The Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) is preparing for its busiest holiday season yet, with passenger numbers and flights projected to surpass last year’s figures, according to the airport’s new operator, New NAIA Infra Corp. (NNIC).
NNIC anticipates 2.296 million passengers will pass through NAIA’s terminals between December 20, 2024, and January 3, 2025. This represents a 10.95% increase compared to the same period in 2023.
To handle the anticipated surge, NNIC has coordinated with key stakeholders, including the Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA), the Department of Transportation (DOTr), the Philippine National Police-Aviation Security Group (PNP-AVSEGROUP), the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), the Bureau of Customs (BOC), the Bureau of Immigration (BI), and the Bureau of Quarantine (BOQ).
The interagency collaboration aims to enhance staffing, optimize terminal operations, and strengthen security protocols.
NNIC is also working with airlines to increase the number of operational check-in counters and open them earlier during peak hours to minimize queuing times for passengers.
“Christmas is a time for connecting with family, friends, and loved ones, and while this is one of the busiest seasons for NAIA, we are working hard to make the experience as safe and comfortable as possible for all passengers,” said Ramon S. Ang, NNIC President.
Since assuming management of NAIA 90 days ago, NNIC says it has implemented several upgrades aimed at improving the passenger experience. These include expanded curbside areas to ease traffic flow, a centralized transport hub at Terminal 3 for ride-hailing services and metered taxis, improved air conditioning across all terminals, and upgraded Wi-Fi services offering free, high-speed internet access.
Additionally, Terminal 1 has received 400 new sets of gang chairs, and Terminal 3 has added 500 new trolleys as part of a larger order of 2,500, according to NNIC.
Meanwhile, the airport operator advises passengers to arrive at least 2.5 to 3 hours before domestic flights and 3.5 to 4 hours before international flights. Passengers should also check flight updates directly with their airlines via official websites and adhere to carry-on baggage restrictions for faster security screening.
“We thank the public for their continued trust in NAIA as we work to provide a welcoming experience that reflects the joy and warmth of the holiday season,” Ang added.
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