AirAsia Philippines reaches pre-pandemic load factor

*Fuel Surcharge for the month of August remains at Level 4 

Manila, 18 July 2023 - AirAsia Philippines is en route to clearer skies this H2 with an increased load factor from H1 of this year, even surpassing its pre-pandemic 2019 figures.  

The World’s Best Low-Cost Airline has registered a 92% load factor from January to June 2023, registering a higher number of passengers who flew with the airline this year versus pre-pandemic records of 91% during the same time period.  AirAsia Philippines also recorded a load factor of 94% for the first 15 days of July which is higher compared to the same pre-pandemic period figure of 88%.

AirAsia Philippines Head for Communications and Public Affairs and Spokesperson Steve Dailisan said, “We attribute the increase in load factor to the trust our guests have placed in AirAsia. Our improved on-time performance, best value for money deals and safety protocols entice our customers to fly with the World’s Best Low-Cost Carrier. Our guests can also expect timely updates on flight schedules whenever there are disruptions brought about by weather or non-scheduled maintenance of aircraft to promote transparency in our day-to-day operations.”

Travelers' positive behavior towards flying has also resulted in improved foot traffic in the country’s main airport hubs. The Manila International Airport reported that passenger numbers from January to June 2023 increased to 78% or 22.22 million passengers which is 8% higher than the pre-pandemic figure.

Globally, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) reports air traffic hitting 96.7% pre-pandemic last May.

“AirAsia Philippines is in close collaboration with industry and government partners in providing efficient, affordable and seamless travel among guests with passenger traffic expected to peak again in the coming months,” Dailisan added.

AirAsia airline group’s recent win, retaining its World’s Best Low Cost Airline by SKYTRAX for the 14th consecutive year, made AirAsia Philippines the only airline from the country to be part of the world’s best rankings. Factors included in choosing the best airline include safety records, on-time performance, comfort and amenities, network and route offerings, price competitiveness, environmental and sustainability practices, awards, and recognition in the industry.

Meanwhile, the Civil Aeronautics Board (CAB) retains fuel surcharge for the month of August at level 4. Fuel surcharge ranges from PHP117 to PHP342 per one-way domestic and PHP385.70 to PHP2,867.82 for international flight.

“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. We would also encourage our guests to plan their travels ahead to prepare for the anticipated especially during “Ber” months,” Dailisan stressed. 

AirAsia Philippines reminds its guests to be at the airport at least 3-4 hours before their scheduled domestic and international departure.  The World's Best Low-Cost airline would also like to inform its guests that all domestic flights depart and arrive at NAIA T2, while international flights continue to operate at NAIA Terminal 3. All travel advisories and other information regarding flight schedules are regularly updated and posted via the AirAsia travel safe.