SINGAPORE, 21 April 2025: Viking floated out its newest ship, the 82-guest Viking Amun last week destined to sail Egypt’s Nile River starting this September.
The Viking Amun will join the company’s growing fleet of state-of-the-art ships for the Nile River sailing Viking’s popular 12-day Pharaohs & Pyramids itinerary.
The 82-guest Viking Amun floats out, marking a major construction milestone and the first time the ship has touched water.
“Egypt is one of the world’s most captivating destinations, and we look forward to introducing even more curious travellers to this extraordinary region in the coming years,” said Viking Chairman and CEO Torstein Hagen.
The traditional float-out ceremony of the Viking Amun took place at Massara shipyard in Cairo. It is significant because it marks the ship’s move into its final stage of construction. She will be moved to a nearby outfitting dock for final construction and interior build-out.
Hosting 82 guests in 41 staterooms, the new Viking Amun is inspired by Viking’s award-winning river and ocean ships, with the signature Scandinavian design for which Viking is known. An identical sister ship to the Viking Osiris, the Viking Aton, the Viking Sobek and the Viking Hathor, the Viking Amun features several aspects familiar to Viking guests, such as a distinctive square bow and an indoor/outdoor Aquavit Terrace. Other ships in Viking’s Egypt fleet include the Viking Ra and the MS Antares. In addition to the Viking Amun, Viking plans to welcome five new vessels in Egypt in the next two years, bringing the company’s fleet to 12 on the Nile River by 2027.
Pharaohs & Pyramids Itinerary
During the 12-day Pharaohs & Pyramids itinerary, guests begin with a three-night stay at a first-class hotel in Cairo, where they can visit iconic sites such as the Great Pyramids of Giza, the necropolis of Sakkara, the Mosque of Muhammad Ali, or the Grand Egyptian Museum.
Guests then fly to Luxor, where they visit the Temples of Luxor and Karnak before boarding a Viking river ship for an eight-day roundtrip cruise on the Nile River, featuring visits to the tomb of Nefertari in the Valley of the Queens and the tomb of Tutankhamen in the Valley of the Kings, and excursions to the Temple of Khnum in Esna, the Dendera Temple complex in Qena, the temples at Abu Simbel and the High Dam in Aswan, and a visit to a colourful Nubian village, where guests can experience a traditional elementary school. Finally, the journey concludes with a flight back to Cairo for a final night in the ancient city.
KUALA LUMPUR, 21 April 2025: The 56th edition of the Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA) National MATTA Fair held at the Malaysia International Travel and Exhibition Centre (MITEC) in Kuala Lumpur broke all previous records with 1,754 exhibitor booths.
Credited with being Malaysia’s largest and most influential travel show, the MATTA Fair focused on domestic, inbound, and international travel growth and sports tourism under the banner of MATTA’s commitment to a more sustainable future.
Photo credit: MATTA. The opening ceremony was graced by the Menteri Besar Kedah, YAB Dato Seri Haji Muhammad Sanusi, who emphasised the beauty of Kedah and the state’s rising status as a tourism destination. (Right) MATTA President Nigel Wong.
Running from 18 to 20 April 2025, the MATTA Fair featured a new record of 1,754 booths spread across eight halls on three levels at MITEC, surpassing the 1,590 booths recorded in the 55th edition in September 2024. The MATTA Fair is recognised as the country’s largest International Travel Fair, with the April edition drawing over 210,000 visitors and generating a projected MYR270 million in sales, outperforming the previous fair of 190,000 visitors and MYR250 million in sales.
The opening ceremony was graced by the Menteri Besar Kedah, YAB Dato Seri Haji Muhammad Sanusi, who emphasised the beauty of Kedah and the state’s rising stance as a tourism destination.
“Kedah is experiencing increasing interest as a tourism destination, highlighted by distinct attractions such as Langkawi, Ulu Muda, and the historical Lembah Bujang, attracting both domestic and international visitors. By promoting agro-tourism and heritage-driven experiences, Kedah aims to establish itself as a diverse tourism destination. The state government is dedicated to expanding strategic partnerships with related tourism stakeholders to enhance tourism offerings and boost economic impact,” he said.
