As 2025 draws to a close, Cebu celebrates a landmark year in aviation and tourism, marked by a significant expansion of its flight network. From new domestic island links to long-haul international milestones, the “Queen City of the South” has officially strengthened its position as a premier gateway to the Philippines and the rest of the world.
Throughout 2025, Cebu saw a surge in activity as both local and international carriers launched strategic routes to meet the rising demand for travel. The expansion kicked off in March and maintained a steady momentum through the peak December season, offering travelers more direct options than ever before.
“2025 has been a defining year for Cebu,” said a representative for the regional aviation authority. “By opening new routes to key regional cities and long-haul destinations, we are not just connecting airports—we are connecting cultures, economies, and families.
The following routes were successfully inaugurated this year, diversifying Cebu’s reach across Asia and beyond:
| Airline | New Destination | Launch Date |
| Philippine Airlines | Catarman, Calbayog, Guam | Various |
| Cebu Pacific | Ho Chi Minh, El Nido | April & October |
| AirAsia | Kuala Lumpur, Macau | November 15 |
| Jetstar Airways | Brisbane (Long-haul) | December 3 |
| Vietnam Airlines | Hanoi | December 3 |
| Sunlight Air | Siquijor | December 15 |
| AeroK | Cheongju | December 31 |
The year was characterized by two major trends:
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Domestic Gems: New links to Siquijor, El Nido, and Catarman have made the Philippines’ most beautiful islands more accessible to tourists and locals alike.
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Global Reach: The introduction of direct flights to Brisbane and Guam marks a significant leap in long-haul connectivity, while new routes to Ho Chi Minh, Hanoi, and Cheongju strengthen Cebu’s ties with the ASEAN and East Asian markets.
The success of 2025 serves as a launchpad for the coming year. Aviation stakeholders are already in negotiations to bring more direct flights to Cebu in 2026, with a focus on sustainable growth and enhancing the passenger experience. Travelers can expect even more direct access to untapped markets and the continued rise of Cebu as a world-class travel hub.
