The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) officially welcomed the inaugural flight of Iraero Airlines at Kalibo International Airport (KLO) on October 25, 2025, establishing a pivotal, new direct air link between the Philippines and the Russian Federation.
The first Iraero Airlines flight, originating from Irkutsk, Russia, arrived carrying a full complement of Russian tourists eager to explore the region’s world-class destinations, including Boracay Island.
Following this successful arrival, Iraero Airlines is scheduled to commence regular flights starting October 28, 2025. The new service will operate twice weekly, every Tuesday and Saturday, connecting Kalibo with the Russian cities of Irkutsk and Khabarovsk.
CAAP Director General retired Lt. Gen. Raul Del Rosario lauded the new service as a major milestone for regional connectivity.
“This direct link will not only boost tourism in Western Visayas but also promote valuable cultural and economic exchanges between the two nations,” said Lt. Gen. Del Rosario. “We view this as a strategic win for the regional economy.”
This initiative is fully aligned with the administration’s directives, under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Acting Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez, to modernize the aviation sector and strengthen international connectivity aggressively. The Authority continues to implement robust programs aimed at enhancing airport facilities and improving passenger experience across the country.
Lt. Gen. Del Rosario reaffirmed the Authority’s commitment to strategic development: “CAAP is taking proactive steps to future-proof the country’s aviation sector by investing in modern airport infrastructure, sustainable air transport systems, and expanded international partnerships.”
The new regular flights are expected to attract a steady stream of Russian visitors to Boracay and other regional tourist destinations, significantly contributing to the government’s goal of promoting inclusive and sustainable tourism growth across the Philippines.
