In the face of soaring fuel costs, AirAsia Philippines is taking proactive steps to ensure that travel remains accessible and enjoyable for passengers, particularly as the summer season draws to a close.
Despite the sustained imposition of a Level 6 fuel surcharge over the past three months, which has seen an increase ranging from PHP185 to PHP665 for domestic flights and PHP610.37 to PHP949.51 for international flights purchased between 01 to 30 May 2024, AirAsia Philippines is committed to mitigating its impact. Notably, tickets purchased in January 2024 and February 2024 remain unaffected by these adjustments.
Despite these challenges, the airline has reported a robust performance, with Q1 witnessing an impressive 91% seat occupancy rate, translating to PHP1.87 million in revenue, surpassing initial targets. Concurrently, the load factor has also seen a significant uptick, reaching 104%.
“With AirAsia, travelers can always rely on affordable fares. Our double-digit promo offers such as the LFG 20% off All Seats, All Flights, available until 28 April will surely make your travel plans happen. However, we always advise our guests to plan their travels ahead to further save on costs. The shorter distance between Terminals 1 and 2, where AirAsia operates domestic flights, is seen to optimize the use of taxiways and minimize carbon emissions that will greatly benefit the entire airport operations. Guests are also expected to have an improved customer journey with shorter transfer times between two terminals. We see this as the ‘Best Move’ for all stakeholders. The MIAA, under the stewardship of General Manager Eric Jose Ines, has been very welcoming of this initiative. We thank them for always putting the welfare of our guests on top of their priority,” according to First Officer Steve Dailisan, AirAsia Philippines Head of Communications and Public Affairs.
In addition to managing costs, AirAsia is actively exploring avenues to streamline airport operations and enhance the overall customer experience. Discussions are underway with Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) executives to potentially relocate international flights from Terminal 3 to Terminal 1, following the successful transfer of domestic operations from Terminal 4 to Terminal 2 last year.
AirAsia Philippines remains steadfast in its commitment to expanding its international footprint. In 2023, the airline served over 1.72 million passengers on international routes, with ambitions to double that figure this year. Plans are underway to increase flight frequencies on existing international routes, reaffirming the airline’s dedication to making air travel accessible to all.