PAL Ends Manila–Basco Flights, All Trips to Batanes Now Depart From Clark

As of October 26, 2025, Philippine Airlines (PAL) has stopped operating the route between Manila and Basco, marking the end of one of its oldest domestic services. Travellers going to Batanes must now fly from Clark International Airport in Pampanga instead. 

The change is part of the government’s NAIA decongestion programme, which moves PAL’s turboprop operations out of Manila.

Image credit: Clark International Airport

Travellers heading to Batanes will now fly through the Clark–Basco–Clark service.

Here’s the updated schedule:

• Flights: PR 2688 (Clark–Basco) and PR 2689 (Basco–Clark)

• Days: Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday

• Clark Departure: 11:00 AM, arriving in Basco at 12:35 PM

• Basco Departure: 1:00 PM, arriving in Clark at 2:35 PM

• Aircraft: 86-seater De Havilland Dash 8 Q400

This replaces the former Manila–Basco–Manila route that PAL had operated since 1947, one of its oldest domestic services.

Image credit: Canva Pro

For most tourists, this means an extra stop before reaching Batanes. Those coming from Metro Manila will now need to travel to Clark, which takes around two to three hours by land depending on traffic.

The move also affects travellers from nearby provinces who usually prefer the convenience of NAIA. On the upside, flights from Clark often have shorter queues and fewer delays, making it less stressful to check in and board.

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PAL said the change aims to meet rising demand for Clark-based flights and to strengthen Central Luzon’s connectivity.

“Clark remains a strategic gateway to Northern, Central, and Southern Philippines,” said PAL Express President Rabbi Vincent Ang. “From Clark, travellers can connect to other PAL destinations such as Cebu, Coron, and Boracay.”

Clark LIPAD President Noel Manankil added that the route “supports tourism growth for both Central Luzon and Batanes.”

Also read: Don’t Visit Batanes Until You Read This

PAL’s Manila–Basco flights have been an important link for both locals and visitors, especially since Batanes remains one of the most expensive and least accessible destinations in the Philippines. With limited flights, unpredictable weather, and high fares, reaching the country’s northernmost province has always been a challenge.

Now that all flights will be based in Clark, travellers might need to spend more time and money on transfers.

Philippine Airlines’ decision to move its Batanes flights from Manila to Clark marks a major adjustment for travellers. While it may add extra travel time for those from the capital, it also strengthens Clark’s position as a key air hub in Luzon.

Featured image credit: Spot with JV | Facebook