Joint Exercise at Phnom Penh's New Airport

Approximately 100 volunteers participated in a comprehensive Operational Readiness and Transfer (ORAT) exercise at the newly constructed Techo International Airport (TIA) in Phnom Penh, Cambodia The exercise, completed on August 9th, 2025, simulated various scenarios to test the airport's preparedness for its official opening on September 9th, 2025 The exercise was conducted by Cambodia Airport Investment Co (CAIC), the company responsible for the airport's development The ORAT exercise covered a wide range of operational aspects, including passenger processing, baggage handling, security protocols, emergency response procedures, and coordination between various stakeholders such as airlines, ground handling agents, customs and immigration officials, and airport security personnel The scenarios included simulated emergencies, such as a fire incident or a medical emergency on board an aircraft, to test the airport’s ability to respond swiftly and effectively The participation of approximately 100 volunteers provided a realistic simulation of a busy airport environment, allowing for the identification and rectification of any operational gaps before the official commencement of commercial operations This proactive measure underscores Cambodia's commitment to establishing a high-quality and efficient aviation infrastructure The new airport is expected to significantly boost Cambodia's tourism and economic development, playing a key role in the country's integration into the regional and global aviation network The scale of this ORAT exercise signifies the significance of TIA as a key element of Cambodia's infrastructure development It is anticipated to become a major transportation hub not only for domestic flights but also for international connections within the ASEAN region and beyond The smooth conduct of the exercise indicates a high level of preparedness for the impending opening, setting the stage for a successful launch of operations Current SituationThe involvement of numerous stakeholders highlights the collaborative nature of the project This comprehensive approach ensures a unified and coordinated response in the event of unforeseen circumstances, contributing to a safer and more efficient airport operation The exercise also serves as an invaluable learning experience for airport staff, providing valuable insights into handling real-world challenges effectively This investment in infrastructure and preparedness is in line with Cambodia's broader economic development strategy Improving air connectivity is crucial for attracting foreign investment, facilitating trade, and driving tourism growth, contributing significantly to the nation’s overall economic progress The success of this exercise reflects the commitment to ensuring the seamless operation of TIA and its contribution to regional connectivity within Southeast Asia The new airport represents a significant step forward for Cambodia's aviation sector The extensive testing and preparation underline the government's dedication to ensuring safe and efficient operations, bolstering the country's position as a growing hub in Southeast Asia The comprehensive ORAT exercise reflects a strong emphasis on safety, efficiency, and preparedness, setting a positive precedent for future airport operations in the region The success of this ORAT exercise provides a significant boost of confidence as the airport prepares for its grand opening, and underscores Cambodia's commitment to regional integration and economic growth through improved infrastructure The new airport’s capacity to handle a substantial increase in air traffic will significantly impact economic activity and trade flows not only in Cambodia, but also within the wider ASEAN economic community