AirAsia Philippines is taking to the skies with an exceptional performance this second half of the year, exceeding not only its earlier results in 2023 but also its pre-pandemic statistics from 2019. The data reveals a remarkable 92% load factor, or percentage of available seating filled, from January to June 2023. This achievement is significant when compared to the previous high of 91% from the same period in the pre-pandemic era. The first half of July continued this upward trend with a 94% load factor, again besting the corresponding pre-pandemic rate of 88%.
Trust and Transparency Drive Growth
AirAsia’s Head for Communications and Public Affairs, Steve Dailisan, credits the rise in the load factor to passenger trust. “We attribute the increase in load factor to the trust our guests have placed in AirAsia,” he said.
According to Dailisan, the airline’s improved punctuality, exceptional value-for-money deals, and stringent safety measures have drawn customers. He also stressed that guests could anticipate prompt updates regarding flight schedules in the event of weather-related or unscheduled aircraft maintenance disruptions, underscoring the company’s commitment to transparency in its daily operations.
This uptick in positive passenger sentiment towards flying has also boosted traffic at the nation’s primary airport hubs. From January to June 2023, passenger numbers at Manila International Airport rose to 78% or 22.22 million, which is an 8% increase over pre-pandemic figures.
AirAsia Philippines on the Global Stage
Internationally, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) reported that air traffic reached 96.7% of pre-pandemic levels in May 2023.
Dailisan emphasized the role of AirAsia Philippines in this recovery. “AirAsia Philippines is in close collaboration with industry and government partners in providing efficient, affordable, and seamless travel,” he said, adding that they expect passenger traffic to peak again in the coming months.
Notably, AirAsia’s recent victory as the world’s best low-cost airline by SKYTRAX for the 14th consecutive year placed AirAsia Philippines as the sole Philippine airline in the world’s best rankings. Criteria for the award included safety records, punctuality, comfort and amenities, route offerings, competitive pricing, environmental practices, industry recognition, and awards.
Coping with Fuel Surcharge Costs
The Civil Aeronautics Board (CAB) will maintain the fuel surcharge for August at level 4, with rates ranging from PHP117 to PHP342 for one-way domestic flights and PHP385.70 to PHP2,867.82 for international journeys.
Dailisan assures passengers that the airline will continue to mitigate the impact of fuel surcharge costs through sales and promotions. “We will continue to cushion the effects of fuel surcharge cost with our double-digit sale and other promos to ensure an affordable ticket price for our guests,” he said.
AirAsia Philippines also encourages its guests to plan their trips ahead, particularly during the busy “Ber” months.
Travel Advisory
Lastly, AirAsia Philippines reminds its guests to arrive at the airport at least 3-4 hours before their scheduled domestic and international departures. The airline wants to inform its guests that all domestic flights depart and arrive at NAIA T2, while international flights operate at NAIA Terminal 3. Travel advisories and flight schedules updates are regularly posted via the AirAsia travel safe platform.
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