PRESIDENT Rodrigo R. Duterte has signed into law a measure granting Magnum Air, Inc., the operator of SkyJet Airlines, a franchise to operate domestic and international flights.
Republic Act No. 11410, which Mr. Duterte signed on Aug. 22, gives Magnum Air a 25-year franchise to “establish, operate and maintain domestic and international air transport services” in the country.
Operating since 2012, SkyJet currently offers direct flights from Manila to San Vicente, Batanes, Coron via Busuanga, and Camiguin. It also offers charter and cargo services.
Under the law, the airline still has to secure certificates, permits and licenses from the Civil Aeronautics Board (CAB) and the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP).
The airline is also required to fix “just and reasonable rates” for the transportation of passengers, mails, goods, and freight, subject to the regulations and approval of the CAB and other property regulatory agencies of the government.
Magnum Air also has to offer at least 30% of its outstanding capital stock to Filipinos, in compliance with the constitutional provision, promoting public participation in public utilities.
The bill granting Magnum Air’s franchise was passed by the House of Representatives on Sept. 25, 2017, and amended and passed by the Senate on May 27, 2019. The House concurred with the amendments on May 29, 2019. — A.L.Balinbin
