Air Cambodia to Launch Chinese-Made Aircraft by Year-End

Air Cambodia (K6), the national carrier of Cambodia, is preparing to commence commercial operations of Chinese-made C909 aircraft by the end of this year. This initiative is part of the Cambodian government's ongoing efforts to enhance international air connectivity, according to a press release from the State Secretariat of Civil Aviation (SSCA).

The airline has ordered a total of 10 C909 aircraft from the Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China (COMAC), with deliveries scheduled over a five-year period starting this year. The agreements were formalized during a signing ceremony held on July 17, 2026, at COMAC's headquarters in Shanghai, attended by SSCA Minister Mao Havannall and COMAC Chairman He Dongfeng.

The SSCA stated that these agreements represent a milestone in strengthening the cooperation between Cambodia and China, particularly within the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative. The cooperation aims to foster development in Cambodia's civil aviation sector through technology transfer, human resource training, and enhanced aircraft maintenance capabilities.

“This marks the first time in history that Cambodia has selected and commissioned the Chinese-manufactured C909 aircraft for its national carrier’s operations.”SSCA

The SSCA noted that this marks the first time in history that Cambodia has selected and commissioned the Chinese-manufactured C909 aircraft for its national carrier’s operations, highlighting the importance of this achievement in diversifying Cambodia's aviation fleet and showcasing trust in Chinese aviation technology.

Despite these advancements, Cambodia's aviation sector has faced challenges. The SSCA reported a decrease in passenger traffic during the first half of 2026, with 3.27 million passengers recorded across the country's three international airports, down 7 percent compared to the same period last year. Nevertheless, the number of flights remained stable at 32,306.

Analysts suggest that the introduction of the C909 aircraft could help Air Cambodia improve its operational capabilities and expand its route network, thereby enhancing the country's competitiveness in the regional aviation market. The SSCA framed these developments as part of a broader strategy to elevate Cambodia's aviation standards on the global stage, under the leadership of Prime Minister Hun Manet.