Philippines AirAsia

AirSwift (Z2) is an airline based in the capital of the Philippines, the city of Manila. The carrier specializes in passenger air transport, connecting the country's main transport hubs with popular tourist locations and international destinations. The company focuses on providing convenient connections for travellers planning their holidays in the Asian region.

Main Flight Destinations

The airline's route network covers key cities of the Philippine archipelago. Regular flights are operated from the main hub to Cebu City and Caticlan, which serves as a convenient access point to Boracay Island. The schedule also features frequent flights to Iloilo, Bacolod, and Tagbilaran. Travellers can utilize flights to Tacloban, Puerto Princesa in Palawan, Kalibo, as well as to major centres in the south of the country — Davao City and Cagayan de Oro.

The international flight programme connects the Philippines with important Asian metropolises. Passengers have access to direct flights connecting Manila with cities such as Taipei, Kuala Lumpur, and Tokyo. Additionally, the airline operates flights to Bangkok, Hong Kong, Macau, Seoul, and Osaka, as well as flights to Kaohsiung.

Onboard Service

AirSwift strives to maintain service standards, ensuring comfortable conditions for passengers during the flight. Particular attention is paid to punctuality and safety, making the airline a sought-after choice for both tourists and business travellers moving within the region.

For the prompt resolution of issues related to flights, booking changes, or schedule clarifications, passengers can use several channels to contact the airline. AirSwift's support service works to ensure travellers experience comfortable service at all stages of trip planning.

Official Website

The most up-to-date information on flights, baggage rules, and online check-in is available on the carrier's official resource. It is recommended to use the website for all ticket operations.

• Website: https://air-swift.com

Contact Details

• Support and Booking: +63 917 816 8763 (mobile), +63 2 5318 5940 (landline)
• Email: info@air-swift.com
• Working Hours: Daily from 08:00 to 17:00 (local time, subject to change on holidays)

Social Media

The airline actively maintains pages on social networks, where you can find out about new promotions, schedule changes, or ask simple questions via direct messages.

• Facebook
• Instagram

Offices and Representatives

If you require personal presence or assistance from staff on-site, you can visit the company's offices.

• Head Office: Ayala Malls Manila Bay, Diosdado Macapagal Blvd, Parañaque City, Philippines.
• Airport in Manila: Check-in counters and the airline office are located in Terminal 2 (NAIA Terminal 2). Please note: flights were previously serviced in Terminal 4, but as of November 2024, they have been moved to Terminal 2.
• El Nido: Office at Lio Airport, El Nido, Palawan.

Please take into account that contact details and departure terminals may change. We strongly recommend checking the latest information on the official airline website before departure.

Understanding baggage rules is key to a stress-free start to your holiday. AirSwift (Z2) operates on a model similar to most low-cost carriers in the region, so paying close attention to the weight and dimensions of your suitcases will help avoid unexpected fees at the airport. Below are the main standards and recommendations for passengers.

Cabin Baggage

All passengers, regardless of fare, are permitted to take cabin baggage on board. However, limits here are quite strict, and staff at check-in counters or the gate may verify the weight of bags.

• Weight: The total weight of cabin baggage must not exceed 7 kg.
• Number of Items: One main piece of luggage (e.g., a small trolley case or backpack) and one small personal item (laptop bag, handbag, or small rucksack) are allowed.
• Dimensions: The main piece of luggage must not exceed 56 cm x 36 cm x 23 cm (including handles and wheels). The personal item must fit freely under the seat in front of you (approximately 40 cm x 30 cm x 10 cm).

Checked Baggage

Checked baggage rules at AirSwift depend on the selected fare. On the most budget-friendly fares, checked baggage is often not included in the price and must be paid for separately. The airline offers a weight package system, allowing travellers to choose the optimal option.

• Available Options: Typically, passengers can pre-purchase packages of 20 kg, 25 kg, 30 kg, or 40 kg.
• Pooling Baggage: If you are flying as a group or family under one booking, baggage weight can often be pooled, but the weight of any single suitcase must not exceed 32 kg for the safety of baggage handlers.
• Tip: Purchase baggage allowance online when buying your ticket or via 'Manage Booking' no later than 4 hours before departure. Paying for baggage directly at the airport, whether in Manila or an international hub, will be significantly more expensive.

Excess Baggage

If the weight of your suitcase exceeds the paid limit, a fee is charged for each extra kilogram. Excess baggage rates at the airport are high. If you realize you are carrying more souvenirs than planned, it is more cost-effective to pre-purchase an additional weight package via the website or call centre than to pay for excess weight at the counter.

Sports Equipment and Musical Instruments

Special rules exist for transporting non-standard items. Ordinary baggage allowances may not apply to bulky equipment.

