Ensuring safe Clark-Siargao flights

Siargao island often gets rains coming from winds and currents from the Pacific Ocean. While these waves and rain, intensified by the Mindanao current, give Siargao its serene and lush greenery and fuel its reputation as the country’s surfing capital, these might cause unfavorable weather conditions that may cause some turbulence that might delay or cancel a flight to Siargao. 

Due to recurring incidents of clear air turbulence (CAT) – or sudden turbulence in cloudless areas that violently shake aircraft – passengers are advised to always fasten their seatbelts throughout the flight going to and coming from Siargao.

Turbulence, according to Philippine Airlines (PAL) pilot Captain Reynaldo Puig Jr., is not common in a flight going to and from Clark in Pampanga to Siargao, and vice versa. But it happens occasionally during “unfavorable” weather conditions.

Only smaller aircrafts, such as those used by PAL Express, are the only ones that can fit on Siargao airport’s runway, said Capt. Puig.

“Yes, ito lang ang kaya i-cater ng runway. Bigger than this, hindi na kaya,” he said.

Despite the small aircraft size, Capt. Puig assured the flight “is very safe.”

Among the airplanes PAL uses in its new Clark-Siargao route is the Dash 8 Q400, which has quieter engines and better cruise performance than other aircraft models in its series. It is also reportedly sustainable as it consumes less fuel and is less expensive to maintain and operate.

While Clark International Airport is an over-two-hour land travel from Manila, it is far more modern, cleaner, less crowded and laidback than NAIA. It also has its own array of Filipino and international food concepts and duty-free shops, as well as plenty of restrooms and shuttle services for ease of reaching boarding gates.

Waiting areas and boarding gates have wide glass windows showing the majestic Mount Arayat and its surrounding mountains and greenery. 

Clark-Siargao-Clark flights provide a scenic aerial view of the mountains and countryside. Traveling through Siargao’s sea of clouds and above its lush landscape and white beaches below, boosts one’s pride and faith in the beauty of the Philippines.