Just 20 kilometres south of inner-city Phnom Penh, the new Techo International Airport has opened its doors. Designed by Foster + Partners, the terminal building draws on the vernacular forms and verdant natural landscape of Cambodia. The project aims to set new standards in aviation, the architects noting that—while not yet complete—it is already one of the most sustainable airports in the region. It combines passive design strategies with extensive planting and efficient flows to enhance traveller comfort, all while reducing the environmental impact of the monumental new building. 
New forms herald a new era for travel
The building comprises a central terminal and two piers with forms reminiscent of aeroplane wings. The first phase of the project—the terminal building and northern pier—opened to the public in September this year, and is expected to handle 13 million passengers; the second phase will open in 2030, with capacity predicted to reach 30 million that year. The terminal is designed with flow in mind: prioritising efficient transit, clear sightlines and simple orientation to enable passengers to navigate the space with ease.
A modular vaulted canopy guides light and airflow
The building is constructed from a lightweel steel grid, its entry hall—which houses passenger processing, security, immigration checks and retail spaces—is defined by large windows and a dramatic vaulted ceiling that takes its aesthetic cues from traditional Khmer palaces and temples. The undulating roof stretches from the drop off point to the runway, its monumental form supported by columns—inspired by tree trunks—each rising to a height of 36 metres.
Inside, the ceiling is finished with a lattice soffit inspired by the woven shapes of Cambodian baskets. This design adds visual interest and helps evenly diffuse the natural light chanelled into the hall through 180 separate skylights. This reduces the need for artificial lighting throughout the day, and creates a more comfortable and naturally attuned space. At night, the hall is illuminated with warm lighting that is integrated into the soffit.
Shaped by green spaces and national heritage
The site is home to a preexisting lake and a new public park landscaped to support local biodiversity and create a place of respite for travellers. To protect the existing ecosystem that surrounds the terminal, an extensive water management strategy was put into place before any construction began. The green of the surrounding landscape seeps into the building, where extensive native planting creates a living atmosphere that helps to regulate interior temperatures. At the heart of the terminal, clusters of Romduol trees—from which the national flower blooms—stretch towards the ceiling.
References to place continue with unique woven infills of the flooring alongside 200 hand-crafted sculptures and a bronze-cast Buddha.The terminal forms part of Foster + Partner's airport-city masterplan, which also incorporates a high-speed rail link designed minimise traffic alongside publicly accessible green spaces. The architects explain that, through merging environmental strategies with operational efficiency and functional design, the project aspires to be one of the “greenest airports in the world.”