• Sports Equipment: Bicycles, diving gear, golf sets, or surfboards require payment of a special Sports Equipment Fee. Equipment must be securely packed in protective cases.
• Musical Instruments: Small instruments (e.g., a violin) that do not exceed cabin baggage dimensions and a weight of 7 kg can be taken into the cabin for free in place of cabin baggage. Larger instruments (cello, guitar) may require purchasing a separate seat in the cabin or checking them in with payment of the corresponding fee and signing a limited liability release form.

Prohibited and Restricted Items

For flight safety, strictly observe the rules regarding the separation of items between the cabin and the cargo hold.

• NOT allowed in Cabin Baggage: Sharp or cutting objects (scissors, multitools), liquids in containers exceeding 100 ml (even if the bottle is not fully filled).
• NOT allowed in Checked Baggage: Power Banks, spare lithium batteries, electronic cigarettes, lighters. These items must be carried only in cabin baggage on your person.

Tips for Efficient Packing

To ensure your flight with AirSwift (Z2) is comfortable, we recommend weighing your suitcases at home or using the control scales at the airport before approaching the check-in counter. To save space and weight, wear your bulkiest clothing and footwear. Always keep valuables, documents, money, and vital medication in your cabin baggage — never place them in checked luggage.

Rules for Transporting Animals

AirSwift (Z2) understands that pets are part of the family and provides opportunities for travelling with them on its flights within the Philippines. Since the company's fleet consists primarily of small regional aircraft, transport rules here are quite strict and require prior approval. We have prepared a guide to help you organize a comfortable flight for your pet.

Transport Options

In the Cabin (Cabin Baggage)

This option is suitable only for the smallest pets, provided the aircraft type permits it.

• Carrier Dimensions: Generally must not exceed 40×30×20 cm (must fit under the seat).
• Maximum Weight: Up to 7–8 kg including the container (soft carrier bag).
• Permitted Animals: Only cats and small dogs.
• Restrictions: The animal must be able to stand up and turn around freely inside the carrier.
• Limit: Usually one animal per passenger (the number of spots on a flight is limited).

In the Cargo Hold (Checked Baggage)

Animals exceeding the weight limit for the cabin travel in a special heated section of the cargo hold.

• Container Requirements: Rigid plastic box (IATA standard) with a metal door and a secure lock.
• Comfort: The bottom of the container must be covered with absorbent material (a pee pad).
• Ventilation: The container must have ventilation openings on three sides.
• Documents: Copies of veterinary documents must be attached to the cage.

As Cargo (For Large Animals)

If the weight of the animal combined with the cage is very high, or if you are sending the pet unaccompanied.

• When Required: For very large dogs or if there is no space in the baggage hold of a passenger flight.
• Procedure: Processed through the AirSwift Cargo terminal (often located separately from the passenger terminal).
• Details: Requires arrival at the airport (e.g., in the city of Manila) 3–4 hours before departure to complete the waybill.

Necessary Documents

For domestic flights within the Philippines (e.g., to Palawan), requirements can be stricter than in other countries.

• Veterinary Passport: With current details of the owner and pet.
• Vaccination Certificate: A valid rabies vaccination is mandatory (administered no less than 14 days and no more than one year before departure).
• Shipping Permit: Issued by the Bureau of Animal Industry of the Philippines. This is a critically important document for local flights.
• Veterinary Health Certificate: Obtained from a vet no earlier than 3 days before the trip.

Service Costs

Pet transport is not included in the free baggage allowance and is paid for additionally.

• In Cabin: Fixed fee (depends on the destination).
• In Cargo Hold: Usually calculated based on total weight (animal + cage) according to excess baggage rates or as special cargo.
• Important: Payment is most often made at the check-in counter at the airport.

Preparation Tips

To reduce stress for the animal, start preparation in advance.

• Familiarization with the Cage: Accustom your pet to the carrier several weeks before the flight.
• Feeding: Do not feed the animal a heavy meal less than 4 hours before departure, but provide water.
• Sedatives: Do not use sedatives without a strict recommendation from a veterinarian (they can be dangerous at altitude).
• Identification: Attach a tag with the pet's name and your phone number to the collar.

Restrictions

The airline reserves the right to refuse transport in certain cases.

• Brachycephalic Breeds: Dogs and cats with flattened faces (Pugs, Bulldogs, Persian cats) may not be permitted to fly due to the risk of respiratory problems.
• Age: Puppies and kittens under 3–4 months are usually not permitted.
• Condition: Pregnant females and sick animals are prohibited from transport.
• Exceptions: Service dogs and guide dogs may be transported free of charge in the cabin provided they have the appropriate certificates and a muzzle.

Important: The number of spots for animals on AirSwift flights is strictly limited. We strongly recommend contacting the airline directly via phone or email immediately after booking your ticket to confirm the possibility of transporting your pet.

