AirAsia Philippines says business as usual despite airport ban order

 Authorities claim the low-cost carrier owes 271 million pesos (RM17.5 million) in unpaid air navigation, landing, parking and passenger service charges from 2021 to May 2026.

AirAsia Philippines said all flights across its network will remain operational. (AirAsia X pic)

PETALING JAYA:

AirAsia Philippines has assured passengers that its operations will continue as scheduled, despite reports that authorities have ordered the airline to cease operations at all government-run airports over alleged unpaid fees dating back five years.

The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) has reportedly directed AirAsia Philippines to halt operations at all government-managed airports over 271 million pesos (RM17.5 million) in unpaid air navigation, landing, parking and passenger service charges from 2021 to May 2026.

However, AirAsia Philippines said all flights across its network would remain operational, reported Philippine media and news organisation ABS-CBN.

“AirAsia Philippines assures the travelling public that it remains fully operational, with flights and services continuing as scheduled across its network, subject to normal operational considerations such as weather and other standard factors affecting airline operations,” it said in a statement.

In a cease-and-desist order issued yesterday, CAAP directed AirAsia Philippines to cease operations under its jurisdiction within three days of receiving the notice.

Philippine digital news outlet Politiko reported that the order also barred AirAsia Philippines from utilising airport facilities unless authorised in writing by CAAP.

CAAP director-general Raul del Rosario cited the low-cost carrier’s “continued failure to pay outstanding obligations despite repeated collection efforts”.

The regulator had previously issued a formal letter of demand on May 11, but its June 2 directive noted that no payment, settlement proposal or other arrangement had been received. - FMT