Philippine ATR 72-500 startup Sunlight Express Airways has received its air operator’s certificate (AOC) and will begin charter flights to several resort destinations.
The CEO of Sunlight Express, Ryna Brito, says in an email to Smart Aviation APAC that the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines has granted the airline its air operator certificate as a charter operator.
Clark, Puerto Princesa, Cebu, Siargao, Bohol, and Coron will be Sunlight Express’ first destinations, she says, adding that it has begun selling travel packages and air tickets for the 24-27 December period.
The airline’s fleet comprises of three ATR 72-500 turboprops, that it owns, and it has line maintenance capabilities too, Brito says.
It is linked to the Sunlight Hotels and Resorts group, which has upper and mid-range hotels on Palawan and Busuanga Island in the western Philippines, she adds.
Sunlight Express’ strategy is to provide a more streamlined travel experience for guests, and improve point-to-point accessibility for resorts they partner with, Brito says.
Sunlight Hotels and Resorts group became involved in aviation, because it realised its resorts in Busuanga were failing to reach their full potential, because of limited air services, she says, adding that this is a challenge also faced by other resorts.
Photo: Sunlight Express Airways
