AirAsia Philippines is enthusiastic about the vast potential Boracay Island holds for tourism and investment. The recent Boracay Business Forum proved to be a significant platform to showcase the island’s hidden opportunities. Asean ambassadors and representatives from various sectors emphasized the crucial task of preserving Boracay’s pristine natural beauty while simultaneously positioning it as a premier destination for both tourism and investment. This opportune moment invites travelers and investors to explore the unique offerings that Boracay has to provide.
Among the notable guests attending the event were Asean Ambassadors Abdul Malik Melvin Castelino of Malaysia, Megawati Manan of Brunei, Agus Widjojo of Indonesia, Lai Thai Binh of Vietnam, Phan Peuv of Cambodia, Sonexay Vannaxay of Laos, Imtiaz Ahmad Kazi of Pakistan, Minn-Gan Chow of Taiwan, and Sadre Alam of India, as well as Malay Mayor Frolibar Bautista. Ricky Isla, CEO of AirAsia Philippines, also participated and shed light on the airline’s substantial contributions to the island’s economic growth while discussing key areas for further development.
Ricky Isla, CEO of AirAsia Philippines, highlighted the airline’s dedication to fostering the island’s economic growth, outlining key areas for further progress. AirAsia is exploring the potential of introducing direct flights to Boracay, a move that would provide travelers with a convenient and seamless journey to the island. Recognizing the challenges posed by congestion in Manila, this initiative aims to alleviate pressure on the Ninoy Aquino International Airport.
Isla further elaborated on the profile of AirAsia travelers visiting Boracay, which primarily comprises millennials and young professionals between the ages of 30 and 39, followed by adults aged 50 and above seeking relaxation. The majority of these visitors originate from countries such as the USA, China, UK, South Korea, Japan, Germany, and Canada. Isla emphasized the significance of ensuring ease and accessibility in travel to attract more foreign tourists.
AirAsia Philippines boasts an impressive 94% load factor this month, with an 80% share attributed to domestic travelers and the remaining 20% to international visitors. The airline’s strategic move of offering fares 50% lower than competitors and capitalizing on frequent flights from Manila, Clark, and Cebu to Caticlan and Kalibo has proven successful. Furthermore, AirAsia maintains an exceptional average monthly On-Time Performance (OTP) of 85%, garnering support from the global community and contributing to the growth of international tourism in Boracay.
As the World’s Best Low-Cost Airline, AirAsia not only prioritizes responsible tourism but also actively promotes Boracay. Isla shared that since 2016, AirAsia Group has prevented the emission of 130,000 tonnes of carbon through its eco-efficiency practices. The airline has also been catering to travelers’ needs with its user-friendly AirAsia MOVE mobile app, providing access to flight schedules, hotel reservations, restaurant recommendations, and activity bookings. Isla acknowledged the potential for further improvement in the tourism experience by streamlining and digitizing processes such as booking accommodations and transportation.
