AirSWIFT

AirSWIFT is not just a regional carrier, but a true guide to the world of tropical exoticism and secluded relaxation in the Philippines. As a boutique airline, it specializes in providing seamless access to the most picturesque corners of the archipelago, offering travelers a level of comfort and service that turns the flight into a pleasant start to their vacation. The company's main mission is to reduce travel time between popular resorts, allowing tourists to enjoy white sandy beaches rather than spending precious hours on complex connections.

Historically, the company began operations as Island Transvoyager Inc. (ITI) in 2002, serving guests of the elite El Nido Resorts. After rebranding in 2015, AirSWIFT expanded its horizons, becoming accessible to everyone wishing to visit the pearl of Palawan and other key destinations. Today, it is the only airline operating direct scheduled flights to Lio Airport in El Nido, making it an indispensable choice for connoisseurs of comfortable travel.

Features and Advantages of AirSWIFT:

The airline's main advantage is its unique route network connecting El Nido with the country's major transport hubs. Travelers can reach the famous lagoons of Palawan directly by flying from the capital, Manila, or from the central Visayan hub, Cebu City. This eliminates the need for long bus journeys from other airports on the island.

The company's fleet consists of modern ATR turboprop aircraft (models ATR 42-600 and ATR 72-600). These aircraft are ideally suited for the short runways of island airports while ensuring a high level of safety and comfort. The aircraft cabins are distinguished by their cleanliness and sufficient seat pitch for regional flights.

AirSWIFT actively develops tourism connectivity between islands. In addition to main routes, the company offers convenient flights for those wishing to combine visits to several resorts in one trip. For example, flights are available connecting El Nido with the island of Busuanga (Coron) and the popular resort area of Caticlan (gateway to Boracay), as well as with the city of Tagbilaran on Bohol island.

The company is owned by Ayala Land Inc., one of the largest developers in the Philippines, which guarantees high standards of operational activity and strict adherence to flight safety regulations. AirSWIFT crews are known for their friendliness and professionalism, creating an atmosphere of hospitality right on board the aircraft.

Airline Communication and Passenger Support

To resolve issues related to ticket booking, flight changes, or clarifying baggage rules, passengers can use several communication channels. AirSWIFT positions itself as a boutique airline with personalized service, so customer support operates quite efficiently, though office hours should be taken into account.

Official Website

The primary source of information and tool for managing your trip is the airline's official portal. Here you can not only purchase a ticket but also complete online check-in.

• Official Website: air-swift.com (available in English)

Contact Details

• Support and Booking: +63 (2) 5318 5940 (landline in Manila)
• Mobile Line (for urgent matters): +63 917 816 8763 (Globe Telecom)
• Email: info@air-swift.com — main address for general inquiries and feedback.
• Mobile App: Currently, the company recommends using the mobile version of the website, which is optimized for smartphones and allows for convenient booking management.

Social Media

It is convenient to follow news, promotions, and schedule changes through official social media pages. Often, you can receive a response faster via direct messages on Facebook than by email.

• Facebook: AirSWIFT Airlines Philippines
• Instagram: @airswift.airlines

Local Offices and Representatives

Airline offices are located at key points of the route network. You can contact representatives personally at airports or city sales offices.

• Head Office: Ayala Malls Manila Bay, Diosdado Macapagal Blvd, Parañaque City, Manila (usually open from 08:00 to 17:00).
• Hub in El Nido: Service counters and the sales office are located directly in the Lio Airport terminal, El Nido.
• Representation in Cebu: Office at Mactan-Cebu Airport (Cebu City), Domestic Departures Terminal.
• Counters at other airports: At Caticlan, Busuanga, and Tagbilaran airports, representatives work during flight check-in hours.

Support Operating Hours

Please note that telephone support and offices do not operate 24/7. Standard call center hours: daily from 08:00 to 19:00 local time. Outside working hours, it is recommended to send requests via email.

Important: Contact details, addresses, and phone numbers may change. We strongly recommend checking current information in the "Contact Us" section on the official airline website before departure.

Baggage Rules: What to Know Before You Fly

Since AirSWIFT uses compact ATR aircraft, baggage rules here are enforced more strictly than on large international liners. Space in the cabin and cargo holds is limited, so we recommend carefully reviewing the allowances to avoid extra costs at the airport when departing from Manila or other route points.

