Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA) is kicking off December with a major expansion of its international flights, giving Cebu a stronger presence on the global travel map.
In the first week of December, the airport welcomed three new direct routes. Firefly Airlines launched its Cebu–Kuala Lumpur service on December 2, operating five times weekly and becoming the second carrier to connect Cebu with Malaysia’s capital.
The following day, Vietnam Airlines inaugurated its nonstop Cebu–Hanoi flight, flying three times weekly and creating a direct link between Central Visayas and Vietnam.
On the same day, Jetstar Airways opened its Cebu–Brisbane route, also flying three times a week, with plans to increase frequency to four weekly flights starting February 2026.
The inaugural flights were marked by traditional water-cannon salutes and welcoming ceremonies at MCIA.
Airport officials say the new routes will boost tourism, business, and cultural exchange. Cebuano travelers can now reach Kuala Lumpur’s shopping districts, Hanoi’s historical landmarks, and Brisbane’s city attractions more conveniently.
Visitors from these cities, in turn, have easier access to Cebu’s beaches, dive spots, islands, and local cuisine.
Aboitiz InfraCapital Cebu Airport Corporation CEO Athanasios Titonis emphasized the significance of the new routes.
“Opening direct flights to Kuala Lumpur, Hanoi, and Brisbane gives travelers more options and opens Cebu to new markets in the region,” he said.
MCIA General Manager Julius Neri Jr. added that the connections strengthen regional cooperation.
“Direct flights link people, economies, and cultures. By adding these three cities to our network, MCIA creates more reasons for visitors to discover Cebu,” he said.
The Vietnam Airlines inaugural flight was attended by Vietnamese Ambassador to the Philippines Lai Thai Bình, Department of Tourism Director Zeny Pallugna, Vietnam Airlines Country Manager Đoàn Vũ, and MCIAA Public Affairs Head Mary Ann Dimayabao.
Operated by Aboitiz InfraCapital Cebu Airport Corporation, MCIA continues to enhance connectivity through programs such as CEBConnects, Cebu+, and CEBBalik.
The airport, recognized as Best Airport in Asia-Pacific in the 5–15 million passengers category at the 2024 Airport Service Quality Awards, also operates the Philippines’ first parallel runways, improving efficiency and capacity.
