Philippine Airlines (PAL) reopened its Clark – Basco route recently (02 July 2024) in a milestone celebration at the Clark International Airport with airline officials and aviation industry stakeholders in attendance. 

Officials of the PAL Group, Department of Tourism Region 3, Luzon International Premiere Airport Development Corporation (LIPAD), Bases Conversion Development Authority (BCDA), and Clark Development Corporation (CDC) graced the event. 

The restored route now operates four times weekly (every Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday) via PR 2688 (Clark – Basco) departing Clark International Airport at 11:00 AM and arriving in Basco at 12:35PM. 

The Basco-Clark return service operates via PR 2689 on the same days, leaving the island at 01:00 PM, and touching down in the Central Luzon gateway at 2:35 PM. 

This direct service to picturesque Basco complements PAL’s daily Manila – Basco service. The PAL Clark gateway also operates daily flights to Cebu, thrice weekly flights to Boracay (Caticlan), and four times weekly to Coron (Busuanga). 

DOT Region 3 Director Richard Daenos said, “The flight represents the culmination of meticulous planning, coordination, and dedication, a testament of our commitment to enhance connectivity and to foster new opportunities for commerce, tourism, and cultural exchanges.” 

“As the flag carrier of the country, PAL represents the entire archipelago in the global aviation industry, enhancing its reputation and connectivity. The airline serves as a vital link for the Filipino diaspora, enabling easy travel for millions of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) together with their families. PAL's routes - especially to remote or underserved areas - are crucial for regional development and integration, ensuring that even less accessible regions benefit from air connectivity.”

For his part, CLARK LIPAD President and Chief Executive Officer Noel Manankil said, “We are thrilled to once again connect Clark to the breathtaking beauty of Batanes. This flight not only opens up opportunities to explore this unique destination but also strengthens our commitment towards convenient travel options for all. Your efforts contribute immensely to promoting tourism, and economic growth not only for Batanes but also for the entire Central Luzon.” 

PAL Express President Rabbi Vincent Ang said, “It gives us great pride to meet the demand for flights out of Central Luzon, a strategic gateway to Northern, Central and Southern Philippines. From Clark, leisure and business travelers can likewise connect to other PAL domestic destinations via our Cebu hub.” 

The PAL Group remains focused on building route capacity, fleet growth, and customer service innovations.

PAL's 86-seater De Havilland Dash 8 aircraft is given a water salute as it departed from Clark Airport for Basco, Batanes.