Carry-on Baggage

Uniform carry-on standards apply to all passengers, regardless of the fare. This is done to ensure the safety and comfort of all travelers on board.

• Weight: Maximum 7 kg per passenger.
• Dimensions: Bag dimensions must not exceed 18 x 13.5 x 9 inches (approximately 45 x 34 x 22 cm). This is important as overhead bins in ATR aircraft are smaller than standard ones.
• Additional Items: You are allowed to bring one small personal item, such as a handbag, laptop bag, or camera, which must fit comfortably under the seat in front of you.

Checked Baggage

Free baggage allowances depend on the class of the purchased ticket. AirSWIFT offers a flexible fare system that allows you to choose the best option for your journey, whether it's a short trip to El Nido or a long vacation.

• Promo / Value: Usually include a minimal baggage allowance (most often 10 kg) or do not include it at all (carry-on only).
• Premium: Standard allowance is usually 20 kg.
• Maximum Weight: No single piece of baggage may weigh more than 30 kg due to occupational health and safety rules for baggage handlers.

Excess Baggage

If you plan to bring many souvenirs or items, it is most cost-effective to pay for extra weight in advance (Pre-paid Baggage) via the airline's website or an agency — this must be done at least 4 hours before departure. Paying for excess weight directly at the check-in counter at the airport, for example in Cebu City, will be significantly more expensive.

Sports Equipment and Musical Instruments

The Philippines is a paradise for divers and surfers, but transporting equipment requires preparation. Due to the limited volume of the cargo hold, AirSWIFT asks to be notified about the transport of non-standard baggage in advance.

• Sports Equipment: Surfboards, diving equipment (tanks must be empty), or golf bags are accepted for carriage for an additional fee. Given the popularity of diving on the island of Busuanga, space for equipment on flights can fill up quickly.
• Musical Instruments: Small instruments can be taken into the cabin if they fit within carry-on dimensions. Large instruments (guitars, cellos) must be checked in hard cases or a separate seat must be purchased for them in the cabin (Extra Seat).

Prohibited and Restricted Items

As with all flights within the Philippines, there are specific restrictions that tourists often forget:

• Cane Umbrellas: Often prohibited in carry-on luggage and must be checked in. Collapsible umbrellas are usually allowed.
• Power Banks and Lithium Batteries: Allowed only in carry-on baggage. It is strictly forbidden to check them in. Devices must have clear power markings.
• Liquids: Containers no larger than 100 ml packed in a transparent bag are allowed in carry-on luggage.

Tips for Effective Packing

For flights on small aircraft, it is better to use soft bags or backpacks rather than hard plastic suitcases. Soft luggage is easier to stow in the ATR cargo hold. If you are flying with a connection, for example through Caticlan, ensure your luggage is securely protected from moisture and dust, but remains easily identifiable.

Traveling with Pets

AirSWIFT understands that for many travelers, a vacation on the islands is incomplete without a four-legged friend. However, due to fleet specifics (ATR turboprop aircraft), pet transport rules here are stricter than those of major international carriers. To ensure the flight goes smoothly, it is important to review current requirements in advance.

On-board Placement Rules

A key difference between AirSWIFT and many other airlines lies in the policy regarding pets in the aircraft cabin. Due to limited space under seats and strict safety regulations, the following rules apply:

In the Cabin

The transport of domestic animals (cats, dogs, and other pets) in the passenger cabin on AirSWIFT flights is prohibited. Exceptions are made only for:

• Service Animals: Guide dogs and service animals are allowed in the cabin free of charge provided they have appropriate certificates confirming their status and training. The dog must be muzzled and stay at the owner's feet without blocking the aisle.

In the Baggage Hold (Checked Baggage)

All domestic pets travel exclusively in the aircraft's baggage hold. This compartment in ATR aircraft is pressurized and suitable for transport; however, owners must provide a secure crate.

• Container Type: Only hard containers (plastic or metal) approved by IATA are permitted. Soft carrier bags are strictly prohibited for transport in the baggage hold as they do not provide adequate protection for the animal.
• Construction: The crate must have a secure lock (which the animal cannot open from the inside), ventilation openings, and a waterproof bottom lined with absorbent material.
• Size: The container must be spacious enough for the animal to stand at full height, turn around, and lie down in a natural position.

