Friday, July 11, 2025

PAL cancels Mid-East flights amid conflict; CEB continues Dubai operations

Amid the tensions in the Middle East, flag carrier Philippine Airlines (PAL) cancelled several flights to the region, while Cebu Pacific (CEB) confirmed its Dubai operations remain unaffected and will proceed as scheduled.

In a statement on Tuesday, PAL announced the cancellation of five Middle East-bound flights on June 24, including PR 684 (Manila–Doha), PR 658/659 (Manila–Dubai–Manila), and PR 654/655 (Manila–Riyadh–Manila), citing regional tensions.

PAL said the safety and security of passengers and crew remain its top priority as it monitors the evolving situation in the Middle East. The airline said it is working closely with international aviation bodies, government agencies, and global partners to assess the situation and make decisions accordingly.

In addition, the return flight PR 685 from Doha to Manila on June 25 has also been cancelled. Flights departing for the Middle East on Wednesday, June 25, will proceed as scheduled.

“Our flights departing for the Middle East are still on schedule for tomorrow, June 25. We will, however, proactively monitor the situation and provide updates if necessary,” PAL said.

Affected passengers are advised not to proceed to the airport if their flight is cancelled. Instead, they are encouraged to avail themselves of flexible travel options, including: free rebooking within 60 days on available flights; conversion to travel credits valid for one year; and full refund of the ticket, excluding the ticketing service charge.

Since late 2024, PAL has been maintaining regular operations to three Middle East destinations—daily flights to Dubai and Riyadh, and five weekly flights to Doha, Qatar.

Meanwhile, the country’s leading budget carrier, CEB, said its Dubai operations remain unaffected and continue to operate as scheduled.

“Our route does not fly over conflict-affected areas in the Middle East, allowing us to operate safely.  We continue to actively monitor the situation and will share further updates as necessary.” CEB said in a statement on Tuesday.

To accommodate concerned travelers, Cebu Pacific is offering flexible options, including free rebooking and travel fund conversion for passengers booked on Dubai flights scheduled today, June 24, 2025. These options are available online up to two hours before the scheduled departure time.

Both PAL and CEB encouraged their passengers to regularly check flight status updates on their websites.

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