He also officiated at the launch of the new logo design for Naturally Langkawi, which features a refreshed identity and an enhanced brand narrative focusing on three main pillars — “Nature, Culture, and Experience for this jewel island of Kedah”. The Naturally Langkawi brand narrative is inspired by the story of a land formed over 550 million years ago, highlighting the unique geology of Langkawi and its recognition as a UNESCO Global Geopark. Also present at the event was the Chief Executive Officer of the Langkawi Development Authority (LADA), YBhg Dato Haslina binti Abdul Hamid.
“Today, we’re excited to share something new. A fresh step forward for Langkawi as a world-class destination. A Bold New Chapter. We’re introducing the refreshed look and feel of our beloved brand – Naturally Langkawi – now with a design that feels bolder, more vibrant, and more welcoming but still proudly Langkawi at heart. The Naturally Langkawi brand narrative is built into the story of land 550 million years in the making, considering Langkawi’s unique geological make-up and the fact that it is recognised as a UNESCO Global Geopark,” YAB Dato’ Seri added.
MATTA president Nigel Wong expressed the association’s commitment in promoting domestic and inbound travel. “Our goal, as an association and a strategic partner for Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026), is to promote domestic and inbound tourism. We aim to bring Malaysia, along with its many unique attractions, to the global stage. MATTA firmly believes that tourism is a fundamental pillar for Malaysia’s economic growth and the empowerment of local communities.”
In line with its transition to sustainability, the association launched the MATTA Eco-Sustainable Tourism Initiative (MESTI). Developed as a structured pathway to a cleaner, kinder, and more conscious way of exploring Malaysia, MESTI is grounded by three core pillars — wildlife conservation, marine conservation, and cultural and historic preservation — this initiative empowers the travel industry and travellers alike to protect what makes Malaysia truly unique. MESTI will be implemented throughout all MATTA-led programs and events, starting with this fair.
As a Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) member, MATTA is aligning its efforts with internationally recognised sustainability standards. Through MESTI, MATTA will roll out dedicated awareness, training, and capacity-building programmes for its members, enabling them to embrace and implement responsible tourism practices across their businesses.
“We have a duty, as an association, to lead by example and encourage our members to adopt sustainable practices. Through this membership, we are taking active steps to align with global standards and provide our members with the tools and knowledge to implement real, measurable change. MESTI represents our shared responsibility to protect Malaysia’s natural and cultural treasures — not just for tourism, but for future generations,” Wong added.
As part of MATTA’s mission to promote sports tourism further, this MATTA Fair featured two dedicated pickleball courts at Level 1, Hall 4.
“Pickleball is a fast-growing sport that resonates across multiple age groups globally, uniting people from all walks of life. MATTA recognises this opportunity to promote and spotlight Malaysia as a sports tourism destination, and create inclusive travel and holiday experiences,” said Wong.
“These strategic initiatives reflect MATTA’s strong efforts to grow Malaysia’s tourism industry in a more sustainable, innovative, and inclusive manner, anchored by incorporating evolving travel trends, future-forward solutions, and global sustainability objectives.”
MATTA Fair, 18-20 April 2025, sponsors
1. Experience Kedah – Malaysia’s Favourite Destination 2. Macao – International Favourite Destination 3. RHB Bank – Exclusive Platinum Sponsor 4. Malaysia Aviation Group – Official Airline Partner & Premier Sponsor 5. High Commission of India – Sponsor 6. AmLeisure Media – Media Partner 7. Visit Malaysia 2026 – Strategic Partner
SINGAPORE, 21 April 2025: EL AL Israel Airlines has appointed APG as its General Sales Agent (GSA) in Japan, responsible for promoting and selling EL AL’s flights and services throughout Japan.
The strategic partnership aims to enhance EL AL’s presence in the region, offering Japanese travellers increased access to EL AL’s extensive network and services.
