Budget carrier AirAsia Philippines formally kicked off their Manila-Bacolod-Manila route yesterday morning with the maiden flight to the Bacolod-Silay Airport landing at 9:40 a.m., where the aircraft was welcomed with a water cannon salute.
Guests and VIPs were then welcomed by Bacolod City Mayor Evelio Leonardia, along with airport officials and AirAsia staff.
In a press conference following a short welcome ceremony, AirAsia Philippines Chief Executive Officer Ricardo Isla revealed Bacolod-Silay Airport was the only domestic destination it opened this year.
He noted, in their first flights to the city, all services are fully booked.
The airline official also pointed out, the market is “very promising and optimistic” as they have already sold a total of 10,000 seats for November and December.
“I cannot give the exact statistics although, for November and December, there is an incremental of approximately 20 to 30 percent of the regular month,” Isla explained.
He added, the increase includes their 11 other destinations in the Philippines.
Meanwhile, Isla said they are currently studying the possibility of opening the city to other destinations in the country such as Clark and Cebu.
The mayor has also requested the airline official to study the possibility of opening international flights from Bacolod-Silay Airport.
Last year, Bacolod City administrator, Atty. John Orola, appealed to Philippine Airlines (PAL) to open regular service to Hong Kong, Singapore, and South Korea from the Bacolod-Silay Airport. However, PAL Vice President for Corporate Communications Josen Perez de Tagle pointed out several issues with the airport, such as the lack of fueling facilities, which would enable them to operate international flights more efficiently./DGB, WDJ