AirAsia officially inaugurated its Cebu Strategic Hub earlier today, marking a significant expansion of its domestic and international network from Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA). The launch introduces two international routes and three domestic connections, reinforcing the airline’s commitment to enhancing regional connectivity while supporting recovery efforts in calamity-affected areas across the Visayas and Mindanao.
The inaugural Kuala Lumpur (KUL) – Cebu (CEB) flight, Z2 7113 operated by an Airbus A320-200 RP-C8950, was greeted with a traditional water cannon salute at MCIA, symbolizing the start of a new era for Cebu as a key aviation hub in the Philippines. AirAsia Philippines CEO and President Capt. Suresh Bangah, alongside AirAsia Aviation Group Chief Commercial Officer Amanda Woo, was warmly welcomed by Lapu-Lapu City Mayor Ma. Cynthia K. Chan, Aboitiz InfraCapital Cebu Airport Corporation (ACAC) CEO Athanasios Titonis, airline executives, government officials, and members of the media.
The newly launched international routes, connecting Cebu (CEB) to Kuala Lumpur (KUL) and Macao (MFM), are part of AirAsia’s broader strategy to expand its reach across Asia. With these additions, AirAsia’s network now spans over 160 destinations globally, offering travelers in the Visayas and Mindanao greater access to key cities in Asia, Australia, the Middle East, and Europe.
In addition to international flights, the airline also inaugurated domestic connections from Cebu to Davao, Iloilo, and Caticlan. These new routes are expected to strengthen the Queen City of the South’s position as a strategic aviation hub, providing passengers with more affordable and convenient travel options across the region.
“AirAsia’s goal is to accelerate Southeast Asia’s position as a global low-cost megahub. By linking our Cebu hub with Kuala Lumpur, we’re connecting Visayas and Mindanao to a broader global network spanning Asia, Australia, the Middle East, and Europe,” said Capt. Bangah during a modest program held at the airport’s concourse.
Tourism and aviation stakeholders in Cebu have expressed optimism that the expansion will contribute to regional economic growth and disaster recovery efforts. The additional flights are expected to enhance passenger traffic, stimulate local tourism, and support communities affected by recent calamities by facilitating better mobility and access to resources.
AirAsia Philippines also shared that it plans to add at least two aircraft to its fleet annually starting in 2026. This expansion aims to support growing passenger demand, enhance operational efficiency, and ensure that the airline can continue adding new routes and strengthening its network across the Philippines and the broader ASEAN region.