Final Phase: Why Cebu Pacific Turboprops Must Exit NAIA Terminal 2 for Clark

The final phase of the Cebu Pacific turboprop transfer is now confirmed. Effective March 29, 2026, all turboprop aircraft operations will relocate. These flights will move from Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 2 to Clark International Airport (CRK). This includes flights operated by subsidiary Cebgo (DG) and wholly-owned AirSwift (T6).

This mandatory move is a government directive. It aims to significantly reduce Ninoy Aquino International Airport congestion. The transfer will also maximize air traffic flow at the country's primary gateway.

Regulatory Mandate and Timeline

The Department of Transportation (DOTr) issued the order. The Manila Slot Coordinating Committee (MSCC) oversees the directive. The MSCC includes the DOTr, MIAA, CAAP, CAB, and NNIC. They first ordered a gradual turboprop phaseout NAIA in December 2024.

The original deadline for the full transfer was October 26, 2025. However, a July 29, 2025 resolution extended the phaseout. This extension moved the final date to March 29, 2026.

Operational Impact and New Opportunities

Relocating turboprop flights frees up crucial slots at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA). Cebu Pacific (CEB) will use these newly available slots. The airline plans to increase jet flight frequencies. This expansion addresses growing demand on key domestic and international routes.

• Domestic Increases: Weekly flights will increase to Bacolod, Butuan, Cebu, and Cagayan de Oro.
• International Expansion: Services to Hong Kong and Kaohsiung will also see increased frequency.

This shift supports the broader Philippines domestic aviation strategy. It leverages CRK's growing capacity as a major secondary hub.

Passenger Information and Options

Passengers with existing bookings on affected Cebgo and AirSwift operations will be notified. They will be automatically rebooked onto a new flight departing from Clark International Airport.

Cebu Pacific offers flexible passenger rebooking options for those who prefer other arrangements. These options are available via the airline’s Manage Booking portal:

• Free Rebooking: Passengers can rebook without fare difference. Travel must occur within 30 days of the original flight date.
• Travel Fund: The ticket amount can be stored in a virtual CEB wallet. This fund can pay for new flights or add-ons like baggage.
• Refund: A full refund of the ticket is also available.

Clark International Airport Capacity

The move highlights Clark's importance as a primary alternative gateway. Clark International Airport (CRK) is located about 80 kilometers northwest of Manila. Its new passenger terminal has a design capacity of 8 million passengers annually. Long-term plans aim for capacity up to 25 million passengers annually. The Clark International Airport capacity is essential for absorbing traffic from the congested Manila hub. This transfer is a key step in optimizing air traffic flow across the Greater Capital Region.

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