Air fare hike approved

Domestic plane passengers will soon be paying 10 percent more in fares.

The Civil Aeronautics Board (CAB) has approved the petitions for a 10-percent fare hike filed by three domestic air carriers to cover rising cost of operations and maintenance.

CAB deputy executive director Carmelo Arcilla pointed out that the new fare rates will take effect 15 days after the board’s resolution has been published in newspapers of general circulation.

"The increase was approved during a meeting of the CAB last Jan. 28. We took into consideration the reasons given by the airlines — that their expenses for operations and maintenance are rising," Arcilla said.

The petitions were filed by Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific and Air Philippines last November. – Sheila Crisostomo