Photo credit: APG.
“We are delighted to be chosen by EL AL Israel Airlines as their GSA in Japan,” said APG Inc President & CEO Sandrine de Saint Sauveur.
“This partnership is a testament to our expertise and dedication in the aviation industry. We look forward to leveraging our local market knowledge and global reach to support EL AL’s growth in Japan.”
“We warmly welcome the partnership between EL AL and APG in Japan” said: EL AL Global GSA Director, Liat Yahav. “EL AL operates three weekly direct flights throughout the year. The frequencies have increased due to high demand. We look forward to successful cooperation and growth in the local market.
About El Al EL AL was founded in 1948 as Israel’s national carrier and operated its first scheduled flight in 1949. Today, EL AL, along with San D’or, a subsidiary of EL AL Israel Airlines, serves more than 50 international destinations in more than 30 countries.
EL AL currently flies an all-Boeing fleet of 47 aircraft and has entered into agreements to lease and purchase up to 12 more Boeing 787 aircraft and up to 31 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft.
About APG With over 30 years of experience in airline distribution and over 100 offices globally, APG partners with over 200 airline clients.
ABU DHABI, 21 April 2025: Etihad Airways is expanding its global network by launching flights to Peshawar, Pakistan, effective 29 September 2025.
The new route will connect Zayed International Airport, Abu Dhabi (AUH), with Bacha Khan International Airport (PEW) in Peshawar, offering seamless connections to Etihad’s growing list of destinations on its route map.
Photo credit: Etihad.
Peshawar, a city rich in history and culture, is an important hub for domestic and international travel. It joins Karachi, Islamabad and Lahore as Etihad’s fourth nonstop route to Pakistan.
Etihad will operate the route using its Airbus A320 aircraft, which features eight seats in business class and 150 in economy. Initially operating five weekly flights, frequencies will increase to daily beginning on 22 November 2025.
Etihad Airways Chief Executive Officer Antonoaldo Neves said: “We are thrilled to further expand our presence in Pakistan by launching our daily service between Abu Dhabi and Peshawar. This new route reflects our commitment to providing vital connectivity for travellers between Pakistan and the Gulf, Africa, Europe, and North America. In addition to new flights to Peshawar, we are boosting our frequency to Karachi to 17 flights a week from 1 October.”
This expansion follows the recent addition of Addis Ababa to Etihad’s network and marks the airline’s sixteenth new destination in 2025. Alongside Peshawar, Etihad has announced new routes to Prague, Warsaw, Algiers, Tunis, and Atlanta, while also increasing frequencies to key European cities, including Paris, Milan, Manchester, Frankfurt, Zurich, and Madrid.
SINGAPORE, 21 April 2025: Air France will introduce flights between Paris and Phuket during the 2025-2026 winter season starting November 2025.
It follows the launch of direct flights between Paris and Manila in the Philippines, which was introduced in the winter schedule for 2024/2025.
Photo credit: Air France. Phuket’s white sand and clear seas.
Effective 27 November 2025, the airline will offer three flights weekly on Monday, Thursday and Saturday between Paris-Charles de Gaulle and Phuket in southern Thailand. A Boeing 777-300ER aircraft will serve the route with 363 seats configured with first class, business class, premium economy and economy cabin.
Flight schedule
AF156 departs from Paris-Charles de Gaulle (CDG) at 1550 and arrives in Phuket (HKT) at 0925 plus a day. AF157 departs from Phuket (HKT) at 1150 and arrives in Paris-Charles de Gaulle (CDG) at 1910.
With this new route, Air France continues to meet the growing demand for travel to Asia. By winter 2025-2026, Air France will serve 11 destinations in Asia: Bangkok, Ho Chi Minh City, Hong Kong, Manila, Osaka, Beijing, Seoul, Shanghai, Singapore, Tokyo-Haneda, and Phuket.
Thailand’s largest island, Phuket, is famed for its beaches, lush landscapes, and a blend of traditional and modern culture. It is the perfect base for exploring neighbouring islands and the mainland on the Andaman Sea coast.
