AirAsia’s local unit gets license to operate

The local unit of Malaysian budget carrier AirAsia on Tuesday received the approval of local aviation regulators to operate as a commercial airline, allowing it to fly passengers from its hub in Clark to domestic and international destinations.

According to company officials, AirAsia will begin flying from the Diosdado Macapagal International Airport to domestic destinations—specifically Davao, Kalibo and Puerto Princesa—by mid-March.

Domestic destinations are being prioritized since the airline does not need to secure the approval of the Civil Aeronautics Board for these routes.

The airline is also set to announce next week its planned international routes, also originating in Clark, subject to the approval of regulators which it has yet to secure.

In a statement, AirAsia Inc. (Philippines) CEO Marianne Hontiveros said the rigid process and requirements required of the airline would “enhance a system of checks and balances to ensure safety conscientiousness” in the Philippine aviation industry.

“Today, we reaffirm our commitment to make air travel more fun, affordable and accessible to all Filipinos,” Hontiveros said. “With Clark, Angeles, Pampanga, as our hub, we look forward to helping revitalize tourism and significantly increase passenger traffic at DMIA.”

AirAsia Inc. Philippines is a 60-40 joint venture between Filipino investors Antonio O. Cojuangco, Michael L. Romero and Hontiveros, and Malaysia’s AirAsia International Ltd., a wholly owned subsidiary of AirAsia Berhad. The parent airline is owned by Malaysian entrepreneur Tony Fernandes.