Foster + Partners Designs Cambodia’s Most Ambitious Airport

Located around 20 kilometres south of Phnom Penh, Techo International Airport marks a significant shift in how large-scale infrastructure is conceived in Southeast Asia. Designed by Foster + Partners, the airport is envisioned as a climate-responsive, landscape-driven terminal that prioritises passenger comfort while significantly reducing environmental impact. From the outset, Foster + Partners positions the project as a long-term investment in sustainable aviation rather than a purely monumental gateway.

The terminal architecture draws inspiration from Cambodia’s vernacular forms and tropical environment. A vast vaulted canopy defines the main building, creating a sense of openness while functioning as a key passive design element. Extensive planting, both inside and around the terminal, reinforces the connection between architecture and landscape, softening the scale of the infrastructure and improving the microclimate for travellers.

Passive Design as a Core Strategy

At the heart of Techo International Airport’s design is a commitment to passive environmental strategies. The terminal’s expansive roof provides deep shading, limiting direct solar gain and reducing reliance on mechanical cooling systems. Carefully calibrated openings allow natural daylight to penetrate deep into the interior, minimising artificial lighting during daytime operations.

Natural ventilation plays a major role in regulating internal temperatures, supported by the building’s generous volumes and high ceilings. Combined with efficient building services, these strategies help lower overall energy demand. Foster + Partners describe the airport as one of the most sustainable in the region, even in its first operational phase, with performance set to improve as later phases are completed.

Efficient Passenger Flow and Clear Orientation

Beyond environmental performance, the airport is designed around clarity of movement and intuitive navigation. The layout consists of a central terminal flanked by two piers, their forms subtly referencing aircraft wings. Clear sightlines and logical sequencing guide passengers smoothly from landside to airside, reducing congestion and stress during peak travel periods.

The first phase, which includes the main terminal and northern pier, opened in September and is designed to handle up to 13 million passengers annually. The spatial organisation supports high-capacity operations without sacrificing legibility, ensuring that even first-time visitors can orient themselves quickly within the vast structure.

A Phased Vision for the Future

Techo International Airport is planned as a multi-phase development responding to Cambodia’s long-term growth. The second phase, scheduled for completion in 2030, will expand capacity to approximately 30 million passengers per year. This phased approach allows sustainability strategies, landscape systems, and operational efficiencies to evolve alongside increasing demand.

By integrating architecture, climate, and passenger experience, Foster + Partners demonstrate how airports can move beyond energy-intensive typologies. Techo International Airport positions Cambodia on the global aviation map with an infrastructure project that balances ambition with environmental responsibility, reinforcing Foster + Partners’ reputation for shaping forward-looking transport architecture.

Technical Sheet