Phuket’s beach attractions
Patong Beach: The most famous and busiest beach, known for its vibrant nightlife, water sports, and bustling atmosphere.
Kata Beach: A beautiful stretch of soft sand with clear waters, popular for families and surfing during the low season.
Karon Beach: The second-longest beach in Phuket, offering a more relaxed atmosphere than Patong, with ample space for strolling and water activities.
Surin Beach: Known for its clear waters and upscale resorts, it is a great spot for relaxation and enjoying the sunset.
Mai Khao Beach: The longest beach in Phuket, located near the airport, offering a tranquil escape and unique “plane spotting” opportunities.
Nai Harn Beach: A popular beach in the south of the island, known for its natural beauty and a more laid-back vibe than the west coast beaches.
Phuket Old Town
It is historically rich and showcases Sino-Portuguese architecture, reflecting the island’s tin-mining past and cultural fusion.
Colourful Shophouses: Well-preserved buildings lining the streets, now housing cafes, restaurants, galleries, and shops.
Thalang Road: A main street with a vibrant atmosphere, offering local crafts, ice cream parlors, and often hosting the Sunday Walking Street Market.
Soi Romanee: A charming lane known for its beautifully restored buildings and cafes.
Phuket Thai Hua Museum: Exhibits detailing the history and culture of Chinese immigrants in Phuket.
Jui Tui Shrine: A colourful and significant Chinese temple.
Big Buddha: A prominent landmark and one of the most revered sites on the island situated on Nakkerd Hill. The viewpoint offers panoramic 360-degree views of southern Phuket, including Chalong Bay, Kata, and Karon.
KOTA KINABALU, 18 APRIL 2025: The Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA) Sabah Chapter will host the MATTA Fair Sabah 2025, from 9 to 11 May 2025 at the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC).
The three-day travel fair will bring together irresistible travel, tour, flight, and hospitality deals — all under one roof and at unbeatable prices.
From left, Mohd Azlan Saleh Bin Abd Salam, Sabah Chapter Chairman. Rocky Kho, Honorary Treasurer of MATTA and Organising Chairman of MATTA Fair Sabah 2025. Phua Tai Neng, Honorary Secretary General of MATTA.
Sabah, part of Borneo Island, is vital to Malaysia’s tourism growth. The beautiful state, known for its natural beauty, including Mount Kinabalu, is also home to centuries-old customs and a place where heritage lives and breathes. These qualities have long made Sabah a favourite destination among local and international travellers.
MATTA Fair Sabah 2025 aims to elevate Sabah’s tourism appeal with travel agents, airlines, and hospitality providers offering exclusive travel packages. This year’s fair will showcase a record-breaking 130 booths, a major leap from the 78 booths featured in 2024.
RHB has joined the fair as the Official Bank Partner, further enhancing visitors’ experience with exclusive on-ground promotions, financial solutions, and rewards that add even more value to travel purchases.
With a proven track record of consistent growth, MATTA Fair Sabah recorded a significant MYR21 million in sales last year alone — a clear indication of strong demand for travel and growing consumer confidence in the tourism sector.
This strong momentum reflects the public’s excitement to travel and the tourism industry’s resilience,” said Rocky Kho, Organising Chairman of MATTA Fair Sabah 2025. “MATTA remains committed to driving domestic and inbound tourism, recognising their importance as key pillars of Malaysia’s economic growth. With Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) on the horizon and MATTA as the strategic partner, our goal is to empower both consumers and our tour and travel members to enhance Sabah’s beauty and enforce exposure and opportunities needed to succeed in the global tourism landscape.”
Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG), the Official Airline Partner for MATTA Fair Sabah 2025, offers attractive travel packages and exclusive destinations, further sweetening the deals available.
In addition to the travel deals, visitors can participate in the MATTA Fair Buyers’ Contest, a flagship crowd favourite where shoppers can win exciting prizes — including attractive travel packages from MAG — simply by spending a minimum of RM100 at the fair.
