With passenger volumes and flight counts predicted to surpass those recorded during Undas and over the same period in 2023, New NAIA Infra Corp. (NNIC) is preparing for what is expected to be the busiest holiday travel season at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) this year.

From the present to 3 January, the NNIC said it anticipates 2.296 million passengers to use its terminals, marking an increase of 10.95 percent compared to the same period the previous year.

In preparation for the surge, the NNIC maintained that it has proactively collaborated with key stakeholders, including the Department of Transportation (DoTr), the Philippine National Police-Aviation Security Group (PNP-AVSEGROUP), the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority the Bureau of Customs, the Bureau of Immigration, the Bureau of Quarantine, and the Manila International Airport Authority.

Measures taken include expanded staffing, improved terminal operations and strengthened security protocols to effectively handle the increased passenger volume.

Additionally, the NNIC has coordinated with airline operators to ensure that more check-in counters are operational earlier than usual to reduce waiting times during peak hours.

“Christmas is a time to connect with loved ones, family, and friends, and even though this is one of NAIA’s busiest seasons, we are working hard to make the experience as safe and comfortable as possible for all passengers,” NNIC president Ramon S. Ang said.

Since assuming control of NAIA 90 days ago, the NNIC has made several enhancements to the passenger experience in preparation for the holiday rush. These include:

Expanded Curbside Areas: Additional drop-off and pickup lanes to ease congestion and improve traffic flow around the terminals.

Centralized Transport Hub: A dedicated hub at Terminal 3 for ride-hailing services and metered taxis, offering more organized ground transportation options.

Improved Comfort: New air-conditioning units across all terminals to enhance passenger comfort.

Faster Connectivity: Upgraded WiFi services providing free, high-speed internet access.

Increased Seating and Trolleys: Terminal 1 now features 400 new gang chairs, while Terminal 3 has added 500 new trolleys as part of a 2,500-trolley order for deployment this month.

To add to the festive atmosphere, the NNIC has launched the NAIA “Fly and Win” Promo, which offers passengers a chance to win luxury cars.

The raffle, running until 15 January 2025, includes a 2024 BMW 3 Series Sedan for one domestic passenger and a 2024 BMW X5 for one international passenger.

Travelers can join the raffle by scanning QR codes displayed throughout the airport, linking to NNIC’s e-raffle system. Each flight to or from NAIA earns passengers an e-ticket entry, increasing chances for those making multiple trips.

The winners will be drawn on January 17, 2025, in the presence of a Department of Trade and Industry representative.

“We want to thank our passengers for their ongoing support and make this season even more special,” Ang stated.

Passengers are advised to check flight information directly with their airlines via official websites and to arrive at least 2.5 to 3 hours before domestic flights and 3.5 to 4 hours before international flights.

To expedite security checks, travelers are encouraged to pack carefully and adhere to carry-on baggage restrictions.

“We appreciate the public’s continued trust in NAIA as we strive to deliver a warm and welcoming experience that embodies the holiday spirit,” Ang added.