Cambodia Airways has officially taken delivery of its first ATR 72-600 turboprop aircraft in a major move to expand regional connectivity and step up local competition.

The brand-new aircraft successfully touched down at Phnom Penh Techo International Airport last week, where it was warmly welcomed by the airline’s executive team and aviation officials.

The arrival of the aircraft marks further enhancement of the airline’s operational capabilities and network expansion potential.

The ATR 72-600 is the most advanced regional turboprop aircraft in the world, manufactured by ATR, a joint venture between Airbus and Leonardo.

Equipped with the latest-generation Pratt & Whitney PW127XT engines, the aircraft offers excellent fuel efficiency and short takeoff and landing performance, making it particularly well-suited for domestic and short-haul regional routes in Cambodia and Southeast Asia.

The ATR 72-600 is fitted with an advanced flight management system, an enhanced ground proximity warning system, and state-of-the-art avionics, achieving leading safety performance among aircraft in its class.

The aircraft features a low-noise cabin design, large windows, and an optimized seating layout, providing passengers with a spacious cabin and significantly improved comfort for a quieter and more pleasant flight experience.

The airline stated that it will steadily advance its fleet modernisation, enhance operational safety and service quality, expand its regional route network, and better meet passenger travel needs, while contributing to regional connectivity, tourism development, and economic growth.

The induction of the ATR 72-600 intensifies competition in Cambodia’s domestic airspace. The national flag carrier Air Cambodia (formerly Cambodia Angkor Air) has relied on the ATR platform for local routes.

Meanwhile, preparations for the airline’s second ATR 72-600 aircraft are already underway, with delivery expected by the end of 2026.

Source: KhmerTime