For more information and the latest updates on the upcoming MATTA Fair Sabah, visit www.mattafair.org.my.
SINGAPORE, 18 April 2025: The Singapore Tourism Board (STB) inked seven MOUs and a collaboration agreement on the sidelines of its recent annual Tourism Industry Conference (TIC).
“The strategic partnerships forged with local businesses and global stakeholders will strengthen Singapore’s position as a leading destination through enhanced marketing reach, deeper consumer insights, and co-created innovative experiences,” STB said in its press release.
CapitaLand Investment (CapitaLand) and STB have renewed their partnership through a three-year collaboration agreement.
The collaborations leverage each party’s strengths and underscore STB’s commitment to working hand-in-hand with industry partners to drive sustainable tourism growth and shape Singapore’s diverse leisure and trade offerings on the global stage.
CapitaLand Investment STB Partnership
CapitaLand Investment (CapitaLand) and STB have renewed their partnership through a three-year collaboration agreement. This renewed collaboration will run from June 2025 to May 2028, focusing on attracting new international brands and rejuvenating CapitaLand’s existing concepts and attractions.
Dempsey Precinct Partnership
Dempsey representatives, HSBC Bank (Singapore) Limited, and STB have jointly formed the Dempsey Precinct Partnership to promote the historic lifestyle precinct. The inaugural partnership seeks to drive awareness of the precinct’s offerings and encourage greater exploration of the Dempsey area.
HSBC cardholders enjoy exclusive deals at over 30 establishments throughout the Dempsey precinct, encompassing dining, retail and lifestyle experiences. The partners will continue to collaborate in curating and promoting these deals.
Fever Labs Inc
Fever Labs Inc and STB have signed a three-year MOU to strengthen Singapore’s position as Asia’s leading attractions and entertainment hub.
The partnership aims to boost international visitor arrivals and tourism spending while elevating Singapore’s appeal as a destination. The collaboration will focus on securing signature events and providing joint marketing support.
Klook
Klook, an online travel booking platform, and STB have broadened their partnership to drive inbound tourism to Singapore with a new three-year MOU. Under the agreement, STB and Klook will focus on four key areas to support STB’s 2040 ambitions.
Pop Mart International
Pop Mart International, the renowned Chinese toy company, and STB have inked a three-year partnership. This first-of-its-kind collaboration between Pop Mart and a tourism destination will bring exclusive products and experiences to Singapore.
The partnership will see Singapore as the exclusive host for the only POP TOY SHOW outside of China in 2025 and 2026 – the largest toy exhibition in Asia featuring pop culture-toys, collectibles and merchandise.
Pop Mart International and Mandai Wildlife Group
Mandai Wildlife Group and STB are joining forces with Pop Mart International (Pop Mart) to create an enchanting experience featuring their globally popular IPs, such as LABUBU, part of THE MONSTERS. This collaboration brings wildlife education and pop culture together through the immersive takeover of selected wildlife parks, targeted to launch in Q1 2026.
Singapore Business Federation
Singapore Business Federation (SBF) and STB have signed a two-year MOU to strengthen the local MICE ecosystem and pursue new opportunities by expanding the pool of local hosts for association conferences.
This partnership aims to enhance the capabilities of local trade associations, facilitate networking between local and international members to drive business opportunities and empower local associations to bid for and host world-class business events in Singapore.
Wiggle Wiggle (BMSMILE) – Singapore Flyer
Singapore Flyer and STB are partnering with South Korean lifestyle brand Wiggle Wiggle to transform one of Singapore’s most iconic landmarks starting from Q2 2025. The four-month marketing partnership, Wiggle Wiggle’s first in Southeast Asia, features five themed capsules and giant inflatables at the Singapore Flyer.
SINGAPORE, 18 April 2025: Korean Air reported strong demand in both passenger and cargo sectors during the first quarter of 2025, but operating profit at KRW350.9 billion (USD239.3 million) declined by 19%.
Korean Air recorded revenue of KRW3.9559 trillion (USD2.6975 billion) for the first quarter of 2025, a 3% increase year over year.
