Skip to flight searchSkip to main content

Domestic Flights in the Philippines

Beach in Boracay, the Philippines

Book Domestic Flights in the Philippines

The Philippines is a stunning archipelago made up of thousands of islands. While island hopping by boat is an adventure, taking domestic flights in the Philippines is usually the quickest way to explore this beautiful country.

We have over 40 different payment methods to choose from. Pay using one of our payment plan options such as Tendopay or Billease Perfect if you're looking to budget for your trip.

This comprehensive guide will help you plan your domestic flights in the Philippines, from choosing the right airline to understanding airport procedures.

To find your perfect flight, simply use our search tool at the top of the page.

Domestic Airlines in the Philippines

Choosing a domestic airline in the Philippines depends on your needs. Some airlines offer full-service amenities, while others focus on affordable flights. Let’s take a look at each in detail.

Cebu Pacific

Cebu Pacific is a Philippine-based airline operating as a low-cost carrier. Founded in 1988, it is the largest airline in the Philippines. The company provides domestic and international flights, serving multiple destinations in Asia, Australia, the Middle East, and the United States. Cebu Pacific is headquartered in Manila and operates a fleet of Airbus aircraft.


Domestic destinations: Bacolod, Butuan, Cagayan de Oro, Caticlan, Cauayan, Cotabato, Dipolog, Dumaguete, General Santos, Kalibo, Laoag, Legazpi, Naga, Ozamiz, Pagadian, Puerto Princesa, Roxas, Tacloban, Tagbiliaran, Tawi-Tawi, Tuguegarao, Virac, & Zamboanga.


The baggage policy with Cebu Pacific depends on your fare type:

  • All passengers: One carry-on bag up to 7 kg (15 lbs). Maximum size is 56 cm x 36 cm x 23 cm (22 in x 14 in x 9 in).
  • Go Basic: No checked baggage included. You can buy this separately.
  • Go Easy & Go Flexi: Two bags with a total weight of 20 kg (44 lbs) included.


Booking Cebu Pacific domestic flights through Alternative Airlines couldn't be easier. Start your search today using the form at the top of the page.

Philippine Airlines (& PAL Express)

Philippine Airlines (PAL) is the flag carrier of the Philippines. Founded in 1941, it operates domestic and international flights. PAL Express is a subsidiary airline offering primarily internal flights in the Philippines. Together, they serve numerous destinations within the Philippines and internationally. PAL is headquartered in Pasay City, Manila.


Domestic destinations: Angeles City, Bacolod, Basco, Bicol, Borongan, Busuanga (Coron), Butuan City, Cagayan de Oro, Calbayog City, Catarman, Caticlan, Cebu, Cotabato City, Davao, Del Carmen, Dipolog City, Dumaguete, General Santos, Iloilo, Kalibo, Laoag, Manila, Ozamiz, Pagadian, Puerto Princesa, Roxas, San Jose, Tacloban, Tagbilaran, Tawi-Tawi, Tuguegarao, & Zamboanga.


PAL and PAL Express’ baggage policy is as follows:

  • All passengers: All fares allow one carry-on bag up to 7 kg (15 lbs).
  • Economy Light: No checked baggage included.
  • Economy: 20 kg (44 lbs) checked baggage included.


Looking for Philippine Airlines domestic flights? Use the search form at the top of the page to find your desired route.

AirSWIFT

AirSWIFT is a domestic Philippine airline that primarily serves popular tourist destinations. Established in 2002 and rebranded in 2015, the airline offers scheduled and charter flights. It is part of the Ayala Corporation and also provides air transport services for its sister company, El Nido Resorts.


Domestic destinations: Bohol, Boracay, Busuanga (Coron), Cebu, Clark, El Nido, Manila, Romblon, & Sicogon.


AirSWIFT has a simple baggage policy:

  • Checked baggage: AirSwift offers a standard checked baggage allowance of 10kg for all fare types. You can purchase additional checked baggage in increments of 5kg up to a maximum of 25kg.
  • Carry-on baggage: One piece is allowed, with a maximum weight of 7kg and dimensions of 18 inches (length) by 13.5 inches (width) by 9 inches (depth).
Transavia wing view from seat

Cebgo

Cebgo is a Philippine airline that focuses on domestic flights. It's part of the Cebu Pacific family of airlines. Cebgo uses smaller planes, mainly turboprops, to reach different places within the Philippines. They offer budget-friendly flights for people travelling around the country.


Domestic destinations: Bacolod City, Bicol, Busuanga (Coron), Butuan City, Cagayan de Oro City, Calbayog City, Camiguin, Caticlan, Cebu, Davao City, Del Carmen, Dipolog City, Dumaguete, General Santos, Iloilo, Manila, Masbate City, Naga, Ozamiz, Pagadian, San Jose, San Vicente, Surigao City, Tacloban, Tawi-Tawi, & Zamboanga. 


