Local airlines adjusting flights to Boracay after six-month closure announced

April 5, 2018

Local airline companies have adjusted their flights to Boracay after the government decided to temporary close the island for six months starting April 26.

Philippine Airlines said it will scale down its services to Caticlan and Kalibo airports for a six-month period beginning late April.

PAL will operate nine  weekly flights between Manila and Kalibo and seven weekly flights between Manila and Caticlan to maintain links to these gateways to Boracay and Aklan province.

“Sustainable development is of critical concern, and we are one with the laudable goal to revert the island to a balanced eco-tourism paradise. We seek the understanding of our passengers as your flag carrier and the aviation industry cooperate in this multi-sectoral endeavor. In the long-term, a safe and revitalized Boracay will benefit all stakeholders in the travel and tourism sectors, and the Filipino people as a whole,” said PAL President Jaime Bautista.

In a separate statement, Cebu Pacific said it will cancel  flights to and from Caticlan and Kalibo, in Aklan from April 26 to October 27.

To serve local residents and ensure trade in the Northern Panay island, Cebu Pacific will operate a number of flights for Kalibo and Caticlan from April 26 to October 27.

"Cebu Pacific is in the process of informing passengers affected by the flight cancellations. Affected passengers may manage their rebooking or refunds,” Cebu Pacific said.

AirAsia Philippines said the temporary closure of Boracay would have a minimal impact to its operation.

"The impact of Boracay closure on our operation is almost insignificant compared to its effect on our guests, especially those who have saved up their money to be able travel this summer, which is why our focus is on assisting them and providing them with flexible options so as not to disrupt their holiday plans,” Dexter Comendador, AirAsia Philippines chief executive, said.

"We are adding several flights to Cebu, Davao, Palawan, Bohol, Iloilo, and other leisure destinations for our guests to choose from,” he added. DMS