AirAsia to cancel international flights starting March 20

Budget carrier AirAsia said Tuesday it would be canceling all its international flights to and from Manila and Clark, Pampanga.

In an advisory, AirAsia said international flights to and from the Ninoy Aquino International Airport and Clark International Airport would be canceled starting March 20 until April 14.

The airline had also canceled all its domestic flights from both airports until April 14.

The cancelations were in compliance with the Philippine government’s directive imposing travel restrictions due to the current public health situation.

International airports in Luzon were given a 72-hour window to accommodate all foreigners seeking to exit the country, after which all gateways from the mainland would be closed.

The entire of Luzon was placed under an enhanced community quarantine at 12 a.m. on Tuesday, March 17, as ordered by President Rodrigo Duterte on Monday night.

AirAsia said domestic and international flights from its other hubs in the Philippines—Cebu and Kalibo—had similarly been canceled, dates of which follow directives of respective local government units.

The carrier was making provisions for guests affected by the flight cancellations and travel restrictions following the Philippine government’s latest directive, as follows:

• Move flight: One-time flight change to a new travel date on the same route within 90 calendar days from the original flight date without additional cost, subject to seat availability;
• Credit account: Retain the value of your fare in your AirAsia BIG Loyalty account for future travel with AirAsia. The online credit account is to be redeemed for booking within 365 calendar days from the issuance date for your travel with us. The actual travel dates can be after the expiry date as long as our flight schedule is out;
• Full refund: Obtain a full refund to your original payment method for the amount equivalent to your booking.

“Guests are also advised that changes to travel plans may be made with AirAsia even after the community quarantine period,” it said.

AirAsia added that the safety and wellbeing of their guests and Allstars was a top priority.

“AirAsia is complying with advice and regulations from the local government, civil aviation authorities, global and local health agencies, including the World Health Organization,” it said. “AirAsia is closely monitoring this situation and reserves the right to announce further policies according to the latest developments.” — DVM, GMA News