BIZ BUZZ: Caap runs after AirAsia PH

The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (Caap) has moved to collect the unpaid dues of AirAsia Philippines, putting the budget carrier squarely in its crosshairs.

In an advisory, Caap confirmed it had sent a collection letter to the budget airline as part of its “regular business processes.”

“The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines confirms that it has issued a collection letter to AirAsia Philippines regarding its outstanding account, as part of its regular business processes,” the agency said.

While Caap stopped short of disclosing the exact amount in its public advisory—citing data privacy rules—a copy of the demand letter shows the figure is anything but small.

The letter, addressed to AirAsia Philippines president Suresh Bangah through its chief financial officer Lee Chue Yee, cited unsettled accounts receivable amounting to P833.66 million as of Dec. 31, 2025.

For now, the episode adds another layer of uncertainty to an aviation sector already navigating turbulent conditions due to the war in Iran.