THE new P1.5-billion Antique Airport in the capital San Jose de Buenavista. (PCO)
ILOILO CITY – The only commercial flights to Antique – with a new P1.5-billion airport – thrice a week operated by Philippine Airlines (PAL) are scheduled to stop by the end of March.
“This is disheartening,” said Antique Gov. Paolo Javier.
The flag carrier will stop all turboprop flights in and out of Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) in Manila by March 29.
The move is in compliance with the Manila Slot Coordination Committee’s resolution to decongest the NAIA of turboprop flights and maximize it for bigger aircraft.
Unlike other domestic routes, PAL is entirely discontinuing its Antique operations in the capital of San Jose de Buenavista.
With no alternative direct air transportation, two provincial legislators are asking PAL and agencies under the Department of Transportation (DOTr) to reconsider.
Antique Provincial Board Members Ricky Lavega and Karmila Rose Dimamay passed separate resolutions urging PAL to continue operations.
The Antique airport opened last January and can accommodate an Airbus aircraft with its 1,800-meter runway.