Avion Express Philippines to Launch ACMI Operations

Manila, Philippines, 21 February 2025 – Avion Express Philippines, a subsidiary of the world’s largest ACMI provider, Avia Solutions Group, is set to introduce its ACMI (Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, and Insurance) services to the Philippines. The announcement was made during a high-profile industry event held on February 20, 2025, at Nara Hall, Shangri-La The Fort, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig.

The event, led by Gediminas Ziemelis, Chairman of Avia Solutions Group, brought together top executives from major Philippine carriers, including Philippine Airlines (PAL), Cebu Pacific Air (CEB), and Philippine AirAsia. Government officials from key agencies, including the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP), Civil Aeronautics Board (CAB), and the Department of Transportation (DOTr), also attended, emphasizing the strategic importance of this development.

The new ACMI provider is designed to meet the Philippines’ seasonal aircraft capacity needs. 2024 tourism revenue in the Philippines has surged past pre-pandemic levels, exceeding the estimated P600.01 billion in 2019 by 26.75%, with tourist arrivals registering 9.15% higher than 2023. However, this growth is tempered by significant challenges. The global supply chain crisis has led to a backlog of over 17,000 new aircraft, creating difficulties for airlines to meet growing demand and maximize potential revenues.

Gediminas Ziemelis, Chairman of Avia Solutions Group said, ”With the planned expansion of Manila Airport and tourism receipts surpassing pre-pandemic levels last year, there is a clear need for ACMI to address the capacity gaps and service challenges within the local aviation sector. This flexible model helps airlines increase capacity during high-demand seasons, improve profitability by 2-3%, and navigate market fluctuations. Avion Express Philippines will play an important role in providing airlines with seasonal and flexible capacity to meet the country’s booming aviation market.”

"The introduction of ACMI services in the Philippines marks an exciting chapter for the aviation industry," said Rene Banzon, CEO of Avion Express Philippines. "We believe that this service will empower airlines to optimize operations, explore new routes, and ultimately provide better travel experiences for passengers. We look forward to officially launching our operations this year and contributing to the industry's continued growth."

The event was attended by key figures in the public and private sectors, including Taguig Mayor Lani Cayetano; Mr. Junard J Cruz, Consultant for Philippines Department of Transportation. Deputy Executive Director Maria Elben SL. Moro from CAB; Atty. Mark Nester Mendoza from CAAP and various aviation industry leaders.

In preparation of its official launch, Avion Express Philippines is working with the CAAP and CAB on the final regulatory requirements for its Air Operator Certificate (AOC) and Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity (CPCN). The company officially opened its corporate headquarters on the same day of the event in the upscale Bonifacio Global City (BGC) in Taguig, Metro Manila attended by Ziemelis, Martynas Grigas, Chairman of Avion Express Philippines, and Banzon. Joining the official opening was also Fernando Bernardo Beluan, CEO of Avia Solutions Group Global Services Philippines, who shares the same office.