The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) welcomed the inaugural flight of Iraero Airlines to Kalibo Oct. 25, marking a new chapter in air connectivity between the Philippines and Russia.
The first Iraero Airlines flight from Irkutsk, Russia, carrying tourists, landed at the Kalibo International Airport Saturday, and CAAP announced that starting tomorrow, Oct. 28, the airline company will begin regular flights every Tuesday and Saturday between Kalibo and two Russian cities, Irkutsk and Khabarovsk.
CAAP director general, retired Lt. Gen. Raul Del Rosario, lauded the new service as 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 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.
Aside from flights from Russia, the airport also has daily direct flights from Incheon, South Korea, strengthening its role as a main international gateway in Western Visayas.
CAAP also continues to implement programs that enhance the country’s airport facilities and improve passenger experience, aligned with the directives of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and acting Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez to modernize the aviation sector and strengthen international connectivity.
Del Rosario said in a press release that they are 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. ||
