Tourism Dept: 'Turboprop domestic flights moved to Clark should be returned to NAIA'

Tourism Dept: 'Turboprop domestic flights moved to Clark should be returned to NAIA'

📌 Punto! Central Luzon reported on Monday, Nov. 9 that Tourism Secretary Dita Angara-Mathay (DOT) said turboprop (propeller) domestic flights that were moved from NAIA in Manila to Clark International Airport and elsewhere should be returned to NAIA. The reason: domestic travel has become harder and more expensive since the move to Clark. The decision will be made by the Manila Slot Coordination Committee, and no date has been set yet.

■ What's changing
· The restriction on turboprop operations at NAIA began in March 2025, and the relocation was completed before October 2025. The measure was meant to reduce congestion and give runway slots to larger jets.
· Secretary Angara-Mathay said the restriction added a burden to domestic tourism, which was already struggling with rising airfares and fluctuating jet fuel prices, and said, "Turboprop aircraft should be allowed at NAIA again." She also said that until the North-South Commuter Railway (NSCR) is completed, getting to Clark is difficult.
· The secretary said she discussed the issue with Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon, and that Secretary Dizon seemed open to negotiating the allocation of some slots at NAIA for turboprop aircraft.

■ Tips for residents and travelers
· Nothing has changed yet. For now, turboprop domestic flights will keep departing from Clark and other airports as they do today, so be sure to check the departure airport for your booked flight.
· The final decision rests with the Manila Slot Coordination Committee, which includes the Department of Transportation, the Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA), and the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP). The NSCR Clark station is scheduled to begin operating in 2029.

■ Source
Punto! Central Luzon (11/9)