Manila: Flag carrier Philippine Airlines (PAL) announced on Friday the gradual transfer of turboprop-operated flights from the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) to Clark and Cebu starting Oct. 26. The move aligns with the aviation authorities' strategy to relocate turboprop operations to other airports.

According to Philippines News Agency, the resolution for this transition was issued on Dec. 3, 2024, by the Manila Slot Coordination Committee. This committee includes key figures such as the Undersecretary for Aviation and Airports and the respective chiefs of the Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA), Civil Aeronautics Board (CAB), Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP), and New NAIA Infra Corp. General Manager.

MIAA General Manager Eric Ines explained that the initial transfer would begin with 30 percent of turboprops starting March 2025, with plans to complete the transition by the last Sunday of March 2026. "The extension was made to give more time for passengers to adjust," Ines stated.

As part of the transition, PAL, led by the Tan group, will enhance its flight operations from both Clark and Cebu. Services between Clark and Busuanga, and Clark and Basco, will increase to twice daily. Additionally, Clark-Siargao flights will continue to operate daily. The Clark-Basco service will replace the existing Manila-Basco route.

From Cebu, flights to Busuanga and Siargao will be increased to three times daily. PAL will also introduce a new route from Cebu to Calbayog, with flights operating four times weekly, replacing the current Manila-Calbayog flights. Passengers departing from Manila can still connect via Cebu to Calbayog.

While PAL's turboprop flights from Manila to Siargao and Busuanga (Coron) will continue, they will operate with reduced frequencies to maintain essential air links for Greater Manila residents and international passengers connecting through PAL's Manila hub. Both routes will offer daily flights.

The airline will also sustain its schedule of three weekly flights between Manila and Antique (San Jose) and four weekly flights between Manila and Catarman. PAL Chief Operating Officer Carlos Luis Fernandez emphasized the need for public cooperation and understanding as the airline collaborates with aviation authorities, industry stakeholders, and local government units to ensure a seamless transition.