Here’s a breakdown of Cebgo’s baggage allowance for domestic flights:

  • Fly Only: No checked baggage included.
  • Fly + Baggage: 20 kg (44 lbs) checked baggage included.
  • Fly + Baggage + Meal: 20 kg (44 lbs) checked baggage included.
  • Carry-on baggage: One piece is allowed, with a maximum weight of 7 kg (15 lbs) and dimensions of 56 cm x 35 cm x 20 cm (22 in x 14 in x 8 in).
Airplane landing in the sunset

Sunlight Air

Sunlight Air is a Philippine airline that began flying passengers in late 2020. It operates domestic flights, mainly from Clark International Airport to various island destinations. The airline is part of the Sunlight Hotels and Resorts group, offering combined flight and accommodation packages. Sunlight Air uses ATR 72-500 aircraft for its flights.


Domestic destinations: Busuanga, Cagayan de Oro, Caticlan, Cebu, Clar, Iloilo, Manila, Naga, Puerto Princesa, San Vicente, & Siargao. 


Here’s the baggage allowance when flying Sunlight Air:

  • Checked baggage: 10 kg (22 lbs) per passenger.
  • Carry-on baggage: One piece with a maximum weight of 7 kg (15 lbs).
Philippines passport

What is the procedure to check in for a domestic flight?

If you are flying domestically within the Philippines then there are a few things you need to know about proper procedure.

What do you need to fly domestically in the Philippines?

If you are a Filipino citizen then all you need is a valid form of identification and your boarding pass. If you are a foreigner travelling domestically in the Philippines then you are also required to have a valid passport.

Do I need to print off my ticket for a domestic flight?

Whether you need a physical, printed boarding pass depends on which carrier you decide to fly with. The two most popular airlines which fly domestically in the Philippines: Cebu Pacific Air and Philippine Airlines, do not require you to print off your boarding pass, as long as you can produce a digital copy on a mobile phone or tablet upon request.

An aircraft parked at a gate at the airport

Popular Airports in the Philippines

Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL)

Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL) is the main airport serving Manila in the Philippines. It's a busy hub for both domestic and international flights. While it handles a large volume of passengers, the airport has been known for congestion and older facilities.


Mactan–Cebu International Airport (CEB)

Mactan-Cebu International Airport is the main gateway to the Central Visayas region in the Philippines. It's located on Mactan Island and handles both international and internal Philippines flights. As the second busiest airport in the country, it's a major hub for travel to and from Cebu.


Francisco Bangoy International Airport (DVO)

Francisco Bangoy International Airport, also known as Davao International Airport, is the main airport serving Davao City and the Davao region in the Philippines. It's the busiest airport on the island of Mindanao and the third busiest in the entire country.


Godofredo P. Ramos Airport (MPH)

Godofredo P. Ramos Airport, also known as Caticlan or Boracay Airport, serves as a gateway to the popular tourist destination of Boracay in the Philippines. It's a busy airport, handling millions of passengers yearly. While smaller than other major Philippine airports, it offers domestic and international flights connecting to various destinations.

Waterfalls in the Philippines

Important Booking Tips

Almost every time you leave an airport in the Philippines you’ll need to pay an exit fee. This is usually around $15USD (850PHP).

Be aware that flight routes are skewed towards Manila, as well as Cebu, although to a lesser extent. If you want to fly between other cities, you might need to purchase two tickets and transfer through one of those hubs.

If you plan on travelling throughout the Philippines during a Christian holiday, including Christmas and Easter, expect the fares to go up. You will need to plan ahead, especially if you need to head out of big cities to reach the airport, as the transport system can become strained.

From July to December, typhoons and other adverse weather conditions can often ground planes. Expect flight delays in the Philippines. Try to avoid planning too tight a schedule for connecting flights.

Philippines flag flying under a blue sky

Why Book Domestic Flights in the Philippines?

Save time

The Philippines is made up of over 7,000 islands. Getting from one island to another by boat can take a long time. For example, a journey from Manila to Cebu, which could take around 24 hours by ferry, can be done in about an hour by plane. 


Comfort and convenience

Flying domestically within the Philippines is easy. Most airports are nicer than you'd expect, with places to eat, shops, and comfortable waiting areas. It's a lot less stressful than dealing with boats or buses. Plus, many flights go straight to your destination, so you don't have to worry about connecting flights or taking other transport. It’s a much smoother way to travel.


Reach hidden gems

The Philippines has thousands of islands, and some of the best places are tucked away in quieter spots. Take Palawan, for example. It’s got stunning beaches and islands, but towns like El Nido are very popular. If you want to find quieter spots with crystal-clear waters and white sand, you’ll need to take a flight to smaller islands such as Busuanga. These places are real hidden gems, but they're hard to get to by boat.

Trusted globally

Rated Excellent on Trustpilot

We’re super proud of our Trustpilot rating, but don’t just take it from us. See why millions of others love booking their flights through Alternative Airlines

Domestic Flight FAQs

Which airlines fly domestically in the Philippines?

Several airlines operate domestic flights within the Philippines. The main carriers include Cebu Pacific, Philippine Airlines, PAL Express, Philippines AirAsia, Airswift, Cebgo, and Sunlight Air.

Do foreigners need a passport for domestic travel in the Philippines?

Yes, foreigners typically need a passport for domestic travel within the Philippines. While some airports may accept other forms of ID, having a passport is generally the safest and most reliable option.

What are the top 3 airlines in the Philippines?

In our opinion, Cebu Pacific, Philippine Airlines, and Philippines AirAsia are the top three airlines in the Philippines.