Phnom Penh Airports Guide: Terminals, Transport, and Essential Information

Cambodia’s capital city is served by a single international airport, which acts as the nation’s primary gateway for business, tourism, and diplomatic travel. Phnom Penh International Airport (PNH) is a modernizing facility that provides connections across Asia and a limited number of long-haul routes. Understanding this airport’s layout and the local transport landscape is key to a smooth arrival and departure in the bustling capital.

This guide provides everything you need to know about flying into and out of Phnom Penh, including terminal details, the best ways to reach the city centre, and essential tips for navigating your first moments in Cambodia.

Phnom Penh International Airport (PNH)

Overview: Phnom Penh International Airport (PNH) is the busiest airport in Cambodia, located approximately 10 km (6 miles) west of the city centre. The airport has undergone significant upgrades in recent years, featuring a modern international terminal. It serves as a hub for Cambodia Angkor Air and a base for many regional carriers, offering flights to major Southeast Asian cities as well as limited services to China and the Middle East.

Terminals: PNH has two main passenger terminals located next to each other.

• Terminal 1 (International Terminal): A newer, modern terminal that handles all international arrivals and departures. It houses check-in counters, immigration, baggage claim, and customs.
• Terminal 2 (Domestic Terminal): An older, more basic terminal located adjacent to Terminal 1. It handles all domestic flights within Cambodia (e.g., to Siem Reap and Sihanoukville).

The terminals are a short, 2-3 minute walk apart. Signage is generally clear in both Khmer and English.

Getting to and from PNH:

• PassApp / Grab (Ride-Hailing – Most Recommended):
  The most convenient, transparent, and affordable option. Download either the PassApp (local) or Grab app before you arrive. Free airport WiFi is available to book a ride. Designated pick-up is outside the terminals. A ride to the city centre (Riverside area) costs approximately $7-$12 USD and takes 20-45 minutes depending on notorious Phnom Penh traffic.
• Official Airport Taxi:
  Purchase a fixed-fare coupon from the official taxi counter inside the arrivals hall (before exiting). This avoids negotiation. The fare to the city centre is typically $12-$15 USD. Present the coupon to a driver at the rank outside.
• Tuk-Tuk (Remorque):
  For a classic Cambodian experience and if you have light luggage, you can negotiate with tuk-tuk drivers at the rank outside arrivals. Agree on a price before getting in. A fare to the Riverside should be $5-$9 USD. Be prepared for an open-air, dusty, and potentially slow journey in traffic.
• Hotel Pick-Up:
  Many hotels offer complimentary or paid airport transfers. This is a stress-free option, especially for first-time visitors. Arrange in advance via email.
• Car Rental:
  Counters for international (e.g., Avis, Hertz) and local agencies are in the International Arrivals hall. Renting a car with a driver is the standard and recommended practice for exploring beyond the city. Self-driving in Phnom Penh’s chaotic traffic is strongly discouraged for visitors.

Money Tip: Have some small US Dollars ($1, $5, $10 bills) ready for transport. USD is widely accepted, but you may receive change in Cambodian Riel.

Best for: All international and domestic commercial flights to Phnom Penh and Cambodia.

Other Cambodian Airports (for Context)

Siem Reap–Angkor International Airport (SAI): The new, modern airport serving the Angkor Wat temple complex, located about 50 km from Siem Reap town. It has replaced the old airport (REP). Most tourists enter Cambodia via either PNH or SAI.

Sihanouk International Airport (KOS): Serves the coastal region near Sihanoukville.

Which Airport for Phnom Penh?

There is only one commercial airport for the capital: Phnom Penh International Airport (PNH). All scheduled passenger flights will arrive and depart from here.

Essential Information for Phnom Penh Travel

Visa on Arrival & e-Visa:

• Tourist Visa: Most nationalities can obtain a Tourist Visa on Arrival at PNH ($30 USD, requires one passport photo) or apply for an e-Visa online beforehand. The e-Visa line is often much faster. Have cash (USD) and documents ready.
• Process: Upon landing, go directly to the visa counter before immigration if you need a Visa on Arrival. Fill out the form, pay, then proceed to passport control.

Arrival Process at PNH:

1. Deplane and walk to the International Terminal (T1).
2. Complete visa process if required.
3. Proceed to immigration for passport stamp.
4. Collect checked baggage from the carousels.
5. Walk through customs (green/nothing to declare or red channel).
6. Exit into the arrivals hall for transport, money exchange, and SIM cards.

Local Tips:

• Get a Local SIM: Immediately upon exiting baggage claim, purchase a tourist SIM card from providers like Cellcard or Smart. Affordable data plans (e.g., $5 for a week) are essential for navigation and ride-hailing.
• Currency: USD is king for larger transactions. Riel is used for small purchases (under $1). Exchange counters and ATMs (dispensing USD) are in the arrivals hall. Avoid money changers outside.
• Traffic is Intense: Road rules are… suggestive. Allow generous time for airport transfers, especially during peak hours (7-9 AM, 4-7 PM).
• Airport Departure Tax: This is now included in your airline ticket price. You do not need to pay cash at the airport.

Departure Tips:

• Check-In: Arrive 3 hours before international flights and 2 hours before domestic flights. Lines can be long, especially at peak times for airlines like Air Asia.
• Security & Immigration: The process is standard. Have your passport, boarding pass, and visa (if applicable) ready.
• Duty-Free & Food: Options post-security are limited and expensive. Eat and shop in the city before you come.

Final Advice: Arriving at Phnom Penh Airport is generally efficient. Have your visa strategy decided, download PassApp/Grab, and prepare small USD bills. The official taxi coupon counter is a safe, hassle-free choice if you’re not using an app. Embrace the organized chaos and warmth of Cambodia from the moment you land. Your adventure begins just outside the terminal doors.