DOMESTIC FLIGHT PRICES MAY DROP AS DOTR, AERONAUTICS BOARD REVIEW FEES

The government is exploring ways to lower domestic airfares after complaints that local flights are often more expensive than international ones.

The Department of Transportation (DOTr) and the Civil Aeronautics Board (CAB) cited factors such as aircraft size, passenger capacity, and short runways at small airports like Catarman, Siargao, Antique, and Busuanga as driving up ticket prices.

Measures under consideration include extending provincial runways to accommodate larger jets and making airports “night-capable” to increase flight frequency.

DOTr said larger planes could reduce per-passenger costs, while smaller aircraft continue to result in higher fares.

The Department of Tourism and Malacañang assured the public that these initiatives aim to make domestic travel more affordable.

Source: PhilNews24 | February 2, 2026