CAB downgrades fuel surcharge to Level 5 for Sept

Lower airfares are expected to greet travelers in September as the Civil Aeronautics Board (CAB) downgraded the fuel surcharge level for both domestic and international flights from Level 6 to Level 5.

Under Level 5, the fuel surcharge for domestic passenger flights will range from PHP151 to PHP542, while for international flights originating from the Philippines it ranges from PHP498.03 to PHP3,703.11, depending on distance.

Cebu Pacific welcomed this decision as a positive development for offering more affordable travel options and boosting connectivity across its hubs.

AirAsia Philippines noted that the reduction in fuel surcharge levels will likely impact public booking behavior positively, encouraging travelers to save on airfares and allocate additional funds for other expenses.

The CAB advises airlines wishing to impose or collect fuel surcharges during this period to file their applications with the office before the effectivity date.

Local airlines anticipate an increase in passenger volume following the reduction of fuel surcharges, as both Cebu Pacific and AirAsia Philippines have reported positive impacts on booking behavior.