PHILIPPINES AirAsia, Inc. is hoping that its domestic operations would return to pre-pandemic levels by April or May next year, a company official said on Wednesday.
“For domestic frequency, aligned again to the path of herd immunity, we hope to at least achieve 100% by April or May, before the elections,” Philippines AirAsia Chief Financial Officer Ray C. Berja said at a virtual briefing.
“For the international, that would be, maybe, early 2023 or later part of 2022. But that one is very tough because it involves the restrictions of other country, which will be out of our control,” he added.
The domestic flight frequency of the low-cost airline is currently between 10% and 15% of pre-pandemic levels.
“We are enjoying 78% load factor on a per flight basis. Going to December, we are increasing our capacity for Cebu, Boracay, Tagbilaran, and other major domestic routes,” Mr. Berja said.
The airline is hoping to hit around 20% of its pre-pandemic capacity in the fourth quarter (Q4).
“Hopefully, as well, that the load factor will increase to around 80%. That’s the way we see our quarter four numbers. Also, the cargo will be in much better and encouraging number for us this Q4,” Mr. Berja noted.
International charter flights are helping the low-cost airline stay afloat, Philippines AirAsia Chief Executive Officer Ricardo P. Isla said.
Besides the countries in the ASEAN region, the airline now flies to China as well, he said. — Arjay L. Balinbin
