Air Travel in the Philippines

Because it consists of over 7,000 islands, the most efficient way to travel in the Southeast Asian nation of the Philippines is to take an airplane. Fortunately, its 50 years as an American colony left the country with an excellent air infrastructure.

Airports

The Philippines features ten international airports. Ninoy Aquino International in Manila is the largest and receives flights from all over the world. Mactan International and Iloilo International connect primarily to Southeast Asian cities. Over 200 domestic airports join the country together.

Airlines

Philippine Airlines is the country's flagship carrier, but smaller carriers compete for the domestic and Asian routes. In 2010, these include Cebu Pacific, Asian Spirit, PAL Express, South East Airlines, Air Philippines, Pacific Pearl Airways and Interisland Airlines.

Taxes

Flying to or within the Philippines requires payment of a departure tax. In addition, airline tickets bought abroad require an additional travel tax payment before the traveler departs the Philippines.

References

• CIA World Factbook: Philippines
• Philippines Portal: Airports