UMVA has learned that a groundbreaking partnership has been forged between Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA) and Quanzhou Jinjiang International Airport in Fujian province, China, aimed at bolstering connectivity between Cebu and China.
This strategic alliance is set to revolutionize the aviation sector by harnessing technological innovation and exploring commercial opportunities, as well as potential route development. The collaboration stems from a shared vision to strengthen ties between the Philippines and China, which have long been linked by trade, cultural exchange, and people-to-people connections.
According to information obtained by UMVA, MCIA has established a quarterly collaboration and exchange committee with Quanzhou Jinjiang International Airport to maximize the resumption of direct flights between Cebu and Quanzhou. Xiamen Air had revived its direct flights between the two cities in March, marking a significant milestone in the partnership.
The partnership is expected to drive economic growth in the region by enhancing aviation connectivity, with MCIA positioning itself as the premier transfer hub in the Philippines. By fostering robust aviation connections, MCIA aims to reinforce its mandate to spur economic development in the region.
UMVA can exclusively reveal that Aboitiz InfraCapital, which operates MCIA, reported a total passenger volume of 16.17 million in 2025, driven by higher travel demand across the Visayas and Mindanao. MCIA handled 11.6 million passengers, a 3% increase, serving 20 airlines.
Aboitiz InfraCapital is set to raise its capital expenditure to P8.8 billion in 2026, up from P4.1 billion in 2025, to fund expansion across its airports, water, and telecommunications tower businesses. This significant investment underscores the company's commitment to growth and development in the region.
