PAL Shifts Turboprop Flights from Manila to Clark, Cebu Hubs

PAL Shifts Turboprop Flights from Manila to Clark, Cebu Hubs

By Bing Jabadan –TheNationWeek.Com  l   August 4, 2025

MANILA, Philippines – Philippine Airlines (PAL) is set to realign its turboprop operations, transferring select domestic routes from the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) in Manila to Clark International Airport (CRK) in Pampanga and Mactan-Cebu International Airport in Cebu starting Oct. 26.

The move, mandated by the government, aims to decongest NAIA and enhance regional connectivity.

It will also see PAL expanding its flight offerings from both Clark and Cebu, transforming them into alternative hubs for domestic travel.

Clark Takes Flight

Flights between Clark and Busuanga (Coron) as well as Clark and Basco will now be twice daily.

The Clark-Basco route will effectively replace the existing Manila-Basco service.

Daily flights between Clark and Siargao will continue uninterrupted.

Cebu Gains Momentum

Flights from Cebu to both Busuanga and Siargao will increase to three times daily.

A new route from Cebu to Calbayog will be launched, operating four times weekly.

The Cebu-Calbayog service will replace the current Manila-Calbayog flights, with passengers from Manila able to connect via Cebu.

While PAL will reduce frequencies on turboprop flights from Manila to popular destinations like Siargao and Busuanga, it will maintain daily flights to preserve crucial air links for Metro Manila residents and international connecting passengers.

The airline will also retain its current schedule of three weekly flights between Manila and Antique (San Jose), as well as four weekly flights between Manila and Catarman.

“We are committed to a smooth transition and appreciate the understanding of our passengers as we collaborate with aviation authorities, industry stakeholders, and local government units,” said PAL Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Carlos Luis Fernandez.

“This network realignment allows us to serve our passengers more efficiently. By strengthening Cebu and Clark as alternative hubs, we are building a more reliable and sustainable domestic network for the long term.”

The government’s initiative to relocate turboprop operations out of Manila began earlier this year with an initial 30 percent flight reduction.

PAL assured the public that it would provide regular updates and comprehensive assistance to address any flight-related concerns during the transition period.

Passengers are encouraged to visit the PAL website for more information.