Singapore Airlines keen on Philippines expansion

MANILA, Philippines – Singapore Airlines is keen on expanding its operations in the Philippines given the country’s favorable economic prospects, but the government will have to address congestion in Manila’s airport and develop infrastructure for the aviation industry, an official said.

Philip Goh, regional vice president for South East Asia at Singapore Airlines, told reporters the carrier would like to expand its operations in the Philippines by offering more flights but is unable to do so due to infrastructure constraints.

“Where there are opportunities, we want to grow our services into the Philippines,” he said.

The carrier currently has four daily flights on the Manila to Singapore route, while its sister airline SilkAir has services to Cebu, Davao and Kalibo.

“We have been trying to increase our frequency from four daily (flights) to five daily for a number of years now but there’s no more slots. Until such time slots are available, we are constrained,” Goh said.

He said the carrier is also interested in operating in other areas.

To expand its operations in the Philippines, the carrier would have to wait until the government is able to put in place the necessary infrastructure.

Goh said the carrier supports the development of a new airport in Manila.

“Anything that allows us to expand to a fifth daily route is welcome,” he said.

The government is looking into the development of a new international airport in Manila to address the growing number of passengers served by the Ninoy Aquino International Airport.

“I think the biggest constraint to growth in this area would be infrastructure...If facilities are there already, I think the market will take off,” Goh said.

The Philippines is an important market for Singapore Airlines as the country is among the fastest growing economies in the region.

Goh said the Philippines’ tourism appeal also makes it an important market for the carrier.