It’s been just two months since New NAIA Infra Corp. (NNIC) took over the management of Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), and already, there’s a visible difference. The private sector operator has shared an update on the improvements they’ve made so far and the ones currently underway, as part of their big plan to modernize the country’s 76-year-old airport.
NNIC took the reins on September 14, 2024, and their primary focus has been to address the long-standing issues that have plagued NAIA, especially its overcapacity problem. The airport was originally designed to handle 35 million passengers annually but has been serving more than 45 million in recent years. In fact, this year, it’s expected to surpass 50 million.
Ramon S. Ang, President of NNIC, explained, “NAIA has been under a lot of strain. The facilities and equipment have been showing signs of wear and tear, so our top priority is to ensure everything works reliably. We’re also working hard to reduce congestion, improve overall efficiency, and prepare for major upgrades in the future.”
Airside Improvements
One of the most noticeable changes has been the renovation of Terminal 4, which is the oldest terminal at NAIA. This work kicked off as scheduled on November 6, 2024. In addition, NNIC has increased the number of operational passenger boarding bridges (PBBs), with six designed for wide-body aircraft now in use. Two PBBs at Terminal 3 have been converted to “swing gates,” so they can handle both domestic and international flights.
As part of the airport’s security upgrades, NNIC completed the procurement of a new explosive detection system (EDS) in June 2024, which will be installed in early 2025. Additionally, the Bureau of Immigration is working on implementing a new “fly-to-gate” biometric passenger system, which will make the travel process smoother and faster for everyone.
To make your time at NAIA more comfortable, internet speeds have been boosted, with free Wi-Fi access now available at speeds of up to 115 Mbps for three hours.
Landside Improvements
Inside the airport, NNIC has freed up around 1,800 parking slots, making it easier to get in and out of the airport. Traffic flow, which is essential given the 140,000 daily passengers, has already improved. The company is also working on expanding and enhancing the road network around the airport, including new toll exits from the NAIA Expressway to ease congestion.
Curbsides are also getting a makeover. More lanes will be added for pick-up and drop-off, so passengers won’t have to deal with long wait times and heavy traffic. For example, Terminal 1’s curbside will go from 3 to 8 lanes, Terminal 2 from 4 to 8 lanes, and Terminal 3 from 8 to 12 lanes.
A new Overseas Filipino Workers’ (OFW) lounge has also been opened at Terminal 3, offering comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi, and food and drinks to make their wait more pleasant.
Power Security and Terminal Assignments
NNIC has taken major steps to ensure that the airport never loses power during critical operations. They’ve partnered with Meralco to install a 115KV substation and with Mserv for a 6.12 MW uninterruptible power supply system for Terminal 3. This will keep the airport running smoothly, especially during peak hours.
In addition, NNIC is working with airlines to implement new terminal assignments by the first quarter of 2025. This move will reduce congestion at the busiest terminals and make sure that planes are using the runways efficiently.
Government Revenue and Employee Support
NNIC has also shown its commitment to the long-term success of NAIA by making an upfront payment of Php 30 billion to the government and starting regular annuity payments. On top of that, the company has invested Php 420 million to ensure a smooth transition for employees, including signing bonuses for MIAA and LSERV personnel.
“We’re here for the long haul. Our financial commitments show our dedication to improving NAIA, and supporting our people and the government,” said Ang.
Despite facing challenges during the transition, Ang remains hopeful. “We know that NAIA’s problems can’t be solved overnight, but we’re doing everything we can to improve the airport quickly and efficiently. We’re working hard so that travelers will have a better experience every time they pass through.”