Photo credit: Korean Air.
The quarter’s dip in operating profit was blamed primarily on higher operating costs related to the depreciation and maintenance of newly introduced aircraft and increased operating unit costs resulting from currency fluctuations.
A key factor contributing to the rise in operating costs was the addition of new aircraft, with deliveries previously postponed due to the pandemic. These aircraft are part of Korean Air’s broader strategy to boost capacity and elevate service quality over the mid to long term. By deploying its latest aircraft, the airline aims to grow its global network, enhance the passenger experience, and strengthen overall profitability.
The passenger business generated KRW2.4355 trillion in revenue during the first quarter, marking a 4% increase year-on-year. Despite heightened competition from increased market capacity and various domestic and international uncertainties, strong travel demand during the Lunar New Year and March holiday period supported revenue and traffic growth.
The airline expects continued growth in the passenger business in the second quarter, fueled by strong travel demand during the early May holidays. Strong performance is anticipated on outbound routes from Korea to Southeast Asia, China and Japan.
BANGKOK, 18 April 2025: Bangkok Airways forecasts it will carry 4.7 million passengers in 2025, with popular routes to Samui Island a critical factor driving its operating profit.
During its fiscal year ending 31 December 2024, Bangkok Airways achieved revenue of THB26.04 billion and expenses of THB20.64 billion, resulting in a net profit of THB 3.8 billion. The airline’s operating profit reached THB 5.45 billion, with an EBITDA margin of 28% and a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.53.
Bangkok Airways’ President Puttipong Prasarttong-Osoth reports on the airline’s strategic direction for 2025.
Bangkok Airways projects 48,077 flights, an average passenger load factor of 82%, and an average ticket price of THB 4,200 per seat for 2025.
The Samui route remains the most popular, with advance bookings for March–September 2025 increasing by 14%. To meet rising demand, the airline plans to resume the Samui-Kuala Lumpur route with one daily flight in Q4, catering to European travellers connecting via Kuala Lumpur International Airport.
Currently, Bangkok Airways operates flights to 19 destinations, including 11 domestic routes: Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang), Samui, Chiang Mai, Phuket, Krabi, Trat, Lampang, Mae Hong Son, Sukhothai, Hat Yai, and U-Tapao, and eight international routes: Maldives, Singapore and Siem Reap, Phnom Penh, Luang Prabang, Hong Kong, Chengdu, and Chongqing.
In a recent performance review, the airline said it will continue expanding its partnerships. It now boasts 30 codeshare partners and over 70 interline agreements worldwide.
Bangkok Airways is optimising fleet management and expects to operate 25 aircraft in 2025. The airline also plans a fleet modernisation programme, replacing ATR72-600 aircraft with 12 new aircraft to be delivered between 2026 and 2028.
Regarding airport operations, the company will renovate Samui Airport’s passenger terminal, with construction commencing in Q4 2025. Additionally, Trat Airport is undergoing a runway expansion to accommodate jet aircraft.
Bangkok Airways will host the 69th AAPA Assembly of Presidents 2025 from 14 to 15 November 2025. The event will welcome over 250 top airline executives from 18 airlines and global regulatory bodies such as ICAO and IATA.
On the marketing front, the company’s 2025 sales strategy focuses on international markets, which deliver the airline’s primary customer base.
Sales projections indicate that 28% of ticket sales will be sold through the airline’s website and 72% via other channels (IATA Bank Settlement Plan travel agents, online travel agencies, and the airline’s call centres). The “other schannels” include 32% sales derived from direct application programme interface (API) and the IATA New Distribution Capability.
Outsourcing to traditional general sales agency channels, the airline will tap bookings in Southwest Asia, Saudi Arabia, Latin America, and Turkey, leveraging 26 General Sales agency offices worldwide.
Specifically, it targets prime markets such as the US, UK, Germany, and Australia. At the same time, the company strengthens its presence in high-growth markets such as Kazakhstan, Saudi Arabia, India, and China, where visa-free policies are stimulating demand. The airline also enhances direct connectivity via API/NDC/Direct Connect.
