The US Department of Transportation (DOT) has extended the deadline for Asia Pacific Airlines (Guam) to begin its planned 7x weekly Hong Kong International-Manila Ninoy Aquino International fifth-freedom cargo service to October 31, 2026. The approval took effect on July 20.

The carrier requested more time because it has yet to secure Manila slots. It said it would launch as soon as slots become available. The DOT required each frequency to be used by the new deadline.

UPS Airlines (5X, Louisville International), which is seeking approval for a 6x weekly Hong Kong-Angeles City Clark International freighter service, did not oppose the short extension but said it would contest any further delay and seek reallocation of the rights.

As previously reported, the DOT allocated the frequencies in April 2026 for Asia Pacific Airlines' planned Guam International-Manila-Hong Kong cargo service, which will be operated with a B757-200(PCF). The carrier previously attributed the delay to Manila slot constraints and the outstanding designation process under the US-Philippines air transport agreement.