AirAsia Delays Davao Flights, Focuses on High-Demand Routes

Planning a trip to Davao soon? You might want to double-check your airline options because AirAsia Philippines has confirmed that flights to and from Davao are not resuming anytime soon.

While the airline is seeing growth in local travel and is expanding across popular routes, Davao is not part of its current priorities. Here is what you need to know.

Also read: Travel Toiletries Guide for Smart and Easy Packing

AirAsia is focusing on busier routes

Image credit: Deepak G Goswami | Wikimedia commons

AirAsia suspended its Manila to Davao flights back in January 2025. At the time, they cited operational challenges like limited aircraft and lower earnings from the route. Now, months later, those flights are still on pause.

The airline’s CEO, Ricky Isla, explained that they are now concentrating on routes that attract higher passenger demand. This means more flights connecting Manila with places like Caticlan for Boracay, Tagbilaran in Bohol, and Cebu, which continue to be in high demand.

AirAsia is streamlining its operations by focusing on destinations that offer better returns and stronger demand. This helps them stay competitive while offering reliable and affordable travel options.

Davao is still part of the bigger picture

Davao remains an important destination for AirAsia. However, the airline says it is not a priority at the moment. Other airlines already serve the route, and the market is more competitive, which affects profitability.

If you are travelling to Davao, you still have options. Other domestic airlines continue to operate on that route. So while AirAsia is not currently flying there, your trip can still go ahead with a different carrier.

It is all part of AirAsia’s growth strategy

AirAsia is working on strengthening its network by investing in high-performing routes. This strategy is part of its post-pandemic recovery plan. The goal is to improve operations, cut unnecessary costs, and offer better service on routes that support their long-term growth.

By prioritising efficiency, AirAsia can offer more frequent flights to popular destinations while ensuring a better travel experience for passengers.

What this means for your future trips

If you used to fly to Davao with AirAsia because of their low fares and travel promos, you may have to wait a bit longer for their return. But the good news is that other exciting destinations are now even more accessible with the airline’s expanding domestic network.

AirAsia has not ruled out returning to Davao in the future. For now, though, it is focusing on strengthening its presence in key leisure and business hubs.

Also read: Agoda, Trip.com Fined Over Misleading Flight Fares

Quick summary:

Image credit: Aeroprints.com | Wikimedia commons

• AirAsia is not flying to Davao for now

• The airline is focusing on routes with stronger demand like Boracay, Bohol, and Cebu

• Manila to Davao flights were paused in January 2025

• Other airlines still serve the Davao route

• There is a chance AirAsia will return to Davao, but no date has been announced

Looking for more travel updates and affordable flight tips? Stay tuned to our blog for the latest news on local airlines, new routes, and destination guides across the Philippines.