Cambodia’s newly built Techo International Airport has been named one of the World’s Most Beautiful Airports of 2026 by the Prix Versailles, making it the only airport from Southeast Asia to earn a place on the prestigious global architecture list.
The annual Prix Versailles awards recognize outstanding architectural achievements around the world. The 2026 airport winners were announced on Monday, with Techo International Airport joining six other terminals and airports from Asia, Europe and the United States.
“Whether newly built or extensively renovated, contemporary airports and airport terminals are innovative landmarks that have become inseparable from their regions and their era,” Prix Versailles Secretary-General Jerome Gouadain said in a statement published on the organization’s website on Thursday.
Located in Taprum Village, Boeng Khyang Commune, Kandal Stung District in Kandal Province, about 20 kilometers south of Phnom Penh, Techo International Airport serves as Cambodia’s newest primary international gateway.
The airport takes its name from a royal title historically bestowed upon Khmer heroes more than 500 years ago, symbolizing the resilience and strength of the Cambodian people. According to the airport’s official website, it is intended to serve as the country’s principal gateway, linking the Kingdom of Cambodia with destinations around the world.
Covering approximately 2,600 hectares, the airport is expected to become one of the world’s largest aviation hubs. During its first phase of development, it is designed to accommodate up to 15 million passengers annually.
The airport currently operates international services connecting Cambodia with Macau, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Guangzhou, Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport, Dubai and Seoul, along with inbound flights from those destinations.
Prix Versailles praised the airport’s architectural concept, highlighting its expansive roof canopy designed to minimize walking distances between passenger drop-off areas and departure halls while providing intuitive navigation throughout the terminal.
The modular roof features a sweeping wave-like design that rises toward the center of the building, drawing inspiration from Cambodia’s historic palaces and temples. Inside, the ceiling reflects traditional woven basket craftsmanship and is designed to resemble bamboo and rattan, reducing the need for mechanical ventilation and artificial lighting during daylight hours.
Natural elements also play a central role in the passenger experience. A towering central atrium features native rumduol trees, Cambodia’s national flower, creating a green focal point within the terminal.
Techo International Airport also offers premium passenger facilities, including fast-track immigration services, airport lounges, restaurants and retail outlets.
Alongside Cambodia’s newest gateway, Prix Versailles selected six other airports and terminals for its 2026 list: Terminal 3 at Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport in China, Terminal 3 at Frankfurt Airport in Germany, Terminal 2 at Lokapriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati, India, Terminal 1 at Navi Mumbai International Airport in India, Pittsburgh International Airport in the United States and Terminal 1 at San Diego International Airport in the United States.
Later this year, Prix Versailles will announce which three of the seven winners will receive its highest honors, including the World Titles for overall architecture, interior design and exterior design.
