Cambodia has signed a landmark agreement to acquire 20 Chinese-made C909 regional jetliners, marking a pivotal moment in its aviation ambitions and deepening ties with Beijing. The deal, formalised this week in Zhengzhou, Henan province, includes 10 confirmed orders and 10 additional letters of intent, according to officials from Air Cambodia and the Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China (COMAC).

 

The move comes as Cambodia prepares to launch operations at the newly built Techo International Airport, which aims to become a major regional hub. The acquisition is expected to significantly expand Air Cambodia’s fleet and improve connectivity across Southeast Asia, where demand for air travel continues to surge.

 

Chinese Ambassador Wang Wenbin hailed the agreement as “a new step in aviation cooperation of great significance,” reinforcing China’s commitment to support Cambodia’s infrastructure and tourism growth. The C909, previously branded as the ARJ21, is China’s first jet-powered aircraft to reach commercial production and seats up to 90 passengers. Its deployment in Cambodia signals Beijing’s push to challenge Western aircraft giants and expand its footprint in friendly markets.

 

Beyond aircraft delivery, the Memorandum of Understanding outlines broader cooperation in operational support and industrial development. For Cambodia, the deal is not just about planes—it’s about positioning itself as a gateway for regional travel and tourism.

 

Lor Vichet, Vice President of the Cambodia Chinese Commerce Association, emphasised the strategic timing of the purchase. “Before COVID-19, Chinese tourists were the leading arrivals in Cambodia. This cooperation will help promote additional flights from major Chinese cities to Phnom Penh,” he said. The agreement also aligns with the Cambodia-China Tourism Year 2025 initiative, aimed at boosting bilateral travel and economic exchange.

 

With Chinese investment already behind the construction of Techo International Airport, the jetliner deal further cements Cambodia’s role as a key partner in China’s regional aviation strategy. As deliveries begin, the Kingdom hopes to translate this partnership into tangible gains for its tourism sector and broader economy.

 

 

-2025-09-12

Chinese won't even fly on them. What an utter waste!

In the picture -

 

For Lao Airlines read Air Cambodia.