LOCAL AIRLINES are implementing additional flight suspensions and frequency reductions on select routes as they adjust operations amid the continued conflict within the Middle East.
In separate advisories on Thursday, flag carrier Philippine Airlines (PAL) and budget carrier Cebu Pacific (CEB) said they’re adjusting their networks by suspending some routes and reducing flight frequencies.
PAL said it’s adjusting parts of its flight schedule as a result of “changing conditions affecting global aviation.”
“We understand that this may increasingly affect travel plans and sincerely apologize for the inconvenience. PAL is working to reduce disruption and can proceed to review these routes as conditions improve,” PAL said.
The airline has indefinitely suspended its Cebu-Guam flights starting April 16 and its Cebu-Ho Chi Minh City services starting April 19, except on May 1, 3, 24, and 31.
PAL also suspended some domestic flights, including Clark-Siargao starting May 4, Cebu-Ozamiz starting May 5, and Cebu-Calbayog starting May 6, until further notice.
Cargo operations on affected routes are also disrupted, PAL said, adding that it’s working with logistics partners to rearrange alternative routing options.
Cebu Pacific has also canceled its flights to and from Dubai until April 20.
“Cebu Pacific continues to evaluate its flight operations to and from the Middle East amid the continued security situation within the region. As this stays a developing situation, further schedule adjustments may happen,” it said.
The airline said passengers with Dubai flights scheduled until April 30, in addition to those traveling to and from Riyadh until May 31, may avail of free rebooking or convert their tickets into travel funds.
Each airlines said the suspensions and frequency reductions reflect the impact of the Middle East conflict on fuel costs.
They added that they’ve enough jet fuel to sustain operations and are working to secure additional supply, following President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr.’s statement that aircraft grounding could also be possible amid tight fuel supply and costs nearing $200 per barrel. — Ashley Erika O. Jose