What Happened
Budget Carrier Averts Shutdown Order After Paying Outstanding Fees
AirAsia Philippines has settled its outstanding debt of $4.7 million with the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP), avoiding a potential shutdown order. The payment was made on June 4, 2026, after CAAP had issued a cease-and-desist order on June 2, 2026, due to unpaid fees. AirAsia Group has denied reports that the airline was being grounded, calling them a deliberate smear campaign. The airline plans to continue expanding its operations in the Philippines, including investing in new airport infrastructure and deploying more aircraft. This development was first reported by AeroTime.