On Sunday, February 8, 2026, Preah Sihanouk province in Cambodia marked a significant milestone in its journey toward becoming a premier tourism and investment destination in Southeast Asia. The province launched a new direct flight route linking Sihanouk International Airport to Xiamen City in China’s Fujian province, a move widely anticipated to strengthen tourism, trade, and investment ties between Cambodia and China. The inaugural flight, operated by Sky Angkor Airlines under the flight number ZA687, carried 147 passengers, symbolizing the dawn of a new era of connectivity for the coastal region.
The inauguration ceremony was presided over by Mang Sineth, the Governor of Preah Sihanouk province, at the bustling Sihanouk International Airport located in Ream commune, Kampong Som city. According to AKP, Governor Sineth described the new route as a clear reflection of Cambodia’s ongoing development and the growing significance of Preah Sihanouk as a hub for both tourism and investment. The event was more than just a ribbon-cutting; it was a statement of intent, underscoring the province’s aspirations to attract more visitors and investors from one of Asia’s largest economies.
The addition of Xiamen expands Preah Sihanouk’s direct air connections to six major Chinese cities: Shenzhen, Wuxi, Chengdu, Macau, Kunming, and now Xiamen. The province also maintains international routes to Kuala Lumpur and Ho Chi Minh City, along with daily domestic flights. As reported by multiple sources, this growing web of air routes is no accident. Governor Sineth emphasized that expanded air connectivity is a strategic priority for the Cambodian government, designed to make the province more accessible to international travelers and businesspeople alike.
"The new route to Xiamen reflects Cambodia’s continued development and Preah Sihanouk’s growing significance as a tourism and investment destination," Governor Sineth said during the ceremony, as quoted by local news outlets. He went on to highlight the importance of air links in boosting not only tourism but also trade and investment between Cambodia and China. For a region renowned for its pristine beaches, idyllic islands, and natural beauty, these connections are a vital artery—bringing in tourists, investors, and new opportunities.
Sky Angkor Airlines, which operates the new route, has committed to running one flight per week between Preah Sihanouk and Xiamen. This direct travel option is expected to be the first of many as the partnership between Cambodia and China continues to deepen. The inaugural flight, filled with 147 eager passengers, was a testament to the pent-up demand for such a connection.
According to reports from the Cambodia Daily, the launch of the Xiamen route is expected to have a ripple effect throughout the local economy. China has long been one of Cambodia’s largest source markets for tourists. With the new direct flight, the number of Chinese visitors to Preah Sihanouk is projected to rise significantly. This surge in arrivals will drive demand for hotels, restaurants, tour operators, and a host of local businesses, providing a vital boost to the region’s economic fortunes.
But it’s not just about tourism. Increased air connectivity is also set to facilitate more efficient movement of goods and services between Cambodia and China. As trade relations deepen, the new route is expected to spur a fresh wave of foreign direct investment, particularly in sectors such as hospitality, real estate, and infrastructure development. Local officials and business leaders are optimistic that Chinese companies will seize the opportunity to tap into Preah Sihanouk’s burgeoning tourism and commercial sectors.
The significance of this development is not lost on those in the region. Preah Sihanouk has been steadily building its reputation as a key destination for both leisure travelers and business tourists. Its stunning natural attractions—ranging from sun-drenched beaches to lush islands—have long drawn visitors from across the globe. Now, with easier access for Chinese tourists and investors, the province’s profile is set to rise even further.
Governor Sineth was keen to highlight the factors that make Preah Sihanouk such an attractive destination. "The flight connections highlight Preah Sihanouk’s security and stability, which are essential for attracting long-term tourism and investment," he stated, as cited by AKP. He also reaffirmed the provincial administration’s unwavering commitment to public security, environmental protection, and sustainable tourism practices. These, he argued, are the bedrock upon which the region’s future growth will be built.
Sustainability is not just a buzzword in Preah Sihanouk—it’s a necessity. As tourist numbers climb, the risk of overdevelopment and environmental degradation becomes ever more real. Local authorities have pledged to maintain strict standards of environmental conservation and public hygiene, ensuring that the province’s natural beauty is preserved for generations to come. The development of eco-friendly tourism infrastructure and conservation initiatives will be central to this effort, helping to strike a balance between growth and preservation.
According to the Phnom Penh Post, the new direct flight to Xiamen is expected to play a key role in reinforcing Cambodia’s position as a top destination for Chinese tourists and investors. It will also enhance regional connectivity and promote greater cultural exchange between the two countries. As China remains a dominant source of outbound travelers, the convenience of direct flights is likely to make Preah Sihanouk an even more attractive option for those seeking sun, sea, and investment opportunities.
For local businesses, the benefits are clear. The anticipated influx of Chinese tourists will provide a welcome boost to the hospitality sector, while increased trade and investment will create new jobs and spur economic development. The province’s growing international reach is also expected to encourage more collaboration between Cambodian and Chinese firms, paving the way for joint ventures and knowledge sharing in areas such as tourism management and sustainable development.
Looking ahead, the successful launch of the direct flight to Xiamen is being hailed as a turning point for Preah Sihanouk’s economy and tourism sector. Local officials are confident that the province’s focus on sustainability, security, and connectivity will ensure that growth continues apace—without sacrificing the natural and cultural assets that make the region unique. As more direct routes are added and partnerships with China deepen, Preah Sihanouk is poised to cement its status as one of Southeast Asia’s most dynamic and desirable destinations.
The new direct flight to Xiamen is more than just a transportation link—it’s a bridge to a brighter, more prosperous future for Preah Sihanouk, its residents, and the countless travelers and investors who will soon discover all it has to offer.