Bohol–Panglao International Airport (BPIA) hit a breakthrough moment with the first-ever landing of an Airbus A330 on November 16–a 459-seat Cebu Pacific wide-body now flying daily between Manila and Tagbilaran.
The touchdown doesn’t just mark a technical milestone; it signals Bohol’s move into a bigger league of tourism, connectivity, and commercial growth.
The wide-body approval follows months of behind-the-scenes upgrades by Aboitiz InfraCapital Bohol Airport Corporation (ABAC), which sharpened BPIA’s fire protection and rescue capability to meet stringent aviation standards.
New rescue equipment, more trained responders, and upgraded certifications—completed in lockstep with the Provincial Government of Bohol, the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), and the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP)—cleared the way for larger jets to operate safely.
Bohol Governor Erico Aristotle “Aris” Aumentado said Cebu Pacific’s move underscores the airline’s confidence in the province’s booming tourism sector and expanding economy. BFP Provincial Fire Marshal Fire Superintendent Raul G. Bustaliño, Jr. added that the joint effort ensures passengers and carriers benefit from top-tier emergency readiness.
With wide-body ops unlocked, BPIA can now welcome bigger tourist waves, offer airlines more capacity during peak season, and lay groundwork for future direct international routes. Aboitiz Operating Airports COO Terence Delomoney said the A330’s arrival reflects BPIA’s push toward world-class standards, greater connectivity, and more reasons for travelers to choose Bohol.
The milestone cements Bohol’s rise as one of the country’s fastest-growing tourism and investment hotspots—opening fresh opportunities for airlines, businesses, and local communities.
