AirAsia further strengthens connectivity in Mindanao, launches flights from Manila to General Santos

GENERAL SANTOS, 29 October 2020 - AirAsia celebrates yet another maiden flight from Manila to Mindanao, city of General Santos on Wednesday, 28 October 2020.

(L-R): AirAsia CFO Ray Berja, AirAsia CEO Ricky Isla, General Santos Mayor Ronnel Rivera, Senator Manny Pacquiao, Congresswoman Shirlyn Nograles, Mr. Armin Hautea

The aircraft with flight code Z2 661 arrived at  General Santos Airport at around 9:00 AM and was welcomed with a traditional water cannon salute. On the ground to welcome guests and VIPs on board this inaugural flight were Senator Manny Pacquiao, General Santos Mayor Ronnel Rivera and South Cotabato 1st District Representative Shirlyn Nograles.

Also present were Mr. Armin Hautea from the Department of Tourism,  Mr. Elmer Catulpos  of the General Santos City Chamber of Commerce,  Mr. Joel Gavina the General Manager of the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines, and Ms. Gemma Borreros from USAID. 

AirAsia Philippines CEO Ricky Isla said, ”We are thrilled  to have finally touched down in General Santos, the “Tuna Capital of the Philippines”. General Santos plays a key role in the economic development of Mindanao as a leading  producer and exporter of quality livestock. The destination provides vast economic opportunities and AirAsia is proud to offer not just affordable air travel, but to also deliver a welcome boost for  tourism in the region.  

“We are honored to hold our  first ever arrival event at  General Santos Airport and would like to thank our partners from the General Santos City government and the civil aviation authorities for their support in making these new services a reality.
“The People’s Champ” also expressed his gratitude for AirAsia’s inaugural flight and the opportunities it will bring to the region. 

The Senator said, “I would like to congratulate AirAsia on their maiden  flight to General Santos City today.   In these very difficult times when our people are trying so hard to return to their normal lives, the  decision to open your flights here in General Santos City is a bold and courageous step amid the challenges of the coronavirus pandemic. I'm deeply thankful to AirAsia for giving us this gift of hope and infinite optimism. I am sure the people of GenSan and Saranggani Province share the same amount of gratitude.”

To celebrate this new destination, AirAsia is offering all-in promotional fares from Manila to General Santos from as low as P800 for BIG Loyalty Members for bookings from today until 1 November 2020 for travel commencing  today until  30 June 2021. 

On Tuesday, 27 October 2020,  AirAsia also launched its maiden flight to Zamboanga City. 

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