PAL, AirAsia prepare for resumption of flights in June

Philippine local carriers are now preparing for the possible resumption of commercial operations by June as air travel restrictions are seen to relax following Metro Manila and other areas’ transition to general community quarantine (GCQ) next month.

This, after Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade announced Thursday that the Department of Transportation (DOTr) will allow domestic air operation from GCQ to GCQ areas.

“Philippine Airlines welcomes the opportunity to resume regular commercial operations following the Philippine government decision to upgrade certain areas of the country, including the National Capital Region (Metro Manila), to General Community Quarantine (GCQ) status starting June 1,” PAL spokesperson Cielo Villaluna said.

“PAL is closely coordinating with local and national government authorities on the necessary implementing rules and arrangements to finalize our routes and flight schedules,” Villaluna said.

The public will be informed once routes and flights are finalized, she said.

For his part, AirAsia Philippines communications head David de Castro said the budget carrier is planning to gradually resume domestic operations by June.

“We are currently checking with aviation authorities and respective LGUs for their own guidelines regarding the opening of local airports, as some may still possibly be closed in June,” De Castro said.

“We advise guests to check our website, airasia.com, for available flights,” he said.

Metro Manila, Davao City, Pangasinan, Albay, Cagayan Valley, Central Luzon, Calabarzon will shift to GCQ on June 1.

Luzon has been placed under enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) from March 16 to May 15, a measure that prohibited mass gathering to prevent COVID-19 transmission, resulting in work stoppage in many industries.

The ECQ was extended in several areas including Metro Manila on April 12, April 30, May 15 and ultimately May 31.—AOL, GMA News