Chongqing- Southwest China's Chongqing has recently inaugurated its first international passenger route of the year with a direct flight service to Phnom Penh, Cambodia. Operated by Cambodia Airlines, flight KR963 landed at Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport at 22:14 on January 6.

Chongqing launches direct flight to Phnom Penh, Cambodia. (Graphic/ Zheng Ran)

Cambodia Airlines operates the route twice weekly, Mondays and Saturdays, through Airbus A319/A320 aircraft. Departing Phnom Penh at 7:10 PM, the flight lands in Chongqing at 10:30 PM. Return flights depart Chongqing at 11:30 PM and arrive in Phnom Penh at 2:55 AM the following day.

Phnom Penh, known for its rich history and vibrant culture, presents an attractive destination for travelers. Visitors can explore the city's stunning Khmer architecture, indulge in its flavorful street food, and immerse themselves in the blend of ancient and modern Cambodian culture, especially around the picturesque Tonle Sap Lake.

Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport, already a hub for 21 international and regional passenger routes, including flights to major cities like London, Paris, Rome, Madrid, Budapest, Sydney, Doha, and Dubai, operates over 100 weekly flights. 

The airport is expanding its network with strategic plans for intercontinental routes and connections to RCEP (Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership) countries. Upcoming developments include launching a Milan route by the end of January and working towards establishing new routes to New York, Los Angeles, Tokyo, Manila, Jakarta, Vientiane, and Yangon. 

These initiatives are integral to a broader strategy to strengthen Chongqing's international route network and consolidate its status as a global aviation hub.