The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines welcomed the inaugural flight of the Russia-based Iraero Airlines to Kalibo, which the CAAP said marks a new chapter in air connectivity between the Philippines and Russia.
The first Iraero Airlines flight from Irkutsk, Russia landed at Kalibo International Airport on Oct. 25, carrying Russian tourists.
Iraero Airlines will begin its regular flights every Tuesday and Saturday between Kalibo and Russian cities Irkutsk and Khabarovsk starting tomorrow.
The new flights are expected to attract more Russian visitors to Boracay and other tourist destinations in the region, further supporting the government’s goal of inclusive and sustainable tourism growth.
CAAP chief Raul del Rosario said the new service is a milestone for regional connectivity, noting that the direct link will not only boost tourism in Western Visayas but also promote cultural and economic exchanges between the two nations.
‘The CAAP is taking proactive steps to future-proof the country’s aviation sector by investing in modern airport infrastructure, sustainable air transport systems and expanded international partnerships,’ Del Rosario said.
Meanwhile, CAAP also welcomed Philippine Airlines’ inaugural flight from Cebu to Calbayog in Samar yesterday, with PAL plying the route every Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday.
In Nueva Vizcaya, CAAP allotted P12.5 million from its 2026 budget for the rehabilitation of Bagabag Airport.
The amount will cover the construction of a new fire station and purchase of a firetruck – requirements for the airport’s reopening.
Gov. Jose Gambito said restoring the airport remains a top priority, noting that limited access to and from Metro Manila hampers growth.
He said the Nueva Vizcaya government would shell out a counterpart fund for additional improvements, including the perimeter fence.