The operator of Ninoy Aquino International Airport expects to meet its projected 45 million passengers and 275,000 flights this year, with a holiday surge in traffic. | Photo by Dianne Bacelonia.  
NEWS

Airports are ready for holiday passengers

Anthony Ching

In anticipation of the anticipated surge in air travel over the Christmas and New Year seasons, airports under the control of the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines have been placed on high alert.

In accordance with the Department of Transportation's (DOTr) "Oplan Biyaheng Ayos: Pasko 2023," which is in effect from 15 December 2023 to 3 January 2024, all 12 area centers that handle CAAP airports that accept commercial flights are now observing additional security measures and personnel deployment to ensure safe, dependable, and convenient airport operations during the holiday travel season by returning overseas Filipinos, civilians, and tourists.

The Office of Transportation Security and the Philippine National Police Aviation Security Group, two government organizations that are active at the airports, will also station personnel in high-risk areas to facilitate passenger flow while closely adhering to security and public safety protocols.

Malasakit Help Desks are also available to assist travelers and respond quickly to inquiries from the riding public. They are positioned at the passenger arrival and departure areas.

Additionally, travelers are reminded not to bring prohibited items to the airport and to stow all belongings in one's carry-on baggage for faster processing at the screening checkpoints.

The CAAP has frequently anticipated the increased number of passengers over the Christmas season. Over 2 million domestic and international travelers arrived at CAAP airports on 20 December 2022, bringing the total number of passengers for the year to 20.5 million.