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Manila Postpones Turboprop Transfer to Clark Airport Until Late First Quarter 2026

Manila Postpones Turboprop Transfer to Clark Airport Until Late First Quarter 2026
Delay in Transition of Turboprop Operations
The Manila Slot Coordination Committee (MSCC) has announced a postponement in the transfer of turboprop aircraft operations from Manila’s Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) to Clark International Airport in Angeles City. Initially scheduled for completion by October 2025, the deadline has now been extended to March 2026. This decision, reported by the Manila Bulletin, reflects the committee’s recognition of the complexities involved in the transition process.
The MSCC, comprising government officials and representatives from the airport operator, cited the necessity for additional time to effectively manage logistical and informational challenges. Concerns over Clark Airport’s infrastructure readiness, the operational adjustments required by airlines, and the potential for service disruptions during the transfer period have all contributed to the delay. The committee aims to ensure a smooth and gradual phase-out of turboprop flights from Manila’s congested main gateway.
Operational Adjustments and Industry Response
To facilitate the transition, the MSCC will impose limits on turboprop operations during the Winter 2025/2026 season, capping departures at 42 weekly flights with a maximum of six daily. Philippine Airlines, through its PAL Express subsidiary operating DHC-8-Q400 aircraft, and Cebu Pacific Air’s Cebgo unit, which flies ATR72-600 turboprops, are expected to share these slots equally, each receiving 21 weekly departures.
The government initiated the phase-out of turboprop flights from NAIA in March 2025, but the move has faced criticism from industry stakeholders and politicians alike. Concerns have been raised regarding the impact on connectivity to secondary and tertiary cities, as well as Clark Airport’s capacity to accommodate increased turboprop traffic. The extension is intended to provide airlines and authorities with additional time to address these issues, although market reactions suggest persistent apprehension about the implications for local aviation logistics and passenger services.
The postponement may prompt competitors to revise their operational strategies or leverage the extended timeline to enhance their service offerings. This evolving situation is expected to influence route planning and resource allocation across the Philippine aviation sector.
Current Turboprop Operations and Future Plans
According to ch-aviation data, Cebgo currently operates 59 weekly turboprop departures to four destinations from Manila and 38 weekly departures to seven destinations from Clark. PAL Express runs 59 weekly departures to seven destinations from Manila and 17 weekly flights to three destinations from Clark. Additionally, AirSWIFT, a subsidiary of Cebu Pacific Air, operates 42 weekly ATR turboprop flights from Manila to El Nido, while Sunlight Air offers daily ATR flights between Manila and Cebu.
Philippine Airlines has indicated that it will announce its winter season network plans once the new deadline is formally confirmed. Cebu Pacific Air has not yet provided a comment regarding the revised timeline.
Stakeholders are advised to monitor official announcements from relevant authorities for the most current and detailed information as the situation continues to develop.

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