Avion Express Philippines, a subsidiary of the world’s largest ACMI provider Avia Solutions Group, has officially received a Temporary Operating Permit (TOP) from the Civil Aeronautics Board (CAB). This crucial authorization sets the stage for the airline’s entry into the Philippines’ competitive aviation sector.
With operations planned at Clark International Airport, the airline will soon begin ACMI (Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, and Insurance) services once it welcomes its first aircraft, expected in November this year. This moment signals a new chapter for a carrier ready to meet the country’s rising demand for air travel.
Understanding the Temporary Operating Permit
The Temporary Operating Permit serves as a provisional approval, allowing Avion Express Philippines to advance toward full operations while working to obtain its Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity (CPCN) from the CAB and an Air Operator Certificate (AOC) from the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP).
For now, passengers won’t see Avion Express Philippines tickets on sale, but behind the scenes, the airline is setting up critical operations—from fleet readiness to crew recruitment—to ensure a smooth entry into service.
Avion Express Philippines to Address Seasonal Capacity Needs
The mission of Avion Express Philippines is to bridge seasonal aircraft capacity gaps through ACMI leasing. Demand is rising fast: air passenger traffic in the Philippines grew by 11% in the first quarter of 2025, fueled by domestic tourism growth and better international connections.
Projections from the International Air Transport Association (IATA) confirm the Asia-Pacific region—including the Philippines—will see the fastest passenger growth worldwide over the next two decades. Meeting this demand requires flexible, scalable solutions.
Why ACMI is Vital for Philippine Airlines
Chairman Martynas Grigas explains: “While the region’s aviation sector is recovering well after the pandemic, with passenger numbers continuing to pick up, the availability of aircraft has not matched the recovery rate.”
ACMI leasing is a turnkey service—delivering aircraft, crew, maintenance, and insurance—that allows airlines to scale up quickly during peak seasons, replace grounded planes, or test new routes without costly commitments.
For the Philippines—where tourism is set to account for 20% of GDP this year—this model supports both economic growth and greater passenger choice.
Avion Express Philippines to Support Tourism and Connectivity
Tourism is at the heart of the country’s economy, according to the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC). The airline intends to assist the Department of Tourism in connecting both major hubs and remote regional airports.
Through wet lease ACMI services, the airline enables other carriers to launch or expand routes without long-term risk. This flexibility could open up lesser-known tourist destinations, boosting regional economies and visitor diversity.
Fleet Expansion Plans for Avion Express Philippines
In its first year, Avion Express Philippines will operate a single Airbus A320, with plans to add two more aircraft by mid-2026. This growth will allow the company to serve multiple airline partners in the Philippines and Southeast Asia, offering short-term capacity boosts as needed.
Its parent company, Avia Solutions Group, operates 209 passenger and cargo aircraft worldwide and offers services from MRO to pilot training. This backing ensures that Avion Express Philippines benefits from global expertise and operational excellence from day one.
Strategic Advantage of Clark International Airport
Clark International Airport was chosen as the base for Avion Express Philippines due to its reduced congestion compared to Manila’s main airport and its excellent connectivity to Luzon and Central Philippines.
This location strengthens the airline’s ability to rapidly deploy aircraft to both domestic and regional partners, making it a key ACMI hub in Southeast Asia.
Impact on Airlines and Travelers
For airlines, this company means operational flexibility and resilience during unexpected demand spikes or fleet issues. For travelers, it translates into more flights, better connectivity, and fewer cancellations.
Even if passengers never see the airline’s name on their boarding pass, its behind-the-scenes role ensures they can enjoy a smoother travel experience.
The CAB-issued temporary operating permit allows the company to prepare its ACMI operations while awaiting full certification. It’s a vital step toward the airline’s official launch.
Through its ACMI model—providing aircraft, crew, maintenance, and insurance—the company will help carriers quickly boost capacity, handle peak demand, and test new routes without major investments.
Clark offers excellent connectivity and less congestion compared to Manila’s main airport. This strategic base enables the airline to deploy aircraft rapidly across the Philippines and Southeast Asia.
Conclusion: Avion Express Philippines Ready for Takeoff
With its Temporary Operating Permit secured, Avion Express Philippines is poised to become a crucial partner for Philippine and regional airlines. Its flexible ACMI model will help carriers meet growing demand, expand routes, and support tourism—all while ensuring passengers benefit from more choices and improved reliability.
Moreover, the company brings a wealth of international experience and operational excellence to the region. By leveraging its global expertise in aircraft leasing and crew management, the company can offer tailored solutions that adapt to the dynamic needs of local carriers. This strategic approach not only enhances fleet efficiency but also reduces operational risks for partner airlines. As the aviation industry rebounds from recent challenges, the airline is well-positioned to play a pivotal role in driving sustainable growth, fostering innovation, and elevating service standards across Southeast Asia.
What’s your view? How do you think ACMI services like those from Avion Express Philippines will change air travel in the country? Share your opinion in the comments below.
