Kolkata IndiGo flight connects India Cambodia with direct Siem Reap service
Kolkata will soon become the gateway to Cambodia as IndiGo prepares to launch direct flights to Siem Reap, making it the first Indian carrier to establish a non-stop link between the two nations. Beginning 13 November, the airline will operate three weekly services on the route, signalling a significant step in India’s aviation and tourism growth story.
he flights will connect travellers every Monday, Thursday and Saturday, departing Kolkata in the early hours and returning the same morning from Siem Reap. Operated by Airbus A320neo aircraft, the route has been designed to suit both leisure and business travellers, ensuring affordable fares and efficient connections.Industry officials view this development as a turning point in regional connectivity. Cambodia, with Siem Reap as home to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Angkor Wat, has long been a sought-after destination for Indian tourists. The direct link from Kolkata is expected to reduce travel time and costs while making Cambodia more accessible for cultural, economic and diplomatic engagement.
Experts note that this move aligns with India’s growing aviation footprint in Southeast Asia. The new service is not only poised to enhance tourism but also to strengthen bilateral relations in trade and cultural exchange. Cambodia has seen a surge in Indian visitors in recent years, supported by relaxed visa rules and increasing interest in cross-border collaboration. With direct connectivity, the flow of passengers is expected to accelerate, creating new opportunities for the hospitality and services sector in both countries.
Aviation specialists emphasise that IndiGo’s strategy of leveraging Kolkata’s location as a hub for Southeast Asia positions the city as a vital link in regional mobility. This marks Siem Reap as the seventh international destination served directly from Kolkata by the carrier, further consolidating the city’s status as a global travel node.For the wider Indian aviation market, the launch represents a step forward in diversifying international routes beyond traditional hubs in the Gulf and Europe. With a fleet of over 400 aircraft and more than 2,200 daily flights, IndiGo continues to expand its network, placing an emphasis on sustainable growth and efficient use of newer, more fuel-efficient aircraft.
Industry analysts point out that the A320neo model operating on the route underscores the push towards lower carbon emissions, aligning with the global agenda for cleaner air travel.The launch of this Kolkata–Siem Reap service is more than a commercial expansion. It represents India’s aspirations for deeper regional integration, offering travellers a direct bridge to Cambodia’s rich heritage while promoting tourism, trade, and sustainable mobility between the two countries.As operations commence next month, the service is set to redefine travel experiences for passengers seeking faster, affordable, and greener journeys between India and Southeast Asia.
