AirAsia MOVE Strengthens Commitment to Consumer Protection and Fair Pricing in Philippines Aviation Industry: Know More

AirAsia MOVE has reaffirmed its commitment to working alongside the Philippine government to implement comprehensive safeguards across the industry, ensuring enhanced protection for customers. During the Civil Aeronautics Board (CAB) inquiry on Thursday, MOVE sought to clarify its stance regarding the alleged fare discrepancy in Tacloban, which had sparked concerns over potential overpricing involving a domestic flight carrier.

No Manual Fare Manipulation

During the inquiry, MOVE CEO Nadia Omer appeared before CAB officials to explain the processes governing the Online Travel Agency (OTA) industry. Omer highlighted several crucial points, specifically addressing the concerns over fare discrepancies. One key detail was that MOVE’s pricing mechanism is entirely automated, with no human intervention or manipulation involved in fare setting.

Omer emphasized that MOVE, as an OTA, does not set the fares but instead sources them from third-party aggregators, which work directly with airlines. She clarified, “We want to make it clear that OTAs operate through third-party aggregators, aside from direct airline partners. These third-party aggregators engage with various airlines to sell their seats, and OTAs act as a marketing platform or intermediary.

She further affirmed that there is no overpricing or manipulation occurring, as such actions go against MOVE’s core principle of offering affordable fares and providing a diverse range of options for travelers, regardless of their budget.

Immediate Action and Third-Party Accountability

Following a cease and desist order issued by the CAB, MOVE swiftly took action by calling attention to the third-party suppliers involved in the fare issue. MOVE requested the immediate removal of the disputed fares and initiated an internal investigation. The company confirmed that no transactions were made for the fares in question, and it is likely that no passengers were affected by the discrepancy.

In a statement, Omer added, “Aside from enduring significant public scrutiny, MOVE did not earn any commission from the fares in question. We immediately sought written explanations from our third-party suppliers to ensure full clarity on the matter.”

Advocating for Stronger Consumer Protection Collaboration

MOVE is committed to working closely with the Philippine government to ensure consumer protection remains a top priority. In the Philippines, airline fares are regulated by the CAB, which establishes price ceilings and ensures that any fare adjustments undergo proper approval. Meanwhile, the Department of Tourism (DOT) monitors accommodation rates. Complaints related to pricing on OTAs are typically referred to the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).

As part of its consumer advocacy, MOVE has expressed its readiness to collaborate with the government in setting up a task force focused on developing policies that would monitor pricing across the entire supply chain, not only on booking platforms but also with third-party suppliers.

“We are committed to working hand-in-hand with the government to develop policies that safeguard consumers while also encouraging economic growth and boosting the tourism sector,” Omer emphasized. “We ask that the government balance the regulation of OTAs to ensure that we offer equal protection for consumers while fostering a thriving economic environment.”

Moving Forward: A Commitment to Affordable Travel

At its core, MOVE’s mission remains unchanged: to democratize travel by offering accessible, affordable, and diverse travel options for all. With its automated fare system and commitment to transparency, the company aims to continue supporting the growth of the tourism industry and ensuring that all consumers, regardless of their budget, can enjoy the benefits of affordable air travel.

Omer concluded, “We will continue to prioritize consumer protection and transparency. Our partnership with the government is vital in ensuring that the airline industry remains fair, accessible, and supportive of the growing travel needs of the public.”

By forging stronger collaboration with the government, MOVE remains dedicated to pushing for a regulatory framework that balances consumer protection, economic progress, and the further democratization of travel.

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