PHILIPPINES AirAsia, Inc. said on Sunday that it is now operating flights between Manila and Singapore after a two-year commercial hiatus due to the pandemic crisis.
The low-cost airline launched its inaugural flight to Singapore on Dec. 4 to service overseas Filipino workers and business travelers.
“Initially, we will cater to our Filipino workers and business travelers; but soon, as we slowly recover from the global pandemic, we hope to open this route for leisure travel also,” the company said in an e-mailed statement.
The airline said last week that it would also resume its Hong Kong flights starting Dec. 5.
The airline said it has set safety standards and is strictly adhering to the established health protocols amid the emergence of Omicron, a new coronavirus variant of concern.
“Our return to Hong Kong signifies our commitment to service our business travelers and overseas Filipino workers who have been wanting to come home to the Philippines for the upcoming holiday season,” the low-cost carrier noted.
“However, there should be no room for complacency,” it added, noting that its aircraft are equipped with high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters, which “kill up to 99.9% of viruses.”
“On top of that, our flying crew are also 100% fully vaccinated against the virus. We also conduct thorough aircraft cabin cleaning and sanitation after each flight,” the airline added.
Fully vaccinated guests from green and yellow list countries must present proof of vaccination and a negative coronavirus test result taken 72 hours before their scheduled departure. — Arjay L. Balinbin
