Air Cambodia: Similarities with THAI uniforms purely coincidental

The brand identity of Air Cambodia (KHV) is uniquely Khmer and rooted in the Kingdom’s rich heritage, the national flag carrier has said, following allegations that its aircraft livery and cabin crew uniforms resemble those of Thailand’s national carrier, Thai Airways (TG).

KHV’s flight attendants’ uniforms have been harshly criticised by Thai netizens for resembling those worn by TG cabin crew.

The Cambodian national airline called the similarities “purely coincidental”, claiming the branding is uniquely Cambodian and developed through an independent and culturally mindful process.

The issues are being hotly debated by Thais on social media, after the Cambodian airline hosted a ceremony to mark the inaugural direct flight between Shenzhen, China and Siem Reap in Cambodia on July 18.

The airline’s flight attendants were in the airline’s uniforms, the colour and style of which are similar to those of TG’s, in the eyes of Thai netizens.

According to the Khmer Times, KHV’s statement said the rebranding of Cambodia Angkor Air to Air Cambodia on January 1 marked a new chapter for the national carrier, while preserving its legacy.

“The airline has kept its logo and signature colours, royal purple and gold, which are symbolic of Cambodian identity…. Air Cambodia’s branding was developed through a deliberate and culturally conscious process, reflecting the Kingdom’s rich heritage and national pride,” the statement reads.

The airline explained the significance of the colour palette, saying purple represents dignity, serenity and devotion, drawing inspiration from traditional Khmer aesthetics, adding that “The distinct shade of purple used in Air Cambodia’s branding is uniquely derived from a balanced integration of the three colours found in Cambodia’s national flag, blue, red and white, in equal proportion.”

This symbolic composition differentiates Air Cambodia’s design from that of any other carrier, read the statement. The airline also stated that the golden emblem and signature purple hue reflect a proud historical lineage, tracing back to 1956 under the national flag carrier’s former name, Royal Air Cambodge.

Air Cambodia said its entire visual identity, from aircraft livery to crew uniforms, was conceived independently and complies with global trademark and intellectual property regulations.

Any perceived similarities with other airlines are purely coincidental and not indicative of imitation, read the statement.

“Air Cambodia maintains a spirit of strategic partnership with and mutual respect for fellow carriers across the region. We are committed to advancing regional aviation growth, through collaboration and cultural exchange,” according to the statement.

“Air Cambodia remains proud of its distinct national identity and will continue to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, cultural integrity and regional cooperation in all aspects of our operations,” it said.