LAOAG — Regional airline Sky Pasada has recommenced its service between Laoag International Airport and Basco, Batanes, with flights scheduled for every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday starting this week. The Laoag hub, which had been inactive since its closure in 2003 due to the SARS outbreak, is now open, marking a significant step in revitalizing regional air travel.
According to Philippines News Agency, the reopening of the route is part of broader efforts to enhance local and international connectivity from Laoag. The governor expressed enthusiasm about restoring flights not only to domestic locations but also to international destinations like China, Hong Kong, and Taiwan. He highlighted the importance of the Laoag-Basco route, particularly for frequent business travelers and students, referring to Sky Pasada as the 'jeepney of the sky.'
Governor Manotoc also noted plans to promote the new route through collaborations with local officials from Batanes for benchmarking activities. He revealed hopes for future expansions that could connect Laoag with other regional destinations such as Calayan in Cagayan and Baguio City via Binalonan, Pangasinan. The inaugural flight from Basco to Laoag occurred last Saturday, carrying 13 passengers, with the return flight transporting nine passengers, indicating a positive start for the reinstated service.
In related news, the governor announced the discontinuation of Philippine Airlines' (PAL) Laoag-Cebu route effective July 31, due to challenges in maintaining load efficiency amidst competitive travel options available in Cebu. However, he mentioned potential seasonal revivals of the route to align with the province’s peak tourism periods. Since December last year, the Ilocos Norte government has been collaborating with PAL to support the Laoag-Cebu flights, even agreeing to subsidize up to 20 seats per flight to sustain the service.