Necessary Documents

Philippine authorities strictly control the movement of animals between islands to prevent the spread of rabies. For departure, for example from Manila or any other airport, you will require a full set of documents:

• Shipping Permit: A mandatory document issued by the Bureau of Animal Industry of the Philippines. It must be obtained before the trip.
• Veterinary Passport: With current data on the owner and pet.
• Vaccination Certificate: A valid rabies vaccination is mandatory. It must be administered no less than 14 days and no more than one year before the departure date.
• Health Certificate: A medical certificate from a veterinarian confirming that the animal is healthy and free of parasites (usually valid for 3 days).

Cost and Booking

Animals are not included in the free baggage allowance. The service is paid additionally according to excess baggage rates or special fixed rates per flight segment.

• Advance Notification: Since space in the ATR baggage hold is limited, you must notify the airline about pet transport at least 48 hours before departure. On popular routes, such as El Nido, the quota for live animals fills up very quickly.
• Payment: Usually made at the airport during check-in, based on the total weight of the animal together with the crate.

Breed and Health Restrictions

AirSWIFT prioritizes the safety of pets. There are several restrictions under which transport may be refused:

• Brachycephalic Breeds: Dogs and cats with snub noses (Pugs, Bulldogs, Pekingese, Persian cats) are at high risk of respiratory problems during flight. The airline may refuse to transport them in the baggage hold due to the risk of overheating and stress. It is recommended to clarify this issue with support in advance.
• Age and Condition: Animals younger than 3 months, as well as pregnant females and sick animals, are not permitted to fly.

Tips for Flight Preparation

Flying is stressful for an animal, especially if the route involves connections, for example through Cebu City. Prepare in advance:

• Crate Training: Allow your pet to get used to the hard container at home several weeks before the trip.
• Labeling: Be sure to place a "Live Animal" sticker on the container and indicate the pet's name, as well as your contact details (phone and destination address).
• Feeding: Do not feed the animal a heavy meal before departure (at least 4 hours prior), but ensure access to water until the moment of handover to baggage.
• Sedatives: Do not use sedatives without a direct recommendation from a veterinarian, as they can negatively affect the animal's blood pressure and thermoregulation during the flight.

Loyalty Program

Currently, AirSWIFT does not have its own cumulative bonus system or status levels for frequent flyers. The carrier operates as a "boutique airline," where the main priority is not accumulating miles, but exclusive service, speed, and unique flight geography allowing access to hard-to-reach resorts without layovers.

It is important to consider recent corporate changes: AirSWIFT has become part of the Cebu Pacific group, the country's largest low-cost carrier. Despite this, at this stage, the companies maintain operational independence. This means that the popular Go Rewards loyalty program active on the parent company's flights is not yet integrated with the AirSWIFT system. Passengers should know that Go Rewards points are not awarded for T6 flights and cannot be used to pay for bookings.

The actual privilege for the company's clients remains the ability to fly directly between the most beautiful islands of the archipelago, saving time on logistics. According to the current schedule, AirSWIFT's route network connects key tourist points:

• The most in-demand route connects the metropolis of Manila (NAIA Airport) and Lio Airport in the protected El Nido, providing over 200 flights per reporting period.
• For tourist convenience, direct flights are organized from other popular hubs: from Cebu City and from Caticlan airport (gateway to Boracay island) to El Nido.
• A unique feature is the availability of flights within the Palawan region: from El Nido, you can quickly reach the island of Busuanga (Coron), bypassing the capital.
• A direct flight from Bohol island is also available: planes fly directly to El Nido from Tagbilaran.

Instead of using miles, the airline suggests keeping an eye on seasonal promotions. AirSWIFT periodically hosts ticket sales (Seat Sales) on its social media pages and official website, allowing you to plan a trip at a favorable price.

Cabin Classes and Onboard Comfort

AirSWIFT positions itself as a boutique airline offering a higher level of service compared to typical low-cost carriers. A flight with T6 is part of your vacation, where comfort begins from the moment of boarding. Since the fleet consists of ATR 42-600 and ATR 72-600 turboprop aircraft, the cabin layout and services have their own unique features.

