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In 1995, as part of an international tender process, the Royal Government of Cambodia awarded to Société Concessionnaire de l'Aéroport (SCA) full management of Phnom Penh International Airport (PPIA). Initially it was for 20 years but was subsequently extended to 25 years, in 1999. In September 2001, the concession's boundaries were expanded to include Siem Reap-Angkor International Airport (SRAIA).
The use of a BOT contract (Build, Operate, Transfer) for airport infrastructures constitutes an innovative concept. To date, less than 10 years in operation, it has proven to be a successful partnership between SCA and the Cambodian partners.
Meeting Economic and Tourist Development Challenges
From 1995 to 2002, passenger traffic at PPIA has increased by over 50% - from 650,000 to almost one million passengers per annum. For SRAIA, the traffic grew by 30 times - 580,000 in 2002 compared to 20,000 in 1998.
The Cargo rate in Phnom Penh is also very impressive. In 2002, the volume of cargo rose more than 65 percent compared to 2001, reaching 17,000 tons.
In order to sustain the Kingdom's development, especially in the tourism sector, airport infrastructures, through which most exchanges with the world take place, must perform efficiently.
Therefore, SCA has conceived and implemented a full investment program for the design, expansion and renovation of airport facilities and equipment at both airports.
SCA's investment, since 1995, for PPIA totals to more than US$ 100 million - of which US$ 12 million was granted by the French government. In particular, the new passenger terminal, officially inaugurated by the Prime Minister of the Royal Government of Cambodia on May 6, 2003, cost US$ 32 million. It is envisaged that by the end of the contract, a minimum of US$ 200 million will have been spent for the existing two airports.
Up to 2002 at Phnom Penh the following were commissioned: 1) a new 16,000 sqm passenger terminal with a capacity of two million passengers per annum, 2) - a new bespoke and purpose built VIP building intended for Government and diplomatic use, 3) the cargo terminal. Strengthening work of the runway has been undertaken to accommodate long-haul aircraft (such as B747s or A340s), and equipment to reinforce safety and security levels of airport operations has been installed.
At SRAIA, the second major airport in Cambodia, due to its high traffic growth it was necessary to enlarge its facilities, improve the quality of the airport's infrastructure, expand its apron capacity, construct a new domestic terminal building, raise operational standards in conformity to international requirements through funds provided from the Asian Development Bank (ADB). Besides, new airport equipment for ground handling and rescue and fire fighting services has been purchased.
In addition, SCA invests in training and makes its personnel benefit from the best international practices through programs prepared by renowned professionals from Aéroports de Paris (ADP) and Malaysia Airport Berhad. The ISO 9001:2000 certification awarded in May 2003 for cargo operations and ground handling demonstrates the quality of work accomplished each day by the staff of PPIA.
Anticipating Future Needs
In view of the forecast market growth and the Royal Government's own efforts to expand its tourism industry, new projects are planned. SCA has already safeguarded provisions and investments for the period 2003-06 to meet the airports' forecast growth.
In Phnom Penh, the main construction site during the last quarter of 2003 will significantly expand the cargo terminal to more than 1,750 sqm. This will double the current cargo capability. In 2004, the runway will be widened by 40 to 45 metres to be in line with the recommendations of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and to accommodate category D and E aircraft.
At SRAIA, in 2003-2004, a new taxiway of 700 metres will be built and plans are underway for the construction of a new terminal building, scheduled to be completed in 2005-06. The new terminal will then meet the projected demands of 1,4 million passengers per annum. The apron area will also be enlarged to meet the projected operational demands.
Moreover, the SCA is going to increase its participation in initiatives designed to enhance the tourist site of Angkor, which will translate in assistance to improve reception infrastructures and the funding of ad hoc studies. The company also has brought its support to Artisans d'Angkor , which develops the production and sale of craft objects and silk materials. |
