Philippine Airlines (PAL) has announced the discontinuation of all its turboprop flights operating to and from Manila, effective 29 March 2026, in line with the timelines set under the 29 July 2025 resolution of the Manila Slot Coordination Committee (MSCC Resolution 2025-02). The move marks a significant operational shift as part of broader efforts to optimize runway use and comply with updated slot allocation and aircraft deployment policies at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA | MNL).
Under the MSCC resolution, turboprop aircraft are required to transition out of NAIA to give way to higher-capacity jet operations, addressing congestion and improving overall airport efficiency. PAL confirmed that all affected turboprop services will be transferred to alternative hubs outside Metro Manila, while ensuring that passengers retain access to key domestic destinations.
To maintain connectivity, passengers with existing bookings on affected routes will be rerouted via PAL’s major domestic hubs in Cebu, Clark, and Iloilo. The airline emphasized that these changes are designed to minimize disruption while aligning with regulatory requirements and long-term network planning.
Revised Routing for Affected Turboprop Flights
| Original Route | New Route |
|---|---|
| Manila – Busuanga (Coron) – Manila | Clark – Busuanga (Coron) – Clark |
| Manila – Siargao – Manila | Clark – Siargao – Clark |
| Manila – Antique – Manila | Manila – Iloilo – Manila |
| Manila – Catarman – Manila | Cebu – Catarman – Cebu |
PAL noted that Clark International Airport (CRK) will take on a larger role for leisure-oriented routes such as Coron (USU) and Siargao (IAO), while Cebu (CEB) and Iloilo (ILO) will serve as regional gateways for Visayas and Mindanao-bound travelers.
Beyond the rerouting of turboprop services, PAL is also preparing to boost capacity at NAIA through the introduction of additional domestic jet frequencies beginning in March 2026. This expansion is aimed at high-demand routes where passenger traffic remains strong and where jet aircraft can deliver greater seat capacity and operational efficiency.
Expanded Weekly Domestic Jet Services from Manila
| Route | Weekly Flights |
|---|---|
| Manila – Cebu | Up to 76 |
| Manila – Dumaguete | Up to 21 |
| Manila – Iloilo | Up to 42 |
| Manila – Roxas | Up to 14 |
| Manila – Tacloban | Up to 28 |
According to PAL, the increase in jet frequencies will provide passengers with more scheduling flexibility and improved connectivity, particularly for business and essential travel. The airline added that these adjustments are part of its broader strategy to modernize its domestic network while responding to infrastructure and regulatory developments at NAIA.
Passengers who are already booked on the affected turboprop flights will receive updated itineraries directly from Philippine Airlines. The carrier assured travelers that flexible options — including rebooking, rerouting, or refunds — will be made available as needed, in accordance with PAL’s customer service policies.
As the March 2026 transition approaches, PAL encouraged passengers to regularly check for flight advisories and to coordinate with the airline or their travel agents for the latest updates.