Cebu Pacific (CEB) advised its passengers Friday that all CEB (5J) domestic and international flights remain at NAIA Terminal 3, while flights of its sister airline Cebgo (DG) continue to operate from NAIA Terminal 4.
CEB made the advisory following reports circulating on social media announcing the new airline NAIA terminal assignments, including Terminal 1 exclusively for Philippine Airlines (PAL), Terminal 2 for domestic flights for PAL and Cebu Pacific, Terminal 3 for international carriers, and Terminal 4 for AirAsia Philippines flights.
According to New NAIA Infrastructure Corporation (NNIC) general manager Angelito Alvarez, the improvement program at the airport includes terminal reassignments to be “implemented two years after the completion of NAIA Terminal 2.”
In a statement, the CEB management said it fully supports the long-term vision of the NNIC and “we will continue to work with our partners so future plans are executed smoothly.”
CEB, however, emphasized the need for operational support and systems before implementing any changes. It stated that for a seamless transition with minimal disruption to passengers, “a thorough consultative process and sufficient preparation time are essential for every terminal transfer.”
They cited the example of Singapore, where it took a year of discussions and coordination before moving to Changi Airport Terminal 4 from the low-cost carrier terminal, stressing the critical need for comprehensive planning and cooperation in such transitions.
CEB and another airline AirAsia Philippines stated that minimal disruption for passengers is crucial, especially during peak travel periods like the holiday season.
“If sufficient time and consultation are given, terminal transfers can be handled smoothly. With proper planning and open communication, airlines can successfully manage these transitions,” CEB stated.
AirAsia, on the other hand, said such terminal reassignment “requires careful planning, including time and motion studies, consideration of environmental factors, and adequate time for implementation to minimize disruptions, especially as we are also nearing the peak season.”
At present, AirAsia operates all domestic flights via Terminal 2 and Terminal 3 for international flights.
“In fully supporting NNIC’s great plans for NAIA, we trust that optimizing airport utilization will benefit everyone involved, especially our passengers who deserve the best experience possible,” the AirAsia management said.