Emirates Airline has criticised a decision by the Philippines not to extend rights to operate a third daily flight from Dubai to Manila.
The Dubai-based carrier’s right to operate a third flight to Manila expired in October 2014, but the Philippines Civil Aeronautics Board (Cab) had granted an extension to operate until January 26.
However, before the approval of the extension was granted, Emirates was slapped with US$40,627 in fines for selling tickets up to March 2015, according to Carmelo Arcilla, the executive director of Cab.
"We are disappointed at the decision of the Philippines authorities not to grant a further extension on our third daily flight from Manila to Dubai beyond 26 January," said an Emirates spokesman in response to questions from The National.
“The reduction in services is likely to have a profoundly negative impact on consumers in the Philippines, overseas Filipino workers, and cause missed opportunities for tourism, exports, and the economy at large.”
Arabian Gulf carriers seeking to extend their operations are increasingly brushing up against regulators and rival airlines fearful of losing market share as the industry consolidates.
Emirates yesterday defended its track record in complying with regulators.
“We have always been transparent in our practices, and have acted in accordance with all regulations including those of Iata [International Air Transport Association] as well as the Cab,” the spokesman said.
The aeronautics board said that Emirates had “elevated” the dispute to a higher body, which is still looking into the matter.
The board’s Mr Arcilla said he hoped the row would be resolved by the next round of talks between the UAE and Philippines.
Emirates, which has operated its Dubai-Manila route since 1990, said it had invested almost US$100 million in direct expenditures in the Philippines in 2013.
Its daily flights from Manila also supported more than 4,300 jobs in the Philippines last year through direct employment, as well as catering, ground handling jobs and other posts related to air travel services.
selgazzar@thenational.ae
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