The Philippine government is taking steps to reduce the cost of plane tickets for domestic travel. The Department of Transportation (DOTr) and the Civil Aeronautics Board (CAB) stated that they are responding to travelers' concerns over high fares for local flights. They are working on extending runways to allow larger aircraft to operate. Specifically, the runway in Antique has already been upgraded, while the Busuanga airport project is nearing completion, with similar plans for other airports nationwide. Additionally, the agencies are working to make smaller airports 'night capable,' enabling operations during both day and night to accommodate more flights and further reduce fares. The DOTr and CAB assured the public that they continue to monitor airline pricing, particularly on domestic routes such as Manila-Catarman, to ensure charges remain fair and reasonable. Earlier, three major Philippine airlines committed to removing their two most expensive fare classes to help lower ticket prices. This move came after complaints that traveling to local destinations is often costlier than going abroad. The DOTr and CAB explained that airfare depends on several factors, including the size of the aircraft and its passenger capacity. 'If there are fewer passengers, the cost per passenger is higher, and the fare will be higher,' the statement said. Some airports, such as those in Catarman, Siargao, Antique, and Busuanga, can only accommodate small aircraft due to short runways. To address this, the DOTr and the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) are extending runways to allow larger jets.
