Why Did Cambodia's Civil Aviation Authority Ban Flights Over Conflict Zones with Thailand?
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Synopsis
In a significant move, Cambodia's SSCA has banned flights over conflict zones with Thailand, ensuring passenger safety amid escalating tensions. As clashes continue along the border, all airlines are instructed to adjust their routes, maintaining safe altitudes. Stay informed about the latest developments in this ongoing situation.
Key Takeaways
- Flights banned over conflict zones to ensure passenger safety.
- Airlines must maintain an altitude above 1,200 meters.
- Prohibition includes Poipet, Pailin province, and parts of Siem Reap.
- International flights are adjusting routes accordingly.
- Ongoing military clashes reported along the border.
Phnom Penh, July 26 (NationPress) The State Secretariat of Civil Aviation (SSCA) in Cambodia has officially prohibited all flights from traversing conflict zones with Thailand, according to a spokesperson's announcement.
Sinn Chanserey Vutha, serving as the SSCA's secretary of state, revealed that all airlines have been notified to steer clear of flying over areas of conflict. The ban now extends to include Poipet City, Pailin province, and parts of Siem Reap province.
"All flights must refrain from entering these airspaces, and aircraft are required to maintain an altitude of no less than 1,200 meters above sea level," he stated in an audio message disseminated to the media.
The intention behind these measures is to safeguard flight operations as well as the welfare of both planes and passengers.
As of 10 a.m. local time on July 26, international flights from Phnom Penh to Bangkok and from Siem Reap to Bangkok are continuing as scheduled, with aircraft adjusting their routes to avoid restricted airspaces.
Reports indicate that confrontations persist in various regions along the Thailand-Cambodia border, where Cambodian military forces are engaged in sustained bombardments utilizing heavy weaponry, field artillery, and BM-21 rocket systems.
In response, Thai armed forces have executed appropriate counter-fire as per tactical demands and have issued warnings to local civilians to stay clear of conflict zones.
On Friday morning, artillery fire was once again audible in the vicinity of the border, as reported by the National Broadcasting Services of Thailand, citing a local official in Surin province.
The deputy spokesperson for the Thai Ministry of Public Health reported that a total of 14 Thai individuals lost their lives and 46 sustained injuries during military confrontations near the Thailand-Cambodia border as of 9:00 p.m. local time on Thursday.
Cambodia's Oddar Meanchey deputy governor, Met Meas Pheakdey, informed Xinhua via telephone that one villager lost their life and five others were injured on Thursday when Thai forces shelled Cambodian territory.
Point of View
It's imperative to highlight that the safety of our citizens and international travelers is paramount. The SSCA's proactive approach in banning flights over conflict zones reflects a commitment to ensuring safe air travel amidst rising tensions along the Thailand-Cambodia border. Maintaining open lines of communication with both nations involved is essential to navigate this situation responsibly.
NationPress
27/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted Cambodia to ban flights over conflict zones?
The ban was implemented to ensure the safety of passengers and aircraft amid ongoing military clashes along the Thailand-Cambodia border.
Are flights from Phnom Penh to Bangkok still operating?
Yes, international flights from Phnom Penh to Bangkok and Siem Reap to Bangkok are continuing as normal, with routes adjusted to avoid prohibited airspaces.
What areas are included in the flight prohibition?
The flight prohibition extends to Poipet City, Pailin province, and parts of Siem Reap province.
How high must planes fly to comply with the new regulations?
Planes must not fly lower than 1,200 meters above sea level in the designated airspaces.
What has been the impact of the clashes on local civilians?
Reports indicate casualties among both Thai and Cambodian civilians due to the ongoing military confrontations near the border.
