Lilshira
Cebu airport launches #FlyViaCebu campaign to boost Visayas connectivity
The Discover the Visayas #FlyViaCebu campaign has been launched by Mactan‑Cebu International Airport, offering reduced connection times for domestic and international‑to‑domestic transfers. The initiative takes effect immediately and targets travellers using the airport as a hub for Visayas island hopping.
In this story
At a glance
- What changes
- Launch of #FlyViaCebu campaign with 35‑minute domestic and 60‑minute intl‑domestic transfer times
- Timing
- Announced on 6 November 2026
- Who is affected
- Travellers using Mactan‑Cebu Airport for domestic or international‑to‑domestic connections
The details
- Announced by
- Aboitiz InfraCapital Cebu Airport Corporation
Campaign launch and objectives
Aboitiz InfraCapital Cebu Airport Corporation, operator of Mactan‑Cebu International Airport, introduced the Discover the Visayas #FlyViaCebu campaign. Developed together with the Department of Tourism and the Visayas Islands Tourism Alliance, the campaign aims to position Cebu as a gateway for multi‑island travel across the Visayas.
Expanded route network
The airport supports the initiative through a network of 28 domestic routes linking travellers to key destinations such as Cebu, Bohol, Boracay, Siquijor, Guimaras and Biliran. Additional connections enable access to Busuanga, Siargao and Puerto Princesa via Cebu.
CEB Connects transfer programme
A core element of the campaign is the CEB Connects airport transfer programme. It guarantees a minimum connection time of 35 minutes for domestic transfers and 60 minutes for international‑to‑domestic connections, allowing passengers to use Cebu as a convenient transit hub.
- Minimum 35‑minute window for domestic connections
- Minimum 60‑minute window for international‑to‑domestic connections
What this means for travellers
Trip planning
- Travellers can now plan Cebu as a hub with as little as 35‑minute domestic connections
- Those with existing bookings can use the new transfer windows to reach Bohol, Boracay, Siquijor, Guimaras or Biliran
- International arrivals can connect to domestic flights within 60 minutes, expanding itinerary options
- Tour operators may adjust package itineraries to include Cebu as a transit point
Cost and documents
- No new fees are mentioned for the CEB Connects transfer programme
- Passengers do not need additional documents beyond standard travel requirements
- Airlines and airports handle the reduced connection times without extra charges to travellers
- Existing ticket prices remain unchanged
What you need to do
- Check flight schedules for the 35‑minute domestic and 60‑minute intl‑domestic connection windows
- Book connecting flights through airlines that participate in the CEB Connects programme
- Monitor announcements from Mactan‑Cebu International Airport for any timetable updates
- Ensure sufficient time for baggage transfer when planning tight connections
Who this affects
-
Domestic travellers connecting via Cebu
Benefit from the new 35‑minute minimum domestic connection times
What to do Book connecting flights that meet the 35‑minute window
-
International arrivals transferring to domestic flights
Eligible for the 60‑minute minimum international‑to‑domestic connection time
What to do Coordinate inbound and outbound flights within the new window
-
Tour operators offering Visayas itineraries
Campaign promotes Cebu as a gateway to multiple islands
What to do Incorporate Cebu transit options into travel packages
-
Airlines operating domestic routes from MCIA
Required to adhere to reduced 35‑minute domestic connection standards
What to do Adjust schedules to meet the new transfer time requirements
-
Travel agencies selling tickets through MCIA
New connectivity options affect itinerary planning for clients
What to do Inform clients about faster transfer possibilities and updated schedules
Frequently asked questions
What is the #FlyViaCebu campaign?
The #FlyViaCebu campaign is a new initiative by Mactan‑Cebu International Airport that promotes Cebu as a gateway for Visayas island hopping, featuring reduced connection times for domestic and international‑to‑domestic flights.
When can travellers use the 35‑minute domestic connection window?
The 35‑minute domestic connection window is available immediately following the campaign launch announced on 6 November 2026 for flights operating through Mactan‑Cebu International Airport.
Does the campaign introduce any new fees for passengers?
No new fees are mentioned; passengers continue to pay standard airline and airport charges while benefiting from the faster transfer times.
Which destinations are highlighted in the Discover the Visayas promotion?
The promotion highlights Cebu, Bohol, Boracay, Siquijor, Guimaras, Biliran and also promotes connections to Busuanga, Siargao and Puerto Princesa via Cebu.
How should travel agents adjust their bookings under the new programme?
Agents should check participating airline schedules for the 35‑minute domestic and 60‑minute international‑to‑domestic windows and advise clients to book connecting flights that fit within those limits.
