Another one bites the dust? Airline suspends services

It is always a risk booking flights with a small carrier in a bid to save money.

Filipino carrier Royal Air Philippines this week suspended all flight operations leaving passengers stranded, China Travel News reported.

While the Manila-based airline has halted all flights, it insists the suspension is a temporary measure but hasn’t given a reason for the suspension of services or how long it will last.

“Thank you for your patience and understanding," the airline said in a notice posted to its website. "We eagerly anticipate welcoming you aboard soon.”

Royal Air Philippines was established more than 20 years ago as a charter airline and in 2018 it pivoted to a scheduled airline.

Backed by Lancang–Mekong Group with investment from China, it struggled in a competitive market in 2025.

It operated a small number of domestic and international routes focused on the China leisure market from Hong Kong, Taipei and Quanzhou to holiday hotspots like Boracay and Bohol.