Airline keeps domestic ops to fly ‘eligible’ travelers

MANILA – Budget carrier AirAsia Philippines on Wednesday said its domestic operations will continue despite a resolution approved by the Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) limiting the mobility of unvaccinated individuals.

Under its Resolution 22-01, series of 2022, the MMDA urged local government units in the National Capital Region (NCR) to issue ordinances barring the unvaccinated and minors from going outside, except for essential activities.

AirAsia said it will continue ferrying fully vaccinated travelers, as well as unvaccinated essential travelers.

“In compliance with the resolution signed by Metro Manila Mayors, we will continue to fly eligible vaccinated individuals and unvaccinated guests with essential travel passes only,” AirAsia Philippines spokesperson Steve Dailisan said in a statement.

He added that the airline remains optimistic of continued strong demand for air travel among vaccinated individuals.

Among the carrier’s mitigation efforts is having all its flight and ground crews fully vaccinated, he said.

On Tuesday, Cebu Pacific (CEB) canceled a number of domestic flights from January 4 to 10.

Both CEB and AirAsia on Wednesday said passengers may avail of flexibility options should they wish to postpone their travel.

Those who have CEB domestic flights from Jan. 5 to 15 may still postpone their flights up to two hours before the supposed scheduled flight.

They can rebook for travel within 60 days or store the booking value to a travel fund valid for two years, it added.

CEB also urged passengers to manage their bookings online, as its ticket office in NAIA Terminal 3 will be closed until further notice.

AirAsia’s passengers, on the other hand, may also manage their bookings online, subject to fare difference.