Bangkok Airways also enhances its codeshare ticketing system with leading airlines such as Qantas, Thai Airways, British Airways, Lufthansa Group, Emirates, Etihad, and EVA Air.
PHNOM PENH, 18 April 2025: Cambodia Airways celebrated its inaugural flight to the domestic destination Dara Sakor in Cambodia’s Koh Kong province earlier this week, the only airline to serve the domestic airport (DSY).
Flying an A320 with 180 seats, KR809 departs every Friday at 1515, arriving at the recently opened Dara Sakor International Airport at 1600.
Photo credit: Cambodia Air. Dara Sakor’s 3,400-metre runway.
The return KR810 departs Dara Sakor airport at 1640 and arrives in Phnom Penh at 1725.
Commencing services with a single weekly flight, the airline says in a Facebook post that it intends to increase frequencies to three weekly once passenger demand justifies expansion.
“The launch of this new flight route will not only reduce travelling time between Phnom Penh and Dara Sakor, it will also make it easier for travellers to visit and explore the breathtaking beauty of the Dara Sakor region,” the airline said in the Facebook post.
The airline noted that its Dara Sakor Phnom Penh service is the first and only commercial flight between Phnom Penh and the airport in Koh Kong province. It didn’t mention that having a casino and a resort hotel as neighbours might help to boost passenger demand on the route.
Dara Sakor International Airport (DSY)
Dara Sakor International Airport is located in Dara Sakor in Koh Kong Province, Cambodia. It’s a public-use airport in development serving Botum Sakor in Cambodia. Chinese-owned Tianjin Union Development Group developed the airport at the cost of USD350 million. Commercial test flights of the 3,400-metre runway took place in mid-2023. Initially, it will serve travellers heading for the Dara Sakor Resort and a nearby casino (Source: Wikipedia).
Other assets close by
Deep-water port: The port in Dara Sakor seaport can handle large ships, including cruise ships. Military implications: The US has expressed concerns about the airport’s potential use by Chinese military aircraft and the deep-water port’s ability to support Chinese warships. Ream Naval Base: The Cambodian government has granted China exclusive rights to operate within Cambodia’s Ream Naval Base for 30 years. The base is also near Dara Sakor.
Why fly to Dara Sakor?
Cambodia Air’s decision to fly to Dara Sakor Airport in Koh Kong province is likely driven by several factors, primarily related to tourism and economic development in the region.
Boosting Tourism: Koh Kong province boasts significant natural attractions, including a long coastline with islands and beaches, dense rainforests in the Cardamom Mountains, and ecotourism opportunities like mangrove kayaking and wildlife spotting.
The commencement of regular flights to Dara Sakor Airport significantly improves accessibility for both domestic and international tourists, who previously had to rely on long road journeys from Phnom Penh or flights from Siem Reap.
Attracting Investment: The development of Dara Sakor Airport itself, a large-scale project, signals a focus on economic growth in Koh Kong. Improved air connectivity can attract domestic and foreign investment in various sectors, including tourism, real estate, and industry.
Serving the Dara Sakor Resort: The airport is intended to serve the new Dara Sakor Resort, a significant tourism and development project. By offering direct flights, Cambodia Air can cater to the resort’s visitors, making it a more attractive destination once flights increase to three weekly.
Developing Domestic Air Travel: Cambodia Air’s new route from Phnom Penh is a key step in establishing domestic air travel to this previously underserved region. This aligns with a broader trend in developing air connectivity within Cambodia.
Strategic Location: Koh Kong’s location bordering Thailand also makes Dara Sakor Airport a potentially important gateway for cross-border tourism and trade in the future. While the initial flights are domestic, the airport’s infrastructure suggests ambitions for international connections are on the table.
Photo credit Google Map. Dara Sakor International Airport, 198 km from Sihanoukville town by road. The ferry route from Dara Sakor to Koh Rong island is approximately 18 km or 10 nautical miles.
