Phnom penh: Cambodia's Techo International Airport has been included among the World's Most Beautiful Airports 2026, according to the list released by Prix Versailles on June 15. The airport, located 20 kilometers south of Phnom Penh, is recognized as a symbol of renewal while also emphasizing its permanence and stability, drawing from a historical title that stands for the invincibility of the Khmer people.
According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, the airport's design features an overarching roof canopy that facilitates short walking distances from the drop-off zone to the boarding areas, coupled with simple orientation. Its modular roof, with an undulating form that crescendos at the center, echoes Cambodia's palaces and temples, creating a harmonious blend of modern architecture and cultural heritage.
The airport's interior design is inspired by traditional basket weaving, appearing woven from bamboo and rattan, which minimizes the need for mechanical ventilation and artificial lighting during daylight hours. Adding to the aesthetic and environmental focus, native rumduol trees, a national symbol, are integrated into the terminal's design, enhancing the passenger journey with greenery.
Foster + Partners, the architectural firm behind the project, has achieved an ecological success by merging cutting-edge technology with a respect for centuries-old heritage, resulting in a bright and airy atmosphere. Techo International Airport's inclusion in the list is a testament to how airports are increasingly embracing unique architectural designs to offer a richer and more harmonious experience.
In addition to Techo International Airport, the 2026 list includes Terminal 3 of Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport in China, Terminal 3 of Frankfurt Airport in Germany, Terminal 2 of Lokapriya Gopinath Bardoloi International Airport in Guwahati, India, Terminal 1 of Navi Mumbai International Airport in India, Pittsburgh International Airport in the United States, and Terminal 1 of San Diego International Airport in the United States. These airports showcase distinctive architecture, moving away from traditional standards.
Furthermore, three airports or terminals from the 2026 list will receive a World Title (Prix Versailles, Interior or Exterior) by the end of the year. The Prix Versailles awards aim to promote intelligent sustainability, emphasizing the role of culture in transcending environmental concerns.
Recently, Techo International Airport was also ranked fifth globally among the world's best new airport terminals by Skytrax under the Skytrax World Airport Awards 2026. Officially inaugurated on October 20, 2020, and operational since September 9, 2025, the airport spans over 2,600 hectares across Kandal and Takeo provinces and is classified as a 4F-level international airport, accommodating all types of aircraft, including the Airbus A380 and Boeing 747.