure and business travelers can enjoy a smoother, more accessible journey to one of Southeast Asia’s most promising destinations.

Turkish Airlines Shakes Up Southeast Asia: New Flights to Phnom Penh Set to Change the Tourism Game!

In an exciting move for Southeast Asia’s tourism industry, Turkish Airlines has officially launched its new direct flights to Phnom Penh, Cambodia. This marks a significant milestone for the airline, which already operates the most extensive network in the world. With its rich cultural heritage and bustling tourism scene, Phnom Penh is ready to become the next hotspot for travelers from around the globe. The new route promises to shake up Cambodia’s tourism landscape, offering easy access to one of Southeast Asia’s most promising destinations.

Turkish Airlines’ Groundbreaking Move to Cambodia

Turkish Airlines has expanded its global reach with the launch of direct flights from Istanbul to Phnom Penh. This new route is part of the airline’s broader strategy to strengthen its presence in Southeast Asia. As the only European carrier offering direct flights to Phnom Penh, Turkish Airlines offers a unique connection for travelers flying from Europe, Africa, and the Middle East. The flights depart from Istanbul every Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday, with return flights from Phnom Penh to Istanbul operating on Mondays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.

The new service enhances Cambodia’s accessibility and promises to unlock new opportunities for both tourism and business. Turkish Airlines is proud to add Phnom Penh as its 132nd destination, making Cambodia the seventh country served by the airline in Southeast Asia. The route will be operated by the airline’s wide-body aircraft, ensuring a comfortable and seamless experience for passengers.

Phnom Penh Gets Its Global Debut: Why This Route Will Transform Southeast Asia’s Tourism Scene

The launch of direct flights to Phnom Penh is set to change the tourism landscape in Southeast Asia. Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s capital, is a city steeped in history, rich in culture, and home to some of the most iconic landmarks in the region. From the Royal Palace to the National Museum, the city offers an abundance of attractions that draw in visitors from all corners of the globe.

Before Turkish Airlines’ direct flights, many tourists traveling to Phnom Penh had to endure lengthy layovers and connecting flights. The introduction of a direct route from Istanbul dramatically reduces travel time, making the city more accessible to European and Middle Eastern tourists. This is expected to result in an increase in visitor numbers, which will be a major boost to Cambodia’s tourism industry.

With its long history and vibrant culture, Cambodia is already a popular destination for travelers, but the new direct flights will bring Phnom Penh into the spotlight as a must-visit destination. The convenience of a non-stop connection to Istanbul, a major European travel hub, will attract more international tourists looking to explore Southeast Asia in style.

How Turkish Airlines’ New Route Will Boost Cambodia’s Hospitality Industry

The new direct flights to Phnom Penh are not just a win for the tourism sector but also a significant opportunity for Cambodia’s hospitality industry. The country’s hotels, resorts, and guesthouses are set to see an influx of international visitors, increasing demand for accommodations. Phnom Penh’s hotels, particularly those in the luxury and mid-range categories, will benefit from the greater accessibility that Turkish Airlines’ flights provide.

As tourism grows, local businesses in the hospitality sector will also thrive. Hoteliers will need to focus on providing exceptional service to meet the expectations of the new influx of international travelers. This could lead to an increase in investments within the hospitality sector, with new hotels and services opening to meet the demand.

Additionally, the increased number of international visitors will likely lead to the growth of the country’s food and beverage industry, as tourists will explore Cambodia’s diverse culinary offerings. With its unique blend of French colonial influence and traditional Khmer cuisine, Cambodia’s food scene will likely gain international recognition as more tourists experience its rich flavors.

Tourism Growth: What It Means for Travelers

For tourists, the new flights to Phnom Penh open up a world of possibilities. The convenience of direct flights means less travel time and more time to explore the capital city and beyond. Phnom Penh’s unique blend of old-world charm and modern development makes it an ideal destination for travelers seeking both history and culture. The city is home to a wide range of activities, from visiting historical sites such as the Royal Palace and the Killing Fields to enjoying the vibrant nightlife along the Tonle Sap River.

