Dabawenyos now have more reasons to transit via the Mactan Cebu International Airport as it showcased eight airline companies servicing the airport last January 31 at the Waterfront Insular Hotel Davao. With 21 international and 35 domestic destinations, there is no point in the world that cannot be reached from the Queen City of the South.
Aside from the number of flights going to and from Cebu, the highly-anticipated Terminal 2 of the airport will soon see operation. GMR Megawide Cebu Airport Corp.(GMCAC) CEO Andrew Acquaah-Harrison shared that they are currently 84 percent complete with the construction of their Terminal 2 with promised state-of-the-art upgrades with the interior and the services that will be first in the country or in Southeast Asia. GMCAC is the private operator currently managing MCIA.
Andrew also shared exciting developments for the existing terminal which will be turned into a full domestic gateway. “We will also be redesigning the existing terminal to meet the needs of the travellers. We want to enhance the travel experience for everyone.”
Present for the roadshow were AirAsia, Cathay Pacific, Cebu Pacific, China Eastern, Emirates, Eva Air, Philippine Airlines, and Xiamen Air who presented their product offerings and promotions at length.
So what does this mean for the travel experience and options for us Dabawenyos. Here are some notable and exciting destinations:
Paradise found
AirSwift is the domestic carrier that services the island resort of El Nido. With flights from Cebu to El Nido, it is the fastest way to see paradise until the carrier launches its Davao – El Nido direct flights come May.
To the Middle Kingdom
With direct and extensive connections to China through Hong Kong and Shanghai respectably, Cathay Pacific and China Eastern provide the best gateways into the Middle Kingdom and beyond. Travellers in transit on China Eastern can also get free city tours of Shanghai when on a layover of at least seven hours.
Around the Philippines and beyond
Philippine carriers AirAsia Philippines, Cebu Pacific and Philippine Airlines have extensive connections both domestic and international from Cebu. From Cebu, travellers on AirAsia can fly onward to Incheon, while Philippine Airlines recently launched their Cebu to Bangkok direct flights.
Traveling for kids and kids at heart
Taiwanesse carrier, EVA Air believes in making flights an unforgettable experience for the young and young-at-heart, as it offers flights co-branded with Japan’s Sanrio with select planes in its fleet carrying livery featuring famous Sanrio characters such as Hello Kitty, Little Twin Stars and even Badzmaru. The Cebu – Taipei flights are currently being serviced by the Gudetama themed plane with even the service and food all themed on Sanrio’s famous “lazy egg”.
Luxury travel redefined
For those who have extra money to burn and want to experience luxury in the sky, then book a flight to the Dubai and onward to Europe on Emirate’s First Class and experience the airline’s Private Suite and Shower Spa and their Airbus A380. There is also an onboard lounge where you can socialise with other guests 40,000 feet in the sky.
I have always been a fan of the changes at the Mactan Cebu International Airport and with the new Terminal 2 and upcoming renovation of Terminal 1 as well as the many options and destinations the airport has, air travel through Cebu is clearly a viable option now for the jetset Dabawenyo urbanites.
