Philippine Airlines to push through with Manila-Saipan flights despite energy crisis

Philippine Airlines (PAL) will proceed with its new Manila-Saipan service despite an energy crisis in the Philippines and the recent suspension of Cebu-Guam flights, with a senior regional executive assuring the Northern Marianas route remains a priority.

PAL regional head for Japan, Korea and Oceania Bryan Sansolis said the situation has so far only affected select routes, with the Cebu network bearing the brunt of temporary cuts, while services linking Manila, Saipan and Guam continue as planned.

"We're really keen on supporting the Saipan route … it will not affect the new routes," Sansolis said, adding the airline is "approaching this in a very prudent manner" while monitoring global fuel and geopolitical pressures.

The launch comes as the CNMI pushes to rebuild air links and diversify tourism markets, with PAL committing to a twice-weekly Monday and Thursday service using an Airbus A321-CEO configured with 12 business class and 187 economy seats.

Sansolis also underscored the importance of the Guam-CNMI visa waiver, saying easing entry requirements would help further propagate passenger demand and unlock more inbound travel from the Philippines and beyond.

While outbound demand from Manila remains steady, he acknowledged inbound traffic to Saipan is still constrained by visa requirements for Filipino travelers.

"Going to Saipan, there is interest, but as a visa-required destination, the market will be limited," he said, noting PAL is also exploring Manila's role as a transit hub for regional travelers, including potential Chinese traffic once slot and scheduling issues are resolved.

Despite broader uncertainty, the airline said it has sufficient fuel and operational capacity to sustain the new route and plans additional promotions following the inaugural flight.

The Saipan launch ceremony will include a water cannon salute for the arriving aircraft, a ribbon-cutting, and a symbolic boarding pass signing before the return flight departs for Manila in the early morning hours.