Philippines eyes additional flights for local carriers

MANILA, Philippines - Following the signing of Asean air protocols, the Philippine government is working to get local carriers additional flights in the next six months to give Filipinos better access and more flight options to destinations in Southeast Asia.

In a statement yesterday, the Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) said it is working with the Civil Aeronautics Board to assist Philippine air carriers to secure additional flight schedules with each of the nine other member states of the Asean. 

The government wants to have new flights operational within the next six months.

“This will enhance regional trade and investment opportunities for Philippine businesses looking to expand their markets. It will also provide better access to Filipino individuals, such as professionals and students who wish to explore job and educational opportunities in the Asean region,” Transportation Secretary Joseph Emilio Abaya said.

Abaya said gains in the local tourism and service industries are also seen as the agreement allows foreign airlines to increase their flights to Manila and other cities as well. 

“Just as it will encourage more visitors to come to the country, Filipinos will also enjoy a wider array of flight options and ticket prices to the rest of the Asean,” he said.

Last Feb. 3, President Aquino signed Protocols 5 and 6 of the Asean Multilateral Agreement in Air Services (MAAS), allowing Philippine air carriers to fly unlimited frequencies to and beyond the capital cities of other Asean nations, leading to efficient connectivity and more competitive fares and services.

The MAAS is part of the Asean Roadmap for Integration of Air Transportation Services which sets the foundation for the envisioned Asean single aviation market to foster seamless connectivity within the region.

The ratification of Protocols 5 and 6 of the MAAS shows the Philippines’ commitment to the realization of the single aviation market, and in creating a unified Asean Economic Community with an efficient and fully-integrated transport network.