The Philippines biggest low cost carrier Cebu Pacific says it could begin flying to the US by the end of the year.
The carrier has applied to operate services to Hawaii and Guam.
"Hopefully, before the end of the year we can secure necessary slots," said Cebu Air Inc. president Lance Gokongwei.
The airline is awaiting final approval from US regulators which includes an assessment of Cebu’s base at Manila’s Ninoy Aquino International Airport.
There is currently no direct service between Manila and Honolulu since national carrier Philippine Airlines discontinued the route two years ago.
Cebu Pacific also flies long haul to Dubai, Riyadh, Sydney, Kuwait and Doha, Qatar.
