Cambodia’s helicopter tourism sector is set to soar to new heights as Bell Textron explores opportunities in the market, positioning its Bell 505 as a suitable option for the country’s growing demand in this area.
During a three-day test flight of the five-seater aircraft in Phnom Penh, Bell demonstration pilot Sean Mah said that Cambodia’s economic growth and rising interest in premium travel make it a strong candidate for the introduction of the Bell 505. He noted that the aircraft could help connect key tourism sites such as Siem Reap and Phnom Penh in under two hours, provide transport to private islands, support scenic flights, and offer access to remote resorts. The helicopter can travel up to 300 nautical miles in approximately four hours.
Mah pointed out that a growth in demand for VIP and executive travel in the Kingdom also contributed to Bell’s decision.
He noted: “This is a modern, single-engine helicopter that Cambodia can use for tourism, but is also great for corporate transport to get from A to B, especially to remote areas or places that aren’t serviced by commercial airliners.”
Since its launch in 2017, more than 100 Bell 505 units have been delivered across the Asia-Pacific region, including to Malaysia, South Korea, Japan, Indonesia, Australia and New Zealand.
Cambodia’s helicopter tourism market is currently served by Helistar Cambodia, Helicopters Cambodia and Helitop Aviation.
