CNN has named Phnom Penh Techo International Airport as a top global architectural project to watch for in 2025, sharing space with the Sydney Fish Market in Australia, the Skypark in Luxembourg, the Danjiang Bridge in Tapei and other notable projects.
Techo International Airport, located about 20 kilometers (12 miles) south of Phnom Penh’s city center, is sure to put Cambodia on global travelers’ itineraries. Designed by Foster + Partners, the airport seamlessly blends traditional Cambodian aesthetics with cutting-edge technology, offering a world-class travel experience while prioritizing sustainability and functionality.
The terminal’s design draws from Cambodia’s rich heritage, incorporating vernacular forms and natural materials in a modern way. At the heart of the terminal is a central “head house” flanked by two aerofoil-shaped wings. This arrangement optimizes walking distances and ensures a smooth flow for passengers, housing check-in, security, immigration, and retail services under a single expansive roof. The roof itself is an architectural marvel—a lightweight steel grid shell supported by timber-inspired “structural trees,” spanning 36 meters. It not only filters daylight to illuminate the interior but also provides shelter from the tropical elements.
Sustainability is a cornerstone of the project. The terminal will be powered almost entirely by an onsite solar farm, making it one of the greenest airports in the world. Inside, natural light floods the spaces, and lush greenery—including mature trees in the central void—creates a calming, eco-conscious atmosphere. The design also minimizes energy use and running costs while incorporating local craftsmanship and materials.
Techo International Airport is being developed in phases to accommodate future growth. The initial phase, with a capacity of 13 million passengers annually, includes the central terminal and one aerofoil wing. Once fully expanded, the airport will handle up to 30 million passengers, positioning Cambodia as a regional aviation hub and a prime destination for global travelers.
Beyond the terminal, the airport is part of a broader masterplan that includes an “airport city,” setting new benchmarks for passenger experience and urban development in Southeast Asia. By marrying tradition with innovation, Techo International Airport represents a bold vision for Cambodia’s future.
As for real estate implications, we’re confident the area near the Phnom Penh International Airport will rapidly appreciate in price especially upon it’s phase 1 completion this year. The new airport will be located in Kandal Stung District, Kandal Province.
