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MANILA, Philippines - The Philippines' leading low-cost carrier, which accounts for 45 percent of the domestic market, is bucking a government move to minimize flight delays by reducing the number of flights.
“Cebu Pacific remains consistent in pushing tourism for the benefit of the Philippine economy. We have to increase flights in order to meet the government’s tourism targets,” said Candice Iyog, vice president for marketing and distribution of Cebu Air Inc. (CEB).
“The traveling public has been experiencing air traffic congestion in Manila, and both the government and airlines have been taking several proactive steps to minimize this. As the airline industry grows, it is very important to plan ahead to be at par with other international airports,” said Iyog.
Instead of reducing flights, Cebu Pacific has supported the appointment of an independent slot coordinator, who has drafted a schedule for the March to October period using the International Air Transport Authority (IATA) guidelines.
CEB, whose on-time performance slipped from 88 percent in 2010 to 77 percent last year, said airport slotting addresses the problem of runway congestion, thus maximizing the use of airport facilities.
Besides airport slotting, Cebu Pacific is pushing for the following:
“We hope our passengers understand that we continue working with the government to minimize these delays, and that this is one of Cebu Pacific’s main operational priorities. We remain active in all the capacity enhancements of Philippine airports, since we already have a substantial investment in the country’s aviation growth,” Iyog said.
Transport Secretary Manuel Roxas earlier said the government would compel airlines to reduce the number of flights should they refuse to voluntarily do so.
He said the government is pursuing the reduction following complaints from passengers of flight delays.
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