Flights from Cambodia to Thailand not expected until July

Flights from Cambodia to Thailand not expected until July

Thailand’s move to extend its ban on passenger flights for another month to June 30, citing the need to contain the spread of the coronavirus disease, puts another dent in Cambodia’s efforts to kick-start its economy and tourism.

According to the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand, no passenger flights originating outside the country may land at Thai airports until June 30.

The extended flight ban has led to speculation that the state of the emergency decree may also be prolonged beyond May 31, although the number of new Covid-19 cases has remained steady for two weeks, even falling to zero on two days this week.

Currently, several international airlines have resumed flights, albeit on a lesser frequency such as Korean Air and Aseana Air which fly two times a week between Seoul and Cambodia.

China Air and Eva Air all reinstated flight routes into Phnom Penh International Airport at the start of this month.

Other major airlines such as Qatar Airways, Cathay Pacific, Thai Airways, and Emirates are also scheduling flights to resume to Cambodia in June and July this year, coinciding with their main departure points also planning to reinstate international flight paths.

However, airlines that have decided to restart routes have also implemented strict biosecurity conditions during the flights to follow with reports of passengers having to undergo “on the spot” blood tests, as well as, wearing personal protection wear with staff seen dressed in full bio suits. Khmer Times/Bangkok Post