Cebu gears up to host Route Asia conference

CEBU, Philippines — Cebu is preparing to host the Route Asia conference next year as this is seen to play a crucial role in increasing the province’s connectivity to the world.

The Mactan International Airport Authority (MCIAA) is preparing for this make-or-break event for Cebu, said MCIAA chief executive officer and general manager Steve Y. Dicdican.

He said this is a chance for Cebu to encourage more airlines to open direct flights from Cebu to other destination gateways around the globe.

In an interview, Dicdican said with the opening of Terminal 2, and the in place airport runway rehabilitation, Cebu is up to get the attention of airline operators.

 He said Cebu’s sweet-spot is its appeal to Low Cost Carrier (LCCs), hopefully after the hosting, Cebu will see more LCCs opening their flight access here.

MCIAA is working with stakeholders especially in the tourism sector to impress the delegates of the upcoming Route Asia Conference 2019.

Manila hosted the 2016 edition of Route Asia, the largest routes development forum in the region which brings together leading airlines, airports and their stakeholders to discuss air services to, from and within Asia.

Route Asia 2016 was attended by 1,200 international and local delegates composed of airlines, airports, tourism authorities and aviation data providers.