NAIA turboprop ban set, adjustments likely

The Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) is moving forward with its plan to implement a ban on turboprop flights at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) by the end of the month.

The decision, however, could be reconsidered as newly appointed Transportation Secretary Vivencio Dizon joins the Manila Slot Coordination Committee.

In an interview with reporters on Monday, MIAA general manager Eric Jose Castro Ines confirmed that the ban is set to proceed but indicated that adjustments may still be possible.

“That was decided already and 30 percent of the turboprop flights would have to go to Clark International Airport (CIA),” Ines said.

Asked if there was a possibility of lifting the ban or modifying the transfer plan to Clark, Ines said: “I think so. I cannot really tell because it all depends since we have a new member.”

The transfer of turboprop flights to the CIA is aimed at easing the congestion at Manila’s primary airport while providing a more efficient travel experience for passengers.

By 30 March, airlines are required to move 30 percent of their turboprop operations from NAIA to secondary airports, with all turboprop flights relocated by 26 October.

Budget airline Cebu Pacific, the country’s largest domestic carrier, operates 15 turboprops through its subsidiary, Cebgo, flying to island destinations. Cebgo currently operates from NAIA Terminal 2, serving routes to Busuanga, Caticlan, Cebu, Legazpi, Masbate, Naga, San Jose, Siargao and Surigao.

In line with the new policy, Cebu Pacific will transfer Cebgo’s Masbate and Siargao flights to the CIA. While the Masbate flight frequency remains the same, flights to Siargao will be reduced to two per week. Additionally, the airline will discontinue its Manila-Surigao service by month’s end.

Passenger safety ensured

Meanwhile, responding to the NAIA “tanim bala” incident, the NAIA operator, New NAIA Infra Corp. (NNIC), committed to boosting coordination with the OTS and other authorities to provide a secure and seamless airport experience.

“Passenger safety and security at NAIA is a shared effort among multiple government agencies, each with its responsibilities. Regarding reports of a suspected bullet shell detected in a passenger’s bag during screening at NAIA Terminal 3, NNIC immediately coordinated with OTS and reviewed CCTV footage related to the case,” NNIC said.

“To prevent similar incidents and strengthen public confidence, NNIC is working with OTS to reinforce security monitoring, proper screening procedures, and transparency in security operations. Our priority is to maintain an airport environment that is safe and efficient for all travelers,” it added.