Great news for those planning to go to Bohol! The new Panglao International Airport is set to open tomorrow and AirAsia is the first to fly there!
The special flight from Manila arrived earlier today with CAAP officials and guests (me included! Hihi)
AirAsia, the World’s Best Low Cost Airline, today flew a special flight from Manila to Panglao International Airport, the Philippines’ newest and first “eco-airport” located in Bohol province.
AirAsia Philippines CEO and pilot Captain Dexter Comendador said, “We are delighted to be finally operating in the new airport that will offer our guest passengers one of the best airport experiences and facilities in the country. Aside from its sustainable and eco-friendly structures, Panglao International Airport provides access to international tourists making Bohol, with its abundant attractions, the next premiere destination in Asia.”
The new airport, according to Philippine government transportation and tourism agencies, was built according to the highest standards of green and sustainable design such as the use of natural ventilation and solar panels. It is also designed to accommodate two million passengers, more than double the capacity of the old Tagbilaran airport. The apron was also engineered to accommodate seven aircraft at one time, including large aircraft for international flights.
To celebrate the new airport’s opening, AirAsia, upon approval from the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP), led a proving flight from Manila to Panglao International Airport using the airline’s brand new Airbus A320 with CAAP officials and guests from the media and online community on board the special flight.
“We are the official airline partner of Bohol Province and tourism organizations for three years in a row through our Behold Bohol project since 2015. We feel strongly about supporting the growth and development of cities outside Metro Manila. We aim to better connect secondary cities or hubs and take Bohol to new heights and rise among the premiere tourist destinations not only in the Philippines but also in the whole of ASEAN, in greater Asia and beyond where the AirAsia Group has massive connectivity.”
“Aside from tourism, trade and business, it brings us so much pride to be Bohol’s official carrier. Boholanons are known for their excellent service culture which is also one of the hallmarks of AirAsia’s brand of service. It’s going to be an exciting time for all of us,” Comendador said in his message to guests onboard the special AirAsia flight.
In addition, Comendador spoke about how the goal is to have three to five flights daily from Manila to Panglao and vice versa. Next year, they target to offer flights to and from Clark as well. For international flights, Macau and Shanghai are top priorities for AirAsia as well as Korea and Japan once Panglao has a fuel depot (for AirAsia to be able to cater longer flights). Exciting times ahead!
Here's a first look at the new Panglao International Airport:
In addition, Comendador spoke about how the goal is to have three to five flights daily from Manila to Panglao and vice versa. Next year, they target to offer flights to and from Clark as well. For international flights, Macau and Shanghai are top priorities for AirAsia as well as Korea and Japan once Panglao has a fuel depot (for AirAsia to be able to cater longer flights). Exciting times ahead!
Here's a first look at the new Panglao International Airport:
Keep updated with AirAsia’s latest promotion and activities via twitter (@AirAsiaFilipino), Facebook (facebook.com/AirAsiaPH) and on Instagram (@AirAsiaFilipino).
