AirAsia PH sees foreign tourist influx

AirAsia Philippines is nearly doubling domestic flights in March while preparing for the influx of foreign tourists after government restrictions were further relaxed.

In a statement on Tuesday, the low-cost carrier said destinations such as Clark, Cebu, Cagayan de Oro, Caticlan, Davao, General Santos, Iloilo, Kalibo, Tagbilaran (Panglao), Puerto Princesa, Tacloban and Zamboanga have started to accept fully vaccinated foreign visitors with their vaccination cards as entry requirement.

It added that partially vaccinated tourists would be allowed entry provided they submit a negative RT-PCR test result.

Enticing months

“We are thrilled about the latest development, as the months of March, April and May are enticing months for foreign travelers especially those who love tropical islands and diving destinations,” AirAsia Philippines spokesperson Steve Dailisan said in a statement.

“The much anticipated foreign arrivals will likely jump-start our tourism industry as we move forward toward postpandemic recovery,” he added.

AirAsia Philippines also announced a significant increase in flight frequencies next month to cater to more international visitors.

It said flights to Caticlan would increase to 34 times weekly, Iloilo to 14 times weekly, Tacloban to 24 times weekly and Panglao to 14 times weekly.

The carrier would also boost Puerto Princesa flights to nine times weekly, Bacolod to 14 times weekly, Davao to 11 times weekly, Cagayan de Oro to 9 times weekly, Kalibo to 11 times weekly and Cebu to 21 times weekly.

2 new routes

AirAsia Philippines is also set to open two new routes: Dumaguete in April and Roxas in June. Outbound travelers can also fly to Bangkok and Bali next month and Incheon in April. AirAsia Philippines has existing flights to Singapore and Hong Kong.

“The increase in our flight frequency is part of our commitment to make sure that we will be able to prop up and support the demand toward summer,” Dailisan said.

“Part of the overall hassle-free journey of our guests is the choices in flight schedules which fit their itinerary on top of the hotels and activities which they can find exclusively under Super App’s SNAP,” he added. ­

—Miguel R. Camus INQ
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