Philippine Airlines said Wednesday it cancelled several domestic flights as it prepares to transfer some operations to Clark International Airport in Pampanga.
The flag carrier, controlled by tycoon Lucion Tan, said in an advisory it would implement flight schedule changes for some domestic flights starting Sept. 1.
“We apologize for any inconvenience as we continue to support the government’s drive to make air travel safe, secure and seamless for all passengers. We hope for your understanding on this matter,” PAL said.
It said among the flights cancelled were from Manila to Caticlan and vice versa; Cebu to Manila; Manila to Calbayog and vice versa; Manila to Kalibo; Manila to Laoag and vice versa; Manila to Legaspi and vice versa; Manila to Tablas and vice versa; and Manila to Tuguegarao and vice versa.
PAL said passengers might opt to rebook within 30 days from their original flight date or within the ticket validity period.
Passengers also have the option to reroute their flight to the nearest destination of choice subject only to any applicable fare condition or to request for a full refund of the ticket within 30 days from the original flight date.
PAL said it would waive rebooking, change and refund fees/charges of the affected flights.
PAL also announced that it would soon operate new flights out of Clark International Airport.
“These moves are being carried out in support of the government’s thrust to decongest Ninoy Aquino International Airport,” PAL said.
PAL spokesperson Cielo Villaluna said the flights changes were separate from the new flights that the airline would mount from Clark. Villaluna said no cancelled flights would be transferred to the former US military airbase.
Villaluna said the airline already informed its passengers about the changes in domestic flights schedule.
She said only three percent of PAL’s total domestic flights were affected by the changes in flight schedule.(D. Amojelar, MS)