Francisco B. Reyes (Busuanga) Airport

Overview

Francisco B. Reyes Airport (IATA: USU) is a regional airport serving the municipality of Coron on Busuanga Island in Palawan, Philippines. It is the primary gateway for travellers heading to Coron town, famous for its limestone karst landscapes, WWII shipwreck dive sites, and island-hopping tours. The airport is located approximately 25 kilometres from Coron town proper, a journey of about 40–50 minutes by road.

The airport is classified as a Class 2 principal domestic airport by the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines. It handles mostly domestic flights from major cities such as Manila and Cebu, operated by airlines including Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, and AirSWIFT. Due to its relatively short runway (1,400 metres), larger aircraft cannot operate, and flights are limited to turboprops and regional jets.

Terminal Amenities

Francisco B. Reyes Airport is a compact facility with basic services to meet passenger needs. The terminal offers on-site services including check-in counters, a waiting area, and baggage claim. For passengers with mobility challenges, the airport provides a wheelchair-accessible car park, entrance, and toilet. The accessible toilet also has a changing table, which is useful for families with infants.

The airport has standard toilet facilities for all passengers. There are no reported premium lounges, restaurants, or duty-free shops within the terminal; travellers are advised to bring their own refreshments, especially during peak hours.

Peak Hours

Based on flight schedules, the busiest times at the airport are around 10:00 AM and 11:00 AM. During these hours, passengers can expect longer queues for check-in and security screening. It is recommended to arrive at least two hours before a domestic flight departure to allow sufficient time for processing.

Accessibility

The airport provides good accessibility for passengers with reduced mobility. A wheelchair-accessible car park is available close to the terminal entrance. The entrance itself is step-free, and there is a designated accessible toilet inside. Passengers needing additional assistance should coordinate with their airline in advance.

Operational Hours

Francisco B. Reyes Airport is not open 24 hours a day. It typically operates during daylight hours in line with flight schedules, which are concentrated in the morning and early afternoon. Travellers arriving on late flights should make arrangements for ground transport promptly, as the terminal may close after the last arrival.

Contact Information

As of the latest available data, Francisco B. Reyes Airport does not have a publicly listed website or phone number. For inquiries, passengers should contact their airline directly or seek information from the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines' regional office.

Getting There and Away

The most common way to reach Coron town from the airport is by van or tricycle. Many hotels and tour operators offer transfer services. Fares are typically fixed and can be arranged at the airport terminal. The road to Coron is winding and can be dusty during dry season, so allow extra travel time.

Regional Role

Coron and Busuanga Island are part of the Calamian Islands group, a fast-growing tourist destination in the Philippines. Francisco B. Reyes Airport plays a vital role in supporting the local economy by providing essential air connectivity. While the airport is modest in size, it handles a significant number of passengers, especially during peak travel months from November to May. The airport also accommodates general aviation and charter flights, contributing to its regional importance.

Final Tips

• Bring snacks and water, as food options are limited inside the terminal.
• Travel light if possible; the airport has limited baggage handling capacity.
• If you have a connecting flight, confirm the schedule as delays can occur due to weather, especially during the rainy season (June to October).
• For wheelchair users or those with heavy luggage, the accessible facilities make the airport manageable, but the walk to the parking area is short.