AirAsia to increase flights in Mindanao

MINDANAO, Philippines — Budget carrier AirAsia Philippines is beefing up its service in Mindanao as part of its domestic network expansion this year.

AirAsia will resume flights from Clark and Cebu to Zamboanga, its fourth destination in Mindanao, on March 29, the company’s top official said yesterday.

“Our newest route cements AirAsia’s connections among the country’s major islands: Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao,” AirAsia Philippines chief executive officer Ricky Isla said.

Located at the southernmost tip of the Zamboanga peninsula, Zamboanga is a highly developed and urbanized city, which managed to preserve most of its cultural heritage, serene landscapes and beaches.

AirAsia’s destinations in Mindanao include Davao and Cagayan de Oro, which started operations in 2015 and 2018, respectively.

Earlier this week, the airline announced the commencement of its flights to General Santos from Clark and Cebu on March 29.

Isla said AirAsia’s new flight offerings would boost local tourism and the economy.

General Santos and Zamboanga are among the first of the new destinations being targeted for launch by Air-Asia this year.

The firm operates 24 aircraft in more than 500 weekly domestic and international flights from Manila, Clark, Cebu and Kalibo.

The family of Rep. Michael “Mikee” Romero, through F&S Holdings, owns 60 percent of AirAsia Inc., operator of AirAsia Philippines.

The remaining 40 percent is still owned by Air Asia Bhd founders Tony Fernandez and Datuk Karmarudin Menarum.