Bukidnon Airport Final Phase: December 2026 Turboprop Launch Confirmed

Summary

• Civil Aviation Authority and DOTr confirmed Bukidnon Domestic Airport (Don Carlos) progression toward December 2026 commercial operations
• 149-hectare facility successfully completed first DOTr test landing in January 2026; turboprop operations targeted for December 2026, jet services Q1 2027
• Airport will serve 1.5 million residents across Bukidnon and surrounding provinces, catalyzing ₱50-100B commercial/residential development corridor
• Real estate investors positioning for 30-50% property appreciation in Don Carlos municipality and surrounding commerce zones through 2027-2028

News Content

The Bukidnon Domestic Airport project reached a critical milestone with the Department of Transportation's successful test landing on January 30, 2026, paving the way for commercial operations by year-end. The 149-hectare facility in Don Carlos is engineered for Airbus A320 jet capacity, with initial operations launching December 2026 via turboprop aircraft, followed by full jet service in Q1 2027. This phased approach balances operational readiness while meeting the presidential directive to fast-track completion. The airport is positioned to reduce travel time from Central Mindanao to Manila by 75%, fundamentally reshaping logistics costs and business accessibility for the region's agricultural, manufacturing, and export sectors. Bukidnon's economy grew 3.8% in 2024 (GDP: ₱267.77 billion), and the airport opening is projected to drive sustained 4-6% annual GDP growth through improved market access and investor confidence.

Real Estate Outlook

The airport opening will trigger intensive commercial development across a 10-15 km radius, with immediate opportunities in aviation-adjacent logistics parks, cargo processing facilities, and hospitality infrastructure. Property valuations in Don Carlos and adjacent municipalities (Manolo Fortich, Impasugong) are projected to appreciate 30-50% through 2027-2028 as major logistics operators and international carriers establish regional hubs. Early investors should prioritize land acquisition in designated commerce zones within 5 km of airport perimeter.