Tourists can also easily access other parts of Cambodia, such as Siem Reap, which is just a short flight away, or the coastal regions like Sihanoukville, known for its beautiful beaches. The new Turkish Airlines route offers tourists the perfect gateway to explore Cambodia and the surrounding region.

Moreover, the new flight route is expected to increase the flow of business travelers, who will benefit from easier access to Phnom Penh’s growing economy. With Cambodia’s steady economic growth and strategic location in Southeast Asia, the country is becoming an increasingly important destination for business trips. For professionals looking to expand their networks in Asia, the direct flights to Phnom Penh offer a seamless and efficient travel option.

Flight Details: What Tourists Need to Know

The new Turkish Airlines flight to Phnom Penh departs from Istanbul Airport (IST) and arrives at Phnom Penh International Airport (PNH). Turkish Airlines will operate its flights with its Boeing 777-300ER aircraft, offering passengers a comfortable experience with a spacious cabin and high-quality services. The flights are scheduled three times a week: Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays, with return flights to Istanbul operating on Mondays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.

For tourists, Turkish Airlines offers a variety of in-flight services, including delicious meals, entertainment options, and free Wi-Fi for all passengers. The airline also offers convenient connections through Istanbul, allowing travelers to easily connect to other destinations in Europe, Africa, and the Middle East.

Passengers traveling to Phnom Penh on Turkish Airlines can expect a smooth and comfortable journey, with the airline’s renowned service quality setting it apart from other carriers. The airline’s extensive network makes it an ideal choice for travelers looking to explore Cambodia and beyond.

Travel Tips for Exploring Phnom Penh

1. Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Phnom Penh is during the cooler dry season, which lasts from November to February. The weather is more pleasant, and there are fewer chances of rain, making it ideal for sightseeing.
2. Visa Requirements: Cambodia offers an e-visa system for many nationalities, making it easy for tourists to apply online before arriving. However, travelers should check visa requirements based on their nationality before booking their flights.
3. Currency and Payments: The Cambodian Riel (KHR) is the official currency, but US dollars are widely accepted. Travelers should carry both currencies for convenience. Credit cards are also accepted in most hotels and larger establishments.
4. Top Attractions: Phnom Penh is home to several must-visit sites, including the Royal Palace, National Museum, Silver Pagoda, and Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum. The Russian Market (Tuol Tom Poung Market) is also a popular spot for shopping, offering everything from local crafts to souvenirs.
5. Getting Around: Tuk-tuks are a popular and affordable way to get around Phnom Penh. For tourists, hiring a private tuk-tuk or driver for a day can be a great way to explore the city’s top sights at your own pace.
6. Local Cuisine: Cambodian cuisine is diverse and flavorful. Don’t miss out on trying amok (a coconut milk-based curry dish), lok lak (stir-fried beef with rice), and fresh seafood dishes at local restaurants.
7. Cultural Etiquette: Cambodian culture is deeply rooted in respect, and it’s important to dress modestly when visiting religious sites. Always remove your shoes when entering temples or pagodas.

A New Era for Cambodian Tourism

Turkish Airlines’ direct flights to Phnom Penh are poised to be a game-changer for both the tourism and hospitality industries in Cambodia. By making Phnom Penh more accessible to international travelers, the airline is helping the city grow into a major tourism hub in Southeast Asia. For tourists, this new route opens up a world of opportunities to explore Cambodia’s rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes. Whether you’re visiting for business or leisure, Turkish Airlines offers a seamless and comfortable travel experience that makes exploring Phnom Penh and beyond easier than ever before.

Turkish Airlines shakes up Southeast Asia with its game-changing direct flights to Phnom Penh, making Cambodia the next must-visit hotspot! Find out how this move will revolutionize travel and unlock endless opportunities for tourists and the hospitality industry.

As Cambodia’s tourism industry continues to grow, Turkish Airlines will play a key role in driving both leisure and business travel to the country. With its expanding network and commitment to excellence, the airline is helping put Phnom Penh on the global travel map, offering more opportunities for travelers to experience all that this beautiful country has to offer.