Sunlight Air embarked on a new journey today, marking a significant shift in its operations with the launch of its inaugural flight from Clark International Airport (CRK) to Busuanga. Initially announced earlier this year, this move aims to enhance the airline’s efficiency and punctuality in serving its passengers. Furthermore, Sunlight Air is planning a fleet expansion in the next 2 to 3 years, with the Airbus A320 being one of the potential candidates.
In relation to a recent report suggesting Sunlight Air was considering acquiring regional jets such as the Airbus A220 for its fleet expansion, I sought further information. Sunlight Air CEO Ryna Brito-Garcia confirmed that the airline intends to expand its fleet in the next two to three years, with the A320 being considered. While no specific aircraft has been finalized yet, the airline is currently in discussions with various aircraft manufacturers and suppliers regarding its future fleet expansion.
A Strategic Shift for Enhanced Service
The transition from Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) to CRK is a strategic decision by Sunlight Air to better serve its customers by providing more efficient and timely flights. Ryna Brito-Garcia, CEO of Sunlight Air, expressed enthusiasm about this development, stating, “In line with our commitment to delivering exceptional customer service and top-tier flights to underserved local destinations, we are happy to have launched our first flight from Clark with the support of the Luzon International Premiere Airport Development Corp. (LIPAD) and are confident that this move will allow us to better deliver our trademark quality of service to many more Filipinos.”
This relocation is not just about a change in departure points; it’s about expanding Sunlight Air’s horizons with new routes to sought-after destinations like Siargao, San Vicente, Coron, and Caticlan. Noel Manankil, CEO and President of LIPAD, shared his excitement for welcoming Sunlight Air to CRK, emphasizing the airport’s role as a key aviation hub in the region and its commitment to ensuring a stellar travel experience for Sunlight Air passengers.
Celebrations Mark the Inaugural Flight
The airline’s inaugural flight 2R601 from CRK to Busuanga (USU) was a festive affair, complete with water cannons, performances by local artists, and the traditional welcoming of passengers with festive leis. The event saw the attendance of notable figures, including Dr. Richard Daenos, Regional Director of the Department of Tourism for Region 3, and executives from Clark Development Corporation (CDC) and Bases Conversion Development Authority (BCDA).
In addition to its move to Clark International Airport, Sunlight Air is also introducing new routes from Mactan-Cebu International Airport. The airline’s expansion includes daily flights from Cebu to popular destinations such as Coron, Siargao, and Manila, with upcoming routes to Iloilo, Cagayan de Oro, and Caticlan set to follow. The inaugural Cebu flight on April 3 will further cement Sunlight Air’s commitment to connecting more Filipinos to beautiful destinations across the country.
Nevertheless, I am keeping my fingers crossed, hoping to see an Airbus in Sunlight Air livery one day.
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!
