AirAsia X denied reports that its Philippine operations have been grounded, confirming all flights remain fully operational as of June 4, 2026 [1, 2]. The airline said that scheduled services continue normally, subject only to standard operational factors such as weather [1].
Philippine media on June 3 reported that the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) had issued a cease-and-desist order over unpaid charges allegedly amounting to 271.94 million Philippine pesos ($4.3 million, RM17.7 million) accumulated from 2021 through May 2026 [3]. CAAP has not publicly confirmed the order or commented on the outstanding fees [1, 2].
AirAsia described the grounding reports as a "deliberate smear campaign" aimed at undermining competition in the Philippine aviation market [1, 3, 2]. It said such narratives only serve those seeking to limit consumer choice and create monopoly conditions [3].
AirAsia Group co-founder Tan Sri Tony Fernandes emphasized the airline’s deep ties in the Philippines, noting it carries almost seven million guests annually there [1, 2]. He said, "Our commitment to the Philippines is absolute. We are deeply invested in the country, its people and its future [2]."
Fernandes highlighted AirAsia’s ongoing investments in airport infrastructure at Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Manila and Mactan-Cebu International Airport to boost connectivity and reduce costs [2]. The airline also plans to deploy more aircraft to expand its Philippine network and offer more competitive fares [1, 2].
AirAsia X called recent media reports "coordinated and sensationalised," rejecting claims of any grounding as false and not reflective of its operations [1, 3]. It confirmed flights continue on schedule across its network in the Philippines [1].
The conflicting reports emerged yesterday after Philippine news outlets cited a purported CAAP order. AirAsia’s public denial today asserts business as usual and flight continuity in the Philippines [1, 3, 2].
