National
Cambodia Files Strong Protest Over Thai Military Helicopter Incursion
PHNOM PENH, September 4, 2026 – The Royal Government of Cambodia has lodged a formal and strong protest against Thailand for an unauthorized military helicopter incursion into Cambodian airspace, calling it a clear violation of its sovereignty and territorial integrity.
According to a press release from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, a Thai military helicopter crossed approximately 400 metres into Cambodian airspace near the Doung International Border Checkpoint in Kamrieng district, Battambang province, on September 3.
Cambodia stated that the incursion violates Article 1 of the 1944 Chicago Convention on International Civil Aviation, which affirms that every state has complete and exclusive sovereignty over the airspace above its territory, and Article 3(c) of the same convention, which prohibits state aircraft from flying over the territory of another state without authorization. The action also contravenes Point 6 of the de-escalation measures outlined in the Joint Statement of the 3rd Special Meeting of the General Border Committee (GBC), signed on December 27, 2025.
The Royal Government demanded that Thailand immediately cease such activities and respect its commitments to de-escalation, mutual trust, and the peaceful resolution of disputes. Cambodia reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to resolving border issues peacefully and maintaining peace between the two countries.
— Source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation
Reported by The Khmer Today
