Air Cambodia dismisses allegations of copying Thai Airways' uniform design

The national airline of Cambodia issued a statement on Tuesday, affirming that its brand carries a strong national identity, developed through an independent process that respects Khmer culture, Khmer Times reported.

This statement came after the airline unveiled new uniforms for its flight attendants, featuring a purple color, for its inaugural direct flight connecting Shenzhen, China, to Siem Reap, starting on July 18.

The purple color of the aircraft and the flight attendants' uniforms drew attention in Thailand, with many people claiming that the colors resembled those of Thai Airways.

Air Cambodia flight attendants in purple uniforms. Photo courtesy of Air Cambodia

On social media, many users broadly condemned Air Cambodia's branding for closely resembling Thai Airways, according to The Nation. Some accused Air Cambodia of "copying" the national airline of Thailand.

In its response, Air Cambodia said any similarities to Thai Airways' branding were "purely coincidental," as reported by Khmer Times.

The Cambodian national airline stated that it had kept its logo and the characteristic purple and gold colors intact after rebranding, while still wishing to preserve the airline's heritage. Earlier this year, the airline changed its name from Cambodia Angkor Air to Air Cambodia.

According to Air Cambodia, purple symbolizes "dignity, serenity, and devotion, drawing inspiration from traditional Khmer aesthetics."

"The distinct shade of purple used in Air Cambodia's branding is uniquely derived from a balanced integration of the three colors found in Cambodia's national flag - blue, red, and white - in equal proportion."

Thai Airways flight attendant uniforms. Photo courtesy of Thai Airways

Sinn Chanserey Vutha, the secretary of state and spokesperson for the State Secretariat of Civil Aviation (SSCA), told Phnom Penh Post that he had noticed recent social media discussions pointing out similarities between the airline's aircraft livery and cabin crew uniforms and those of another regional carrier.

"Considering this, we wish to offer the following official clarification, rooted in transparency, respect, and professionalism. Air Cambodia's branding was developed through a deliberate and culturally conscious process, reflecting the Kingdom's rich heritage and national pride.

"Following our rebranding from Cambodia Angkor Air to Air Cambodia Co., Ltd. on Jan. 1, 2025, we have retained our legacy logo and signature colours — royal purple and gold — which are deeply symbolic," he said.