Bill renewing PAL Express franchise for another 25 years lapses into law

The measure renewing the franchise of Air Philippines Corp. for another 25 years lapsed into law on April 11, 2022 after President Rodrigo Duterte failed to act on it on time.

Republic Act No. 11682 grants a franchise to Air Philippines “to establish, operate, and maintain domestic and international air transport services, including the maintenance and operation of hangars, and aircraft service stations and facilities, and other services related to aircraft transportation for another 25 years.”

The measure also requires Air Philippines to secure appropriate certificates, permits, and licenses from the Civil Aeronautics Board and Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines for its operations.

Air Philippines operates as PAL Express, a wholly owned subsidiary of flag carrier Philippine Airlines.

A proposed measure lapses into law if the President neither signs nor vetoes it within 30 days from receipt in his office.

"The approval of the Air Philippines franchise by both houses of Congress and Malacañang is a welcome affirmation of the government's confidence in our airline's capability to address the air transport needs of the flying public,” PAL Express said in a statement.

“We are grateful for their trust, and we pledge to continue working together with our stakeholder partners to help shape the growth of Philippine aviation,” it added.

The airline assured the public that it will continue to uphold the highest standards of safety and service as we transport people and cargo across our extensive route network. —AOL/RSJ, GMA News