Philippine Airlines (PAL) is working to transfer a number of its turboprop-operated domestic routes away from Manila’s Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA).
Beginning 26th October of this year, such operations will be moved to Clark International Airport in Central Luzon and Mactan Cebu International Airport in the Visayas.
The shift is in compliance with the national government’s mandate to transfer turboprop operations to other airports.
In light of the upcoming changes, airline executive vice-president and chief operating officer Carlos Luis Fernandez said: “We seek the cooperation and understanding of the flying public as we work closely with aviation authorities, industry stakeholders and local government units to ensure a smooth transition. This network realignment allows us to serve our passengers more efficiently. By strengthening Cebu and Clark as alternative hubs, we are building a more reliable and sustainable domestic network for the long term."
The government’s mandate to transfer most turboprop operations out of Manila began with an initial 30 percent reduction of flights just last March.
Expanded offerings
As part of this transition, PAL will expand its flight offerings from both Clark and Cebu.
Services between Clark and Busuanga, as well as Clark and Basco, will increase to twice daily, while Clark–Siargao flights will continue to operate daily.
In time, the Clark-Basco operations will replace the Manila-Basco route.
From Cebu, flights to Busuanga and Siargao will be increased to three times daily.
In addition, PAL will launch a new route from Cebu to Calbayog, with flights operating four times weekly.
This Cebu–Calbayog service will replace the Manila-Calbayog flights.
Passengers flying out of Manila can still opt to connect via Cebu to Calbayog.
PAL turboprop flights from Manila to the key holiday destinations of Siargao and Busuanga (Coron) will continue, but with reduced frequencies.
This ensures the preservation of essential air links for Greater Manila residents and passengers connecting from international flights via PAL’s Manila hub. Both routes will be served with daily flights.
The flag carrier will also maintain its current schedule of three weekly flights between Manila and Antique (San Jose), as well as its four weekly flights between Manila and Catarman.
