Sunlight Air Embarks on Fleet Renewal and Expansion, Shifts Base to Clark International

Sunlight Air, a prominent player in the Filipino aviation sector, is setting its sights on significant growth and operational enhancements. The airline plans to revamp its ATR fleet and is considering the addition of regional jets for potential short-haul international routes. In a strategic move to optimize operations, Sunlight Air will also transition most of its flights from Manila Ninoy Aquino International to Angeles City Clark International Airport, starting April 2024.

CEO Ryna Brito-Garcia revealed the airline’s ambitious plans in an exclusive conversation, highlighting the pursuit of fleet modernization and the exploration of international expansion. With an eye on sustaining growth, Sunlight Air is in talks about buyback arrangements and other opportunities to expand its fleet cautiously, aiming to add two more aircraft in the near term.

Since its inception in 2020, Sunlight Air has evolved from a charter carrier to a scheduled service operator, now managing a fleet of three ATR72-500s serving island destinations such as Busuanga, Naga, and San Vicente. The airline’s commitment to these unique locales underscores its dedication to connecting underserved markets in the Philippines.

The decision to stick with ATR72s aligns with the operational requirements of Sunlight Air’s destinations, many of which feature short runways. However, Brito-Garcia is also considering the acquisition of newer aircraft to replace the aging ATRs, aiming to enhance efficiency and reduce maintenance costs.

Looking towards the future, Brito-Garcia envisions Sunlight Air embarking on short-haul international flights, potentially leveraging aircraft like the A220 to connect passengers from nearby countries to Clark International. This vision aligns with the airline’s goal of promoting tourism to the Philippines’ lesser-known gems.

The shift of operations to Clark International Airport is a strategic response to Manila’s congestion, offering Sunlight Air more slots, reduced air traffic control issues, and an improved customer experience. Despite the challenge of encouraging Metro Manila passengers to embrace the new base, Brito-Garcia is optimistic about the benefits Clark International provides, including a larger catchment area and seamless connections for international travelers.

Sunlight Air’s collaboration with ameliaRES for a new booking system is set to further streamline the check-in process at Clark International, enhancing the travel experience for its passengers.

As Sunlight Air gears up for its transition and embarks on its fleet renewal and growth strategy, the airline is poised to play a pivotal role in connecting the Philippines’ picturesque islands with the rest of the world, promoting tourism and offering travelers more flexible and convenient flight options.