Airlines need to establish more routes to boost tourism, allowing both local and international travelers better access to various destinations across the country. As an archipelago, the Philippines requires robust air connectivity, providing numerous options for passengers.
On January 15, Philippine Airlines (PAL) introduced a new daily service connecting Manila to Cauayan, offering a quicker alternative to the previously lengthy overland journey. The inaugural flight, PR 2018, departed from Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) at 1:25 PM and is scheduled to land at Cauayan Airport at 2:30 PM aboard an 86-seater De Havilland Dash 8-400 Next Generation aircraft.
This new service aims to make travel more convenient for tourists, business travelers, and families. It replaces the long, 10-hour land journey from Manila with a comfortable flight, positioning Cauayan as the gateway to Isabela province. Isabela is well-known for its vibrant festivals, such as Bambanti and Gawagaway-yan, offering visitors a unique experience.
The inaugural flight was marked by a send-off ceremony at NAIA Terminal 2, attended by local government officials and stakeholders. PAL Express President Rabbi Vincent Ang expressed his enthusiasm for the new route, highlighting its potential to enhance tourism and stimulate economic growth in Northern Luzon. “We are pleased to introduce our new Manila-Cauayan-Manila route to serve the residents of Isabela province,” he said. “At Philippine Airlines, we are happy to be part of a story of economic progress in Northern Luzon and look forward to working with our partners and stakeholders in the local government and community, in the continuing task of building up tourism, business growth, and greater connectivity for the benefit of all Filipinos.”
Cauayan City Mayor Caesar “Jaycee” Dy, Jr. also shared his optimism, highlighting the potential economic benefits of the new service. “Cauayan City is a jump point of tourism in the Northern East of the Philippines. By opening this new route, we are also expecting the economic growth that it will bring to our city and our province,” he said.
More and safer travel options
This development underscores PAL’s commitment to providing accessible travel options for Filipinos while supporting local economies. The daily flights are expected to attract more visitors to Isabela province and provide a reliable travel option for its residents.
Travelers can book tickets through PAL’s website, mobile app, hotline, or preferred travel agents. Flights depart Manila at 1:25 PM and arrive in Cauayan at 2:30 PM. Return flights leave Cauayan at 3:25 PM, reaching Manila at 4:40 PM.
PAL continues to expand its network, connecting more destinations and promoting economic opportunities in regions across the Philippines. The new Manila-Cauayan service offers an efficient and comfortable travel option, contributing to the growth of Isabela province and beyond.
First love never dies. I fell in love with airplanes and aviation when I was a kid. My dream was to become a pilot, but destiny led me to another path: to be an aviation digital media content creator and a small business owner. My passion for aviation inspires me to bring you quality content through my website and social accounts. Aviation is indeed in my blood and blog!
