Thai–Cambodian Conflict Displaces Thousands, Air Travel Unaffected

On July 24, 2025, armed conflict erupted along the Thailand–Cambodia border, with rocket and artillery exchanges near temples like Ta Muen Thom and Ta Krabey.

At least 40 people have died (including military and civilian), and between 130,000 and 260,000 have been displaced across both countries. A fragile ceasefire took effect on 28 July.

The US and Canadian authorities urge travelers to avoid areas within 50 km of the border, which includes provinces like Buriram, Si Saket, Surin, Ubon Ratchathani, Chanthaburi, Trat, Preah Vihear, and Oddar Meanchey.

Land crossings between Thailand and Cambodia have been closed. The Tourism Authority of Thailand is warning of possible fallout beyond affected provinces.

Despite this, popular tourist destinations away from the border, such as Bangkok, Phuket, Chiang Mai, and Angkor Wat, are open and unaffected.

Air travel remains uninterrupted: Major airports in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, Phnom Penh, and Siem Reap are operating.

While the conflict along the Thailand–Cambodia border has caused local disruption, its overall impact on travel has been relatively limited compared to the Iran–Israel conflict earlier this summer, which led to the cancellation or rerouting of hundreds of international flights.

Cover photo by Markus Winkler on Unsplash