ComClark pushes forward with $600-M air traffic upgrade

ComClark Network and Technology Corp. (ComClark), led by businessman Dennis Anthony Uy, is preparing to submit additional documents to complete its $600-million unsolicited proposal to modernize the country’s air traffic control system.

In an interview on Monday, Uy revealed that the company is set to provide regulators with a document detailing the technical capabilities of their partner, Enaire, Spain’s national air navigation service provider.

Under the implementing rules and regulations of the Public-Private Partnership Law, ComClark must present proof of a “technical services agreement with experienced operators.”

Proven track record

Enaire, ComClark’s partner, has a proven track record in air traffic management, having recently implemented its new iFOCUCS air control posts in Valencia, Spain, as part of its modernization efforts.

Despite reports in December 2024 indicating that the Department of Transportation (DoTr) had rejected ComClark’s initial proposal, Uy remains optimistic about the proposal.

“This is just documentation… The proposal is still with them. We just have to submit the supplement documents,” Uy said.

Urgent implementation

For Uy, the project needs urgent implementation to finally replace a 14-year-old outdated system for an improved passenger experience.

“We need to change it, or else it’s not efficient at all,” he added.

ComClark’s proposal aims to separate the regulatory and operational functions of the country’s air traffic management system, which are currently handled by the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines.

Likewise, Uy is confident in securing the necessary capital needed to support the project.

“If the project is good, we have a lot of banks that we can tap,” he said.

Overhaul to span several years

The proposed overhaul is expected to span several years and will include the establishment of a training institute, as well as ensuring system redundancy by operating two air traffic control centers.

Currently, CAAP manages more than 40 airports nationwide while also regulating air transport.