Catching a flight during ASEAN summit? Here are some reminders from DOTr

MANILA — The Department of Transportation (DOTr) on Tuesday assured passengers of assistance as airport operations are expected to be affected by the arrival and departure of heads of state and other leaders attending the 49th ASEAN Summit.

More than 300 flights are set to be affected, either through cancellations or schedule adjustments. 

The affected flight details will be posted on the official websites of the DOTr, Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP), and Civil Aeronautics Board (CAB).

“The crucial dates will start I think on the 14th, November 14, Saturday. Those are the first days of the arrivals of states. 14 onwards, I guess to the end kasi ano ‘yan eh arrival and departure,” DOTr Secretary Vince Dizon said. 

Passengers whose flights are affected may coordinate directly with their respective airlines to avail themselves of any of the following options. 

• Free rebooking – All rebooking fees and penalties will be waived.
• Full refund – Passengers may receive a full refund of the amount paid for their tickets.
• Travel fund – Travel credits may be issued for use in future transactions.

Dizon also assured passengers that the impact on international carriers would be minimal.

“There’s minimal effect on the international carriers, kung magkaka-effect man ‘yan, baka may mga delay here and there but there will be no cancellation on international flights,” he said.

The transportation chief expressed confidence in the country’s security preparations for the arrival of foreign dignitaries.

“We are confident with our current security. Siyempre heads of state ‘to… Kampante tayo sa security efforts natin together with our private partners,” he said.

The DOTr urged passengers to take note of the following reminders. 

• Plan your trip. Allow extra travel time to avoid rushing and ensure you arrive at the airport terminals ahead of your scheduled departure.
• Check your flight status. Verify your flight status through your airline’s official website and communication channels to stay updated on any changes to your flight schedule.

Passengers may also seek assistance at the following designated airport information counters and help desks. 

NAIA Terminal 1

• Departure lobby
• Arrival lobby

NAIA Terminal 2

• South Wing – Departure and Arrival areas
• North Wing – Departure and Arrival areas

NAIA Terminal 3

• After the Arrival Customs area
• Information counters

Clark CAB booth

• MCIA Domestic CAB booth
• MCIA International CAB booth