Turkish Airlines is set to make aviation history with the launch of its first regular direct service between Istanbul and Phnom Penh on December 10, 2025. As earlier reported by AseanAirMail.com, Turkish Airlines is launching this service in 2025 following high-level discussions between Cambodian and Turkish aviation officials. This landmark route will bridge Europe and Southeast Asia like never before, boosting trade, tourism, and economic growth between Türkiye and Cambodia.
Expanding the Far East Network
As part of its strategic expansion in Asia, Turkish Airlines is enhancing its Far East network, which now spans 20 cities and 21 airports. This new direct route makes Turkish Airlines the only European carrier to serve Phnom Penh and the seventh flag carrier overall, reinforcing its leadership in the region. The decision to launch this service came after extensive talks aimed at strengthening air connectivity between the two nations, as detailed in our previous report, Turkish Airlines Moves Closer to Direct Flights to Cambodia Following High-Level Talks. With this service, passengers will benefit from seamless connectivity through Turkish Airlines’ extensive global network, linking them to destinations across Europe, the Middle East, and Asia.
Route Details and Flight Schedule
The historic Istanbul–Phnom Penh service will operate with a brief stopover in Bangkok, ensuring a smooth and convenient journey for both business and leisure travellers. The carefully designed flight schedule is as follows:
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Outbound Flight (TK52):
- Departure from Istanbul (IST): 22:05 on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays
- Arrival in Bangkok (BKK): 11:15 the next day
- Departure from Bangkok: 12:50
- Arrival in Phnom Penh (PNH): 14:20
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Return Flight (TK53):
- Departure from Phnom Penh (PNH): 18:40 on Mondays, Thursdays, and Saturdays
- Arrival in Bangkok (BKK): 20:10
- Departure from Bangkok: 21:40
- Arrival in Istanbul (IST): 04:55 the following day
This schedule, featuring three weekly flights in each direction, reduces travel time by eliminating multiple layovers, ensuring a reliable and comfortable connection between Türkiye and Cambodia.
Boosting Trade and Tourism
The launch of this direct service is expected to significantly boost bilateral trade relations between Türkiye and Cambodia. By providing easier access to Phnom Penh, the route will stimulate tourism, allowing more Turkish and European visitors to explore Cambodia’s rich cultural heritage, bustling markets, and historic landmarks. In addition, improved connectivity will support business travel and open up new investment opportunities, contributing to Cambodia’s steadily growing economy.
Prof. Ahmet Bolat, Chairman of the Board and Executive Committee of Turkish Airlines, stated, “At Turkish Airlines, we continuously expand our network in Asia and strengthen our connections with strategic destinations in the region. The launch of Phnom Penh flights marks a significant step forward in this goal. Our flights to Cambodia will create new opportunities for both tourism and business.”
Conclusion
The upcoming launch of Turkish Airlines’ direct flight from Istanbul to Phnom Penh on December 10, 2025, marks a pivotal moment in regional aviation. With its carefully planned schedule, state-of-the-art service, and the promise of enhanced trade and tourism, this new route is set to redefine air travel between Europe and Southeast Asia. As both Turkish Airlines and Cambodian authorities look forward to the positive impact of this service, passengers can anticipate a new era of global connectivity and convenience. For more updates on airline news and emerging travel routes, stay tuned to AseanAirMail.com.