Cabin Configuration and Seats

All airline aircraft have a single-class layout. There is no physical separation into Business and Economy by curtains or partitions, yet the level of comfort remains consistently high for all passengers.

• 2-2 Seating Scheme: This is one of the main advantages for couples and those who dislike sitting in the middle. AirSWIFT aircraft lack middle seats: you will be seated either by the window or by the aisle.
• Ergonomics: Cabins are equipped with modern slim seats with leather upholstery. Seat pitch (distance between rows) is about 29–31 inches, which is quite sufficient for short flights lasting 1–1.5 hours.
• Cleanliness and Novelty: The -600 series aircraft feature modern interior design, improved noise insulation, and spacious (for this type of vessel) overhead bins.

Although the physical service class is singular, ticket fares (Value, Premium) can influence seat selection. Passengers with the Premium fare often have the right to free seat selection in the front of the cabin, allowing them to disembark first upon arrival in El Nido or other airports.

Food and Beverages

Unlike most Philippine carriers operating on a "pay for everything" model, AirSWIFT maintains traditions of hospitality. Light snacks are offered to passengers on all scheduled flights.

• Complimentary Snack: Flight attendants usually distribute branded paper "Snack Bags," which may contain a sandwich or pastry, as well as nuts or dried fruits.
• Beverages: The assortment usually includes bottled water and juice. Alcoholic beverages are generally not served on domestic flights.

This pleasant addition is especially appreciated by tourists flying on morning flights from Manila, as it allows for a light refreshment before the transfer to the hotel.

Entertainment and Atmosphere

ATR aircraft lack individual multimedia screens or Wi-Fi, which is typical for regional aviation. However, passengers do not get bored.

• Main Entertainment — The Window View: Since turboprop aircraft fly at a lower altitude than large liners, the flight turns into a real excursion. Upon approach to the island of Busuanga or El Nido, breathtaking views of turquoise lagoons, limestone cliffs, and coral reefs open up. Keep your camera ready!
• In-flight Magazine: In the seat pocket, you will find an In-flight Magazine with route maps and articles about the best places in the Philippines.

Special Services

AirSWIFT strives to make travel comfortable for all categories of passengers, but the technical features of small aircraft impose certain limitations.

Passengers with Children

The crew is very friendly towards young travelers. However, it is worth considering:

• There are no bassinets for infants on board, as partitions are not adapted for their attachment. Infants under 2 years old travel on their parents' laps.
• Aircraft lavatories usually have a fold-down changing table, but space is very limited.

Passengers with Reduced Mobility

The airline provides assistance to passengers with special needs but asks to be notified upon booking (at least 48 hours in advance).

• Boarding and Disembarking: In small airports, such as Cebu City (turboprop area) or Caticlan, boarding is often done on foot across the tarmac. ATR aircraft have a built-in stair (a few steps).
• Staff Assistance: If a passenger cannot climb the stairs independently, ground staff use special equipment (ambulifts, where available) or help lift them manually using a special wheelchair (WCHR).
• On-board wheelchairs are not available in the cabin due to the narrow aisle.

Priority Service

At Lio Airport (the airline's hub), a special air-conditioned lounge with free drinks and snacks has been created for AirSWIFT passengers, making the wait for a flight, for example to Tagbilaran, as relaxing as possible. This contrasts sharply with the noisy terminals of other airports and highlights the airline's "resort" status.

The AirSWIFT route network focuses on ensuring convenient connections between the most popular resorts in the Philippines. The airline's base airport and main hub is El Nido (Lio Airport), from where direct flights to key transport hubs and archipelago islands are operated, allowing tourists to avoid long layovers.

Booking and Flight Tips

Traveling with AirSWIFT is often the fastest and most beautiful way to reach the gems of the Philippines, but like any boutique airline, it has its nuances. To ensure your flight is as comfortable as possible and your budget remains intact, we have gathered several useful recommendations from experienced travelers.

Best Time to Buy Tickets

The main rule when planning a trip with AirSWIFT: buy tickets as early as possible. Since the airline holds a monopoly on direct flights to Lio Airport (El Nido), ticket prices rise dynamically as the plane fills up. The optimal booking window is 2–3 months before departure. Attempting to buy a ticket on the day of travel or a week before departure can cost 2-3 times more, especially on the popular route from Manila.

