Pangasinan to Enhance Tourism with Seaplanes in Western Region

Pangasinan, Philippines – The provincial government of Pangasinan is exploring the introduction of commercial seaplane services to boost tourism in the western part of the province. This initiative aims to reduce travel time and enhance accessibility to key tourist destinations.

According to Philippines News Agency, discussions are underway with seaplane companies to facilitate faster travel from Manila Bay to locations such as Lingayen town, Alaminos City, and other coastal towns in Pangasinan. The proposed seaplane service, with an estimated 40-minute travel time, could accommodate around 10 passengers per trip.

The governor recently experienced a test flight in a seaplane that landed at the Hundred Islands National Park. This project is seen as a precursor to the development of the Pangasinan Link Expressway and the Bolinao Airport, both currently in the land acquisition phase. The Bolinao Airport is designed to include a 1,500-meter runway, suitable for propeller-type commercial aircraft like the Airbus 320, with plans for further expansion.

Guico expressed optimism that the completion of Bolinao Airport by 2025 would significantly enhance tourism in Pangasinan’s 1st District, known for its white sand beaches, salt farms, Balingasay River, and giant clam breeding areas. The Pangasinan Link Expressway, which will connect the eastern and western parts of Pangasinan, is expected to complement the new airport, further boosting the province’s tourism industry.