The Bohol–Panglao International Airport (BPIA), also called the Panglao Island Airport, began operations in November 2018, and seven years later, it marked a major operational milestone with the successful landing of its first Airbus A330 on 16 November

Said 459-seater wide-body aircraft is operated by Cebu Pacific on the Manila–Tagbilaran route. Because a wide-body aircraft of this scale has been successfully deployed to BPIA, more tourists can be expected to arrive in this province.

This achievement follows months of operational enhancements and compliance upgrades undertaken by Aboitiz InfraCapital Bohol Airport Corporation (ABAC), the private operator of BPIA, particularly in meeting stringent fire protection and rescue category requirements. This milestone highlights the cooperation between ABAC, the Provincial Government of Bohol, the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), and the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP).

“The Provincial Government of Bohol welcomes Cebu Pacific’s decision to deploy its Airbus A330 for daily flights to and from Bohol,” said Bohol Governor Erico Aristotle “Aris” Aumentado. “This move reflects their strong confidence in our province’s tourism potential and growing economy.”

Aboitiz Operating Airports COO Terence Delomoney emphasized the significance of this milestone for the airport’s long-term vision. “The arrival of the A330 demonstrates our commitment to elevating BPIA to world-class standards,” said Delomoney. “This capability allows airlines to increase capacity, introduce more direct flights, and ultimately bring more travelers to experience the beauty and culture of Bohol.”

The airport holds the distinction of being the Philippines’ first “eco-airport,” designed with sustainable and energy-efficient technologies, including extensive use of natural lighting and ventilation.