The heartfelt initiative also supports “Visit Siem Reap Year 2024” to inspire Cambodians from all walks of life to embrace air travel

PHNOM PENH, 19 August 2024 – AirAsia Cambodia has announced a heartfelt Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative, "Every Cambodian Can Fly" dedicated to sharing the joy of flying to those who have never had the opportunity before. As part of a commitment to making air travel accessible for everyone, the initiative will see 75 underprivileged children from five orphanage centres across Cambodia taking to the skies for the very first time.

The children were flown to Siem Reap, Cambodia’s historic cultural heartland. Upon arrival, they embarked on an enriching day that included a tour of the majestic Angkor Wat Temple, lunch at Wat Preah Prom Rath, and an exploration of the Angkor Wildlife and Aquarium. After a day filled with discovery and joy, the group boarded their evening flight back to Phnom Penh.

This initiative not only aims to inspire confidence and spark a sense of adventure among all Cambodians but also plays a vital role in supporting Prime Minister Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet’s “Visit Siem Reap Year 2024” campaign. Whilst, the programme empowers these children with knowledge and enriches their lives, the initiative is also aimed at bolstering the campaign’s efforts to enhance tourism and celebrate the region’s rich heritage by showcasing Siem Reap’s unique appeal to a wider audience.

In addition to giving these children a memorable experience, this initiative sets the stage for a larger movement to make air travel a more integral part of Cambodian life. The initiative not only highlights AirAsia Cambodia’s commitment to community engagement but also signals the beginning of broader efforts to increase accessibility and familiarity with air travel across the country. This first flight symbolises the start of a journey that could inspire countless Cambodians to explore new horizons.

Vissoth Nam, CEO of AirAsia Cambodia said: “We are proud to launch this meaningful CSR initiative, which not only gives the underprivileged children their first experience of flying but also supports the ‘Visit Siem Reap Year 2024’ campaign. In addition to giving these children a memorable experience, this initiative highlights the importance of our domestic network, demonstrating the ability to connect key destinations across the country. This is more than just a flight, it is a testament to AirAsia Cambodia’s dedication to making a positive impact on the communities we serve. Our vision is to make air travel accessible for everyone, and this is a significant step towards achieving that goal.

“We are also humbled by the support of our partners and the presence of Lok Chumteav Hor Sayon, Committee Member of the Cambodian Red Cross Siem Reap Branch and the High Representative of Lok Chumteav Tuy Chi Prak Sophoan, Vice Chairman of the Cambodia Red Cross Siem Reap Branch, whose involvement further enriches the initiative’s impact.”

The CSR initiative was brought to life with the invaluable support of esteemed partners, including the Cambodian Red Cross, Cambodia Airport, IBC, Burger King, Angkor Wildlife and Aquarium, Almond Hospitality, and Steung Siem Reap Hotel, Siem Reap. These organisations and individuals played a crucial role in making this initiative a reality, sharing AirAsia Cambodia’s commitment to enriching the lives of these children and the communities they represent.