AirSwift Loyalty Programme

AirSwift (Z2) offers its frequent passengers participation in the branded loyalty programme, SWIFT Rewards Club. This programme is designed specifically for travellers flying frequently to Palawan resorts and other domestic routes in the Philippines, allowing them to accumulate points for trips and receive privileges when booking.

Membership Tiers

Currently, the SWIFT Rewards Club programme has a simplified structure and is positioned as a club system without a complex hierarchy of public elite statuses (such as Silver or Gold in major alliances). The main focus is on points accumulation by all registered members.

• Club Member: The basic level assigned immediately after registration. It gives the right to earn points for flights, access special offers, and enjoy a simplified booking management process via a personal account.
• Privileges: The main advantage is the ability to use accumulated points to pay for future travel and to be the first to know about ticket sales for popular destinations, such as El Nido.

How to Earn Points

The process of earning bonuses in the SWIFT Rewards Club is transparent and focused on passenger activity.

• Flights: Points are awarded for every ticket purchased on regular AirSwift flights. The number of points awarded depends on the fare cost and destination. Important: to earn points, you must log in to your personal account before purchasing a ticket.
• Activity Conditions: Points are generally valid indefinitely, provided the member remains active in the programme (conditions may change; it is recommended to check current rules on the website).

How to Spend Points

Using accumulated funds makes repeat trips to the islands more affordable.

• Free Tickets: The primary way to use points is for full or partial payment of flight tickets on AirSwift.
• Fare Discounts: You can reduce the cost of a flight by redeeming an available portion of your bonus balance when placing an order on the website.

Alliance Membership

AirSwift is an independent regional airline and currently is not part of global aviation alliances (such as Star Alliance, SkyTeam, or oneworld).

• Partnership: In October 2024, the airline was acquired by Cebu Pacific. Future integration with the Go Rewards loyalty programme is possible, but for the moment, SWIFT Rewards Club functions as a separate system.

How to Join

Becoming a member of the programme is quick and free.

• Online Registration: Go to the official airline website, find the "SWIFT Rewards" or "Log in / Sign up" section, and fill out a simple form.
• Requirements: Membership is available for passengers of any age (usually from 2 years old), which is convenient for family travel.

AirSwift (Z2) strives to make air travel accessible and pleasant, offering service that combines the efficiency of a low-cost model with traditional Filipino hospitality. Whether you are flying a short distance within the archipelago or embarking on an international journey, the company ensures a decent level of comfort on board.

Classes of Service

Currently, the airline's fleet features a single-class layout, offering passengers accommodation in Economy class. This allows for optimized ticket costs and competitive prices on popular routes. Despite the absence of a business class, service is organized so that every passenger feels the crew's care.

• Economy Class: The main and sole class of service. Passengers receive a standard set of services, including the flight and cabin baggage. Additional options, such as seat selection or meals, can be added upon request for a separate fee.

Seats and Onboard Comfort

AirSwift aircraft cabins are equipped with ergonomic leather-upholstered seats designed for comfortable medium-haul travel. The seat design is developed to provide sufficient legroom, complying with industry standards for regional transport.

• Configuration: Seating arrangements depend on the type of aircraft operating the flight. On most routes, a standard layout is provided, ensuring convenient aisle access.
• Seat Selection: If you wish to sit by the window to enjoy the views when approaching Cebu City, or prefer an aisle seat for a quick exit after landing in Manila, it is recommended to use the Seat Selection service when booking your ticket.

Meals and Beverages

The onboard dining concept at AirSwift (Z2) is built on the "pay for what you choose" principle. Meals are typically not included in the base fare, which is characteristic of budget carriers.

• Pre-order Meals: For flights longer than one hour, as well as on international routes, the airline offers a hot meal pre-order service. The menu includes popular Asian dishes, hearty sandwiches, and vegetarian options. It is recommended to place orders no later than 24 hours before departure.
• Onboard Purchase: During the flight, cabin crew offer an assortment of light snacks, instant noodles, as well as refreshments and hot beverages. Payment on board is usually accepted in cash (local currency).

Entertainment and Connectivity

AirSwift aircraft generally do not have multimedia system monitors built into the seats. Passengers are advised to download movies, music, or books to their personal mobile devices in advance.

The main entertainment on many routes, especially when flying to Caticlan or Puerto Princesa, remains the stunning views from the window of tropical islands and the azure sea. The in-flight magazine, if available in the seat pocket, also helps pass the time and provides information about new tourism developments in the region.

Special Services

The airline strives to ensure equal opportunities for all travellers and offers a range of special services upon prior request.

• Passengers with Reduced Mobility: AirSwift provides assistance with boarding and disembarking, as well as space for stowing wheelchairs (in the cargo hold). A request for assistance must be made via the call centre at least 48 hours before the flight.
• Travel with Children: Infants (under 2 years) may fly on a parent's lap for a small fee. Standard fares apply for older children. The crew is always ready to assist with stowing cabin baggage and warming baby food, provided the specific aircraft's equipment allows it.
• Unaccompanied Minors: An escort service for children travelling without adults is available on certain routes and requires mandatory document processing at the sales office or departure airport.