How to Catch Good Fares and Promotions

Although AirSWIFT is not a classic low-cost carrier, the company periodically holds sales known as "Seat Sales." To avoid missing price drops:

• Subscribe to the airline's official pages on Facebook and Instagram. Flash sale announcements appear there most often.
• Plan flights for weekdays. Flights on Tuesday or Wednesday are often cheaper than on Friday or Sunday.
• If you are planning a complex itinerary, for example flying from Bohol island (Tagbilaran) to Palawan, check prices for adjacent dates — the difference can be substantial.

Online Check-in and Seat Selection

We strongly recommend completing online check-in via the airline's website, which usually opens 48 hours before departure. This will save you time at the airport and allow you to select a seat in advance.

• Hunting for Views: Flights on turboprop aircraft take place at a relatively low altitude, guaranteeing stunning views. When flying to the island of Busuanga or to El Nido, try to book a Window Seat.
• Seating Specifics: Please note that due to the need to balance the small aircraft, the crew reserves the right to change your seat immediately before takeoff. Please treat this with understanding — it is a safety requirement.

Travel Insurance

Weather in the Philippines can be unpredictable. Typhoons or strong winds can cause flight delays or cancellations, especially for light ATR aircraft. When booking a flight, whether from the Cebu City hub or a small airport, be sure to take out travel insurance covering risks of flight cancellation and missed connections. This will save your nerves and money in case of force majeure.

Mobile Booking Management

At the moment, AirSWIFT does not have a "heavy" multifunctional mobile app in the usual sense. Use the mobile version of the official website to manage your flight. Tip: be sure to save PDF files of tickets and boarding passes to your phone or take screenshots. Internet at island airports (for example, at Caticlan airport) can be unstable, and having an offline copy of documents will significantly speed up passing through control.

History and Development of AirSWIFT

The history of AirSWIFT is a classic example of evolution from a closed private carrier to a key player in the Philippine tourism aviation market. The company's path is closely linked to the development of resort infrastructure in the Palawan region and the desire to make some of the world's most beautiful islands more accessible to travelers.

Founding and the ITI Era (2002–2015)

The airline's roots go back to 2002, when Island Transvoyager Inc. (ITI) was founded. At that time, it was an exclusive charter operator serving solely guests of the luxury El Nido Resorts hotels. Only clients who had booked accommodation at the resorts could get on board ITI planes. The fleet consisted of small Dornier 228 aircraft capable of landing on the short dirt strip in El Nido. This was the period of "club" aviation, when the flight was part of an elite service package.

Rebranding and Opening to the World (2015)

The turning point came in 2015 when the company underwent a major rebranding and changed its name to AirSWIFT. Management made the strategic decision to open ticket sales to the general public, ceasing to be a closed club. Parallel to this, the new Lio Airport terminal in El Nido was modernized and opened, becoming the carrier's main hub. This allowed thousands of independent tourists to reach the famous lagoons directly, bypassing long ground transfers.

Fleet Evolution

With the transition to scheduled transport, the approach to the fleet also changed. The company moved away from the old Dorniers in favor of modern and more spacious ATR turboprop liners. AirSWIFT became the first operator in the Philippines to start operating the newest ATR 42-600. Later, the fleet was replenished with larger ATR 72-600s. These aircraft were ideally suited for the specifics of short island runways while ensuring a high level of comfort and fuel efficiency.

Route Network Expansion

Having received new aircraft, AirSWIFT began aggressive expansion, connecting El Nido with the country's main tourism hubs. While flights were previously operated only from the capital, direct flights soon appeared from the central hub of the Visayas — Cebu City, as well as from Caticlan airport. The launch of the "El Nido — Boracay" route (via Caticlan) became a real hit, allowing tourists to combine two major Philippine beach destinations in one trip. Later, the network was supplemented by flights to the island of Busuanga and to Tagbilaran, completing the ring of popular routes.

Mergers and a New Chapter (2024)

An important milestone in modern history was the 2024 agreement, according to which AirSWIFT came under the wing of the Cebu Pacific group, which bought the airline from the Ayala Land holding. This merger opened new prospects for route integration and simplified logistics for international tourists arriving in Manila. Despite the change in ownership, AirSWIFT has retained its unique "boutique airline" identity, continuing to focus on premium service and unique destinations.