AirAsia Philippines reports rising Fly-Thru demand in 2026, with Almaty traffic surging 1,000% as Filipinos explore international destinations.
MANILA, Philippines – Filipino travelers are increasingly exploring destinations beyond traditional holiday hotspots, with AirAsia Philippines reporting substantial growth in international Fly-Thru passenger traffic in 2026.

City landscape on a background of snow-capped Tian Shan mountains in Almaty, Kazakhstan
The airline recorded a remarkable 1,000% increase in passenger traffic between Manila and Almaty, Kazakhstan, based on its 2025 and 2026 passenger flown data. The figures highlight growing Filipino interest in emerging travel destinations and international experiences beyond familiar tourist hubs.
Other destinations also experienced significant growth. Phnom Penh, Cambodia, recorded a 705% increase, while Manila-Penang traffic rose by 50%. New Delhi, India, also posted a 43% increase in passenger traffic.
These figures reflect changing travel preferences among Filipinos, who are increasingly seeking cultural experiences, new landscapes, and destinations that offer something different from their usual vacation choices.
AirAsia Philippines President and General Manager Anna Victoria Lu said the airline is seeing more Filipinos open to exploring destinations they may not have considered before.
She added that Almaty’s growing popularity reflects changing travel interests, and that AirAsia’s Fly-Thru network aims to make international journeys more accessible and convenient through affordable fares and simplified connections.
Where Can Filipinos Travel Through AirAsia Fly-Thru?

AirAsia’s Fly-Thru service connects travelers to international destinations through a single booking, allowing passengers to explore places beyond the airline’s direct routes.
From the Philippines, travelers can connect through major AirAsia hubs, including Kuala Lumpur, Kota Kinabalu, and Bangkok, to reach destinations across Asia and beyond.
International Destinations from Manila
Travelers departing from Manila can explore destinations such as:
- Almaty, Kazakhstan (ALA)
- Jaipur, India (JAI)
- New Delhi, India (DEL)
- Penang, Malaysia (PEN)
- Maldives (MLE)
- Phuket, Thailand (HKT)
- Chiang Mai, Thailand (CNX)
International Destinations from Cebu
Cebu-based travelers can also access international destinations through connecting flights, including:
- Penang, Malaysia (PEN)
- Bali, Indonesia (DPS)
- Siem Reap, Cambodia (SAI)
- Hanoi, Vietnam (HAN)
- Da Nang, Vietnam (DAD)
These connections offer additional travel opportunities for Filipinos who want to explore destinations not available through direct flights from their home airport.
AirAsia Philippines Launches Fly-Thru Sale
AirAsia Philippines is offering travelers additional opportunities to explore international destinations through its Fly-Thru sale, running from November 3 to November 9, 2026.
The limited-time promotion aims to encourage more Filipinos to discover destinations beyond conventional travel routes through competitive fares and convenient connecting flights.
Travelers can check the AirAsia MOVE app or website for available routes, promotional fares, travel periods, and applicable booking conditions.
How AirAsia Fly-Thru Makes Connecting Flights Easier

Connecting flights can sometimes be complicated, especially when travelers need to book separate tickets, collect baggage, and check in again during transit.
AirAsia Fly-Thru simplifies the process by combining eligible connecting flights into one booking. The service also allows passengers to check their baggage through to their final destination.
Key benefits include:
- Single booking: Reserve eligible connecting flights together instead of booking separate tickets.
- Convenient check-in: Check in for eligible connecting flights through AirAsia’s designated check-in channels.
- Baggage check-through: Checked baggage is transferred to the final destination on eligible Fly-Thru itineraries.
- Expanded connectivity: Access more than 130 destinations across Asia and Australia through the AirAsia network.
- Premium Flatbed option: Enjoy additional comfort on eligible routes and flights, subject to availability.
These features can help travelers save time and simplify their journey, particularly when flying to destinations that require multiple flight segments.
How to Use AirAsia Fly-Thru
Travelers can prepare for their Fly-Thru journey by following these steps:
1. Book Your Connecting Flights
Choose an eligible Fly-Thru itinerary through the AirAsia website or AirAsia MOVE app. Confirm that your connecting flights are included in the same booking.
2. Check In and Drop Off Your Baggage
Passengers may check in online through the AirAsia MOVE app or website, subject to applicable requirements.
For checked baggage, travelers can print their bag tags at a self-check-in kiosk before proceeding to the baggage drop counter. Alternatively, they may check in at the AirAsia Philippines counter.
AirAsia will attach a green Fly-Thru sticker to eligible checked baggage to identify luggage that must be transferred to the final destination.
3. Follow Transit Instructions
At the connecting airport, follow the designated transfer signs and complete any applicable security, immigration, or transit procedures.
Proceed to the designated connecting gate and check the airport displays for updated flight information.
4. Collect Your Baggage at the Final Destination
Upon arrival, collect your checked baggage from the designated carousel and complete any applicable customs procedures.
Travelers should always review the transit requirements of their connecting airport and destination, including visa and immigration regulations.
Explore More Destinations with AirAsia Fly-Thru
The growing popularity of destinations such as Almaty, Phnom Penh, and New Delhi suggests that Filipino travelers are becoming more adventurous with their international travel plans.
With AirAsia Fly-Thru, travelers can consider more destinations without the added complexity of arranging separate connecting flights.
For connecting flight options, baggage information, and transit procedures, visit the official AirAsia Fly-Thru website.
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