AirAsia resumes flights to Kuala Lumpur and Bangkok

AirAsia Philippines said it is resuming commercial flights to Kuala Lumpur and Bangkok this month, but only Filipinos on essential travel will be allowed to board the flights based on the government’s policy. 

The budget airline said international flights, including to/from Kuala Lumpur and Bangkok-Don Mueang, are now open for booking on the AirAsia mobile app and website. 

It asked guests to check the latest travel restrictions and advice of respective governments before travelling, as policies may change frequently. 

“While foreign nationals are allowed to exit the Philippines, only Filipinos on essential travel will be authorized to travel internationally based on the national government’s July 21 resolution, which states that guests must provide a declaration acknowledging the potential risks involved in travelling such as flight delays,” AirAsia said. 

It said foreign nationals with long-term visas would be allowed entry into the Philippines starting Aug. 1. Returning overseas Filipinos will be given priority on flights back to the Philippines.

Guests travelling to the Philippines were advised to take note of some mandatory conditions required by the government, including the pre-booking of testing providers and quarantine facilities.

“All arriving international guests will undergo health tests at the airport or designated facility. They will then be required to be quarantined at approved facilities while waiting for their test results. Guests who obtain a negative test result will be required to undergo 14 days of home quarantine,” AirAsia said.

“Guests are encouraged to pre-register and complete the Electronic-Case Investigation Form to expedite airport procedures upon arrival,” it said.

Cebu Pacific said it would also gradually rebuild its international flight network with the restart of flights between Manila and key Asian destinations in August.  This is on top of the once-a-week flights between Manila and Dubai which re-started in mid-July. 

It said that beginning Aug. 1, Cebu Pacific will fly twice weekly from Tokyo (Narita) to Manila (Wednesday and Saturday).  On Aug. 6, the airline will fly two times weekly (Thursday and Saturday) between Manila and Singapore; and every Thursday from Seoul (Incheon) to Manila.  

Twice weekly flights (Wednesday and Friday) between Taipei and Manila are scheduled to begin on Aug. 7. One-way flights to Manila from Osaka (Kansai) are also scheduled to begin on Aug. 7.