Cambodia Investment Review
Cambodia’s helicopter market is growing, driven by the expanding high-end tourism industry and increasing demand from wealthy individuals and companies for convenient transportation. In this explainer, we delve into the helicopter scene in Cambodia, discussing the availability, main players, and services offered, as well as the process of obtaining a helicopter license in the country.
Helicopter Travel in Cambodia
Helicopters in Cambodia are more common than private jets, primarily due to two reasons: the relatively new but expanding high-end tourist industry and their use by affluent individuals and businesses for transportation within the Kingdom. A simple Google search will reveal Helicopters Cambodia, one of the leading players in the market, focusing on tourism and charter services.
These services cater to various needs such as business travel, emergency hospital transfers, and sightseeing tours. The company offers fixed tours, private tours, and transfers between popular destinations like Siem Reap and Phnom Penh.
Read more: Novation Academy aims to turn Cambodia into flight training hub
The completion of the Phnom Penh-Sihanoukville Expressway has increased the demand for private plane and helicopter operators, resulting in healthy competition on this route. Helicopters are particularly popular for island travel, such as to Koh Rong and beyond, as they eliminate the need for sea travel and require less space for landing compared to planes.
Price-wise, The Royal Sands of Koh Rong offers a short trip to Sihanoukville for $700 and a trip to Siem Reap for $6400, accommodating up to four passengers in Bell505 and EC130 Eurocopter models.
Helicopter Tourism in Cambodia
Cambodia’s helicopter tourism sector offers a range of services, from point-to-point transfers like the Phnom Penh to Siem Reap route mentioned earlier, to more affordable “joy rides” that provide tourists with an aerial view of a location and a taste of helicopter travel. For instance, Helistar Cambodia offers 12-minute Phnom Penh Sneak flights starting at around $720 per person (maximum of 5 passengers). These short flights allow tourists to experience a unique perspective of the city and the thrill of riding in a helicopter without breaking the bank.
However, the private charter market catering to high-end tourists is more lucrative, with options like Angkor Wat flyovers and transfers from luxury resorts such as Shinta Mani Wild, Cambodia’s most expensive hotel. Helicopters are also used to enhance the experience of cruise passengers with limited time in the country, allowing them to maximize their sightseeing opportunities and minimize time spent on land transportation.
These services cater to the growing number of affluent tourists seeking personalized and luxurious experiences in Cambodia, further driving the expansion of the helicopter market.
In addition to established helicopter companies like Helicopters Cambodia and Helistar Cambodia, several other smaller operators are entering the market, offering a variety of services and experiences to cater to the diverse needs and preferences of tourists and residents alike. Some of these operators specialize in aerial photography, geological surveying, and support for film and television productions, further expanding the range of helicopter services available in the country.
Obtaining a Helicopter License in Cambodia
While, obtaining a helicopter license in Cambodia currently requires traveling to another jurisdiction Novation Academy is looking to facilitate helicopter license to be obtained locally in the future.
The academy also plans to assist with the purchase and storage of helicopters in Cambodia, further facilitating the growth of the market. Kirill Bratchenko, Managing-Director of Novation, shared their vision to help individuals purchase and find hangar space for private aircraft, with helicopters being a natural extension of their existing services.
Legality and Regulations for Operating a Helicopter in Cambodia
To operate helicopter transportation within Cambodia, a Commercial Air Operations Permit is required from the State Secretariat of Civil Aviation (SSCA), ensuring compliance with safety and training standards. Obtaining this permit involves meeting stringent safety requirements, providing adequate pilot training, and demonstrating operational competence. Consultation for obtaining the permit can be sought from companies like Novation Academy, which not only offers training programs but also provides guidance on navigating the regulatory landscape.
Read more: Need For Local Pilots Set to Rise In Cambodia’s Developing Aviation Industry
Compared to neighboring countries like Vietnam, Cambodia has relatively open skies and a more accommodating regulatory environment, making it a more viable market for those interested in buying, purchasing, or operating helicopters. According to Kirill Bratchenko, Managing-Director of Novation Academy, this favorable regulatory climate has been instrumental in attracting investment and interest in the helicopter market in Cambodia.
Maintenance and Safety Considerations
As the helicopter market in Cambodia grows, so does the need for maintenance and safety services. Several maintenance providers have established operations in the country to cater to the increasing demand for helicopter maintenance, repairs, and safety inspections. These providers not only ensure that helicopters remain in optimal condition but also play a crucial role in maintaining the safety standards required by the SSCA.
Additionally, as more helicopters take to the skies, the need for air traffic control and coordination becomes even more critical. The Cambodian government and aviation authorities are working together to develop and implement systems and procedures to ensure the safe and efficient operation of helicopters and other aircraft within the country’s airspace.
