The tourism industry is getting a boost from the operation of eight modern airports across the Philippines within the year. The completion of these airport modernization projects amid the pandemic will hopefully complement the government’s efforts to fully reopen the economy toward the end of the year.
The Department of Transportation this week said the government will inaugurate next month a new passenger terminal building in the new Clark International Airport. The terminal will triple the airport’s passenger volume from 4.2 million to 12.2 million annually. The DOTR is touting the bigger Clark airport as “Asia’s next premier gateway” that will help decongest the passenger traffic at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Parañaque City.
An airport with modern features attracts local and foreign tourists alike. Weary tourists, especially those with connecting flights, look for airport conveniences to ease the rigors of travel. Their pleasant travel experience contributes to the positive feedback that they could share to friends and families. Tourism is nurtured this way, with the airport experience serving as the tourist’s first impression of the country or travel destination.
The government is also inaugurating Catarman Airport, Butuan Airport, Busuanga Airport, Zamboanga Airport, Siquijor Airport and General Santos Airport within four months, and the Bicol International Airport before the end of the year. The operation of these modern airports is significant to tourism and the general economy. Modern airports lure local and foreign investors. The ease of travel facilitates businesses that will eventually lead to increased economic activities and create job opportunities in the provinces.
New and modern airports equate to increased tourism activities. With travel easing in many parts of the world because of an aggressive vaccine rollout, international flights and foreign tourists will soon reach the Philippines in increasing numbers. The country should be ready when the travel season resumes in this part of the world.