ANGELES CITY — AisAsia Philippines will open three domestic routes from Clark International Airport soon as measures to maximize the use of aircraft displaced by travel restriction in different countries afflicted by COVID 19.
“We have to open more routes in our domestic destinations while travel ban is in effect and at the same time promote major tourists spots in the country,” said AirAsia PH CEO Ricky Isla during press conference held at the Best western Hotel at Barangay Balibago here.
The new routes include Clark-Zamboanga; Clark – General Santos City and Clark-Dumaguete. No specific dates was mentioned but new domestic flights will begin next month (March).
“Our efforts, especially in the domestic scene, are in support with the Department of Tourism program for a more vibrant local tourism. These new routes raises AirAsia local network to 14 destinations,” the airline company said in a press statement.
Several countries in SouthEast Asia affected by COVID19 including Singapore, Hongkong, and Macau and Taiwan have issued travel ban apparently to contain the spread of the deadly virus. AirAsia PH has direct flights in these countries.
Meanwhile, AirAsia PH held its second business assembly particularly the tourism stakeholder to mapped out plans and startegy in addressing the problem besetting the tourism industry in the country.
“The business assembly was organized to enrgize loal travel agents and partners,” AirAsia said in a statement.
Ricky Isla, AirAsia PH Chief Operasting Officer (CEO), said the airline is proud to expand its network and introduced new innovations such as Santan, the inflight restaurant where passengers are encouraged to book for their meals and the easy use of AVA, the AirAsia Virtual AllStars, a 24/7 live chat agent that caters to both businesses and consumers.
With the new system innovation, Isla said this translate to a more customer satisfaction.
Isla said part of the AirAsia PH efforts to attract more domestic travellers is by giving away 20 to 30 percent discounts for all local flights.
“With this, we are true to our commitment for an access and eventually everyone can fly,” said Gilbert Simpao, AirAsia PH COO.-Jess Malabanan