India’s largest low-cost airline IndiGo launched on November 13, 2025 its first nonstop service to Cambodia. The airline started operating three weekly flights between Kolkata and Siem Reap aboard Airbus A320neo aircraft.
Cambodia’s Ministry of Tourism made an official announcement at the start of last week, crediting the route’s debut to the efforts of Prime Minister Hun Manet, Tourism Minister Huot Hak, and growing diplomatic momentum between Phnom Penh and New Delhi. Cambodia’s Prime Minister underlined that the new route is a reflection of “the close cooperation between the governments of the two countries.”
Sinn Chanserey Vutha, SSCA Secretary of State and spokesperson, said the route strengthens both nations’ aviation networks: “The service not only boosts international connectivity for Kolkata, but also provides easier access to Cambodia for travelers across India. We are confident it will stimulate tourism, deepen cultural exchange, and expand economic cooperation,” he told to media.
He added that the new link is expected to support Siem Reap’s heritage-driven economy and contribute to broader regional initiatives under the ASEAN–India Air Transport Agreement and China’s Belt and Road framework. It will help generate additional travel, trade, and investment flows.
IndiGo CEO Pieter Elbers said the carrier sees strong potential in the new service, noting Siem Reap’s global draw as the gateway to Angkor Wat. He also highlighted Cambodia’s visa-on-arrival and e-visa options, which simplify travel for Indian visitors.
India has become one of Cambodia’s fastest-rising source markets, with more than 75,000 Indian tourists visiting in 2024. Indian visitors are particularly interested with Angkor’s archaeological attractions while enjoying reasonable prices thanks to a fast-expanding hospitality sector.
Chhay Sivlin, president of the Cambodia Association of Travel Agents (CATA), told local newspaper Khmer Times that the new route fills an important market gap.
Until now, the only direct air link between the two countries was Cambodia Airways’ service connecting Phnom Penh and New Delhi. “With IndiGo’s new Siem Reap–Kolkata flights, we expect even greater tourist flows into Cambodia’s largest heritage destination via Siem Reap–Angkor International Airport,” she said.
