Qatar Airways’ inaugural flight to c touched down in the capital Phnom Penh earlier to further extend the airline’s reach in Asia Pacific.

With the launch of daily scheduled services, Qatar Airways becomes the only Middle Eastern airline flying to the south-east Asian nation – and destination number 125 served worldwide.

Flight QR602 arrived to a traditional water salute followed by a grand airport ceremony featuring colourful Cambodian dancers.

Guests gathered at Phonm Penh International Airport in celebration of the new air link, connecting Cambodia with scores of destinations across Europe, Middle East, Africa, North America and South America.

Qatar Airways chief executive Akbar Al Baker was joined on the inaugural flight direct from the carrier’s Doha hub by His Excellency Long Kem, ambassador, Royal Embassy of Cambodia to the State of Kuwait and responsible for Qatar, together with international media.

Al Baker said the latest route by the award-winning airline opened up a great new market for business and leisure travellers from around the world, while at the same time opening up air access from Cambodia to destinations worldwide.

“I take this opportunity to thank the Cambodian Government and local airport authorities for their great support in helping us launch daily flights to this wonderful country,” he said.

“Though Cambodia is one of the fastest growing economies in South East Asia, it has an air travel market that is highly underserved.

“Qatar Airways is here to fill this void and we look forward to working with the travel trade and our business partners to make this a hugely successful operation.

“We are sure Cambodian travellers will be highly impressed with Qatar Airways’ award-winning hospitality.”