The route network of AirSwift (Z2) is focused on providing convenient connections between popular resorts in the Philippines and major regional transport hubs. The majority of flights are operated through the base hub in the city of Manila, from where tourists can easily reach picturesque islands or embark on an international journey. Below is a table of the airline's most popular routes.

Travelling with AirSwift (Z2) requires careful planning so that your holiday begins with pleasant impressions rather than bustle at the airport. Given that the airline's route network combines both picturesque regional destinations and busy international routes, the preparation process for departure has its nuances. We have compiled recommendations that will help you save time and peace of mind.

Early Booking

The airline's destinations are in high demand, especially during peak seasons (Christmas, Easter, Chinese New Year). Tickets for popular resort routes, such as Cebu City or Caticlan (gateway to Boracay), are recommended to be purchased 2–4 months before the trip. This not only guarantees seat availability but often allows for savings, as prices increase significantly closer to the departure date.

Online Check-in and Airport Time

To avoid queues, we strongly recommend completing Web Check-in via the website or mobile app, if this option is available for your flight. This is particularly relevant for departures from major hubs. If you are flying via the city of Manila, allow at least 3 hours for travel and formalities for international flights and 2 hours for domestic ones, as traffic in the capital and security queues can be unpredictable.

Documents and Printouts

Although many travellers are accustomed to digital media, we advise having a printed itinerary receipt and return ticket with you. Security staff at Philippine airports often check documents at the terminal entrance. For international flights, for example, from cities like Tokyo or Taipei, be sure to check visa requirements and passport validity in advance.

Connecting Flights

AirSwift operates primarily as a point-to-point carrier. If your itinerary involves a self-transfer (e.g., you arrive on an international flight and transfer to a domestic flight to El Nido), allow a sufficient time margin — minimum 4 hours. This time is necessary for baggage claim, terminal change in Manila (which can take time due to traffic), and re-check-in.

Seat Selection

If your flight passes over the islands during daylight hours, book a Window Seat in advance. Views of the archipelago, lagoons, and coral reefs from flying altitude are a unique experience worth the effort. On longer flights, pre-selecting a seat will ensure additional comfort for you.

Delay Insurance

Weather in the tropical region is changeable, and flights may be delayed or rescheduled due to typhoons or strong winds. Purchasing travel insurance that covers risks of flight cancellation and missed connections is a sensible investment that will protect your budget from unforeseen expenses for hotels or new tickets.

History and Development

The history of AirSwift (Z2) is a vivid example of how a specialized operator can grow into a significant player in the tourist transport market. The company has gone from servicing exclusive resorts to the status of a recognizable brand connecting key points of the Philippine archipelago.

Foundation and Early Years

The airline's origins date back to 2002, when Island Transvoyager (ITI) was founded. Initially, the carrier was created with one specific goal: to provide comfortable and fast transfers for guests of the elite El Nido Resorts group. In those years, reaching the northern part of Palawan was a difficult task, and the launch of direct charter flights from the city of Manila became a real breakthrough for tourism development in the region. ITI operated small Dornier 228 aircraft, offering clients an atmosphere of privacy even before the start of their holiday.

Rebranding and Expansion of Operations

A key moment in the carrier's history was 2015. Management decided to move beyond charter transport and offer its services to a wider audience. As a result of a large-scale rebranding, the airline received its current name — AirSwift. The name change marked a transition to a model of regular commercial flights, which allowed independent travellers to plan trips to El Nido and other picturesque corners of the country more easily.

Fleet Evolution

To support regular flights, a fleet update was required. The company relied on reliable turboprop aircraft manufactured by ATR. The introduction of ATR 42-600 models and the higher-capacity ATR 72-600 allowed for increased passenger comfort and improved operational efficiency. These aircraft are ideally suited for short runways on the islands while maintaining high safety standards.

Route Network Development

As AirSwift's popularity grew, it expanded its flight geography. The airline ceased to be limited only to routes to El Nido. The schedule began to include flights connecting popular tourist hubs directly, bypassing the congested capital. Flight programmes were launched to Cebu City, connections were opened with Boracay Island via Caticlan airport, and links were established with Bohol Island via Tagbilaran airport. This strategy allowed tourists to combine visits to several islands within a single holiday.

Modern Stage and New Prospects

The newest chapter in the airline's history began in October 2024, when the acquisition of AirSwift by the Philippines' largest low-cost carrier — Cebu Pacific — was announced. This deal opens new horizons for the carrier: integration into a larger route network and access to modern booking technologies. Despite the change of ownership, the airline continues to maintain its unique profile focused on quality service for tourists striving to see the beauty of the Philippines.