AirAsia makes Clark its main hub in Phl

MANILA, Philippines — Philippines AirAsia Inc. is making Clark its main hub due to congestion at the country’s main international gateway in Manila.

As Clark is being positioned as its main hub, the carrier said the government has granted its request to waive airport, landing and navigational fees for at least five years at the airport, Philippines AirAsia chief executive officer Dexter Comendador said.

Comendador said the decision to make Clark its main hub is due to the lack of slots at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA).

“We plan to establish Clark as our main hub. Manila is too crowded,” Comendador said.

Philippines AirAsia resumed operations at the Clark Airport last March 27, when it launched the service to Kalibo to cater to passengers going to tourist destination Boracay.

The carrier first launched commercial flights from Clark in 2012.

It moved its hub in Manila following a strategic partnership with a local airline in 2013.

The carrier, which is looking to increase its fleet to 24 aircraft by next year from 17 by the end of this year, intends to launch new flights from the Clark International Airport.

Comendador said Philippines AirAsia plans to start flying to destinations in South Korea, China, Malaysia, Singapore, as well as to Hong Kong, Macau and Taipei from Clark by next year.

The government is developing the Clark International Airport as it is being positioned as an alternative to the congested NAIA.