Cebu Pacific transfers operations to Bicol International Airport

Gokongwei-led carrier Cebu Pacific on Friday said it was transferring its operations to the newly inaugurated Bicol International Airport (BIA) effective October 8, 2021.

The Department of Transportation (DOTr) said earlier the BIA began commercial operations Friday.

The BIA, which has a capacity of up to two million passengers per year, will replace the existing Legazpi Domestic Airport.

Cebu Pacific said it has been mounting flights to and from Legazpi since 2006, flying about 4.5 million passengers over the past 15 years.

Cebu Pacific currently flies 11 times weekly between Manila and Legazpi.

Pre-pandemic, the budget carrier said it flew five times daily between Manila and Legazpi, on top of once-daily flights to and from Cebu.

“We have consistently maintained our presence in the Bicol region and we remain committed to continue supporting its growth,” said Xander Lao, chief commercial officer at Cebu Pacific.

"The new airport is a welcome development as this will enable us to increase passenger and cargo flights once demand picks up, and will consequently contribute to the region's economic recovery," Lao added. — DVM, GMA News