Aboitiz InfraCapital Airports (AIC Airports) has reported a significant milestone for the first quarter of 2026, with combined domestic passenger traffic at Laguindingan International Airport (LIA) and Bohol-Panglao International Airport (BPIA) exceeding 1.02 million travellers. This surge underscores the growing importance of these regional gateways in the Philippines, particularly as domestic travel continues to drive recovery and expansion across the archipelago.
Rafael M. Aboitiz, Vice President and Head of Airports Business at AIC, noted: "Domestic travel continues to be a strong driver of growth for Aboitiz InfraCapital Airports, as well as in the communities where we are located." The company operates both airports under long-term concessions, focusing on infrastructure upgrades and passenger experience enhancements.
Laguindingan International Airport: Northern Mindanao's Key Hub
LIA, ranked as the seventh-busiest airport in the Philippines, served 616,661 domestic passengers during the first three months of 2026. The airport serves the Northern Mindanao region, including Cagayan de Oro, and provides direct connections to Manila, Cebu, and Davao. The steady passenger growth reflects increasing mobility among residents and visitors, supported by improved air service and regional economic development.
AIC has invested in terminal upgrades at LIA, including expanded check-in areas and enhanced security systems, to accommodate rising demand. The airport's performance aligns with broader trends in Philippine aviation, where secondary gateways are capturing a larger share of domestic traffic.
Bohol-Panglao International Airport: Tourism and Connectivity Boost
BPIA, the tenth-busiest airport in the country, welcomed over 412,000 domestic passengers in Q1 2026. The airport benefits from Bohol's status as a premier tourism destination, home to the Philippines' first UNESCO Global Geopark. Recent achievements include an upgraded International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) Category 9 rating, which allows BPIA to accommodate larger aircraft such as the Airbus A330 and Boeing 777.
In a notable development, BPIA hosted its first charter flight from Narita, Japan, signalling growing international interest. The airport is also exploring participation in a visa-free entry programme for Chinese tourists, which could further boost visitor numbers. Direct domestic routes from BPIA connect to Manila, Cebu, and Davao, with potential for additional services as demand grows.
The rise in domestic travel at these airports mirrors global trends, as seen in other markets. For instance, Queenstown Airport recently hit a million international passengers and added Brisbane flights, highlighting the importance of regional hubs. Similarly, India leads global domestic travel trends for 2026, with cost and geopolitical factors reshaping traveller preferences.
AIC Airports remains committed to enhancing passenger experiences and expanding connectivity. The company is investing in digital solutions, including biometric boarding and self-service kiosks, to streamline operations. These initiatives align with broader industry shifts, such as social commerce and AI reshaping travel distribution, as younger travellers increasingly book based on influencer recommendations.
As the Philippine aviation sector continues to recover, AIC Airports' performance in Q1 2026 signals strong momentum for domestic travel. With ongoing infrastructure improvements and strategic route development, LIA and BPIA are well-positioned to serve as key gateways for both leisure and business travellers in the years ahead.
