The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) has announced the opening of Vigan Airport which was refurbished to further spur economic growth and progress in Ilocos Sur.
CAAP director general Jim Sydiongco, Transportation secretary Arturo Tugade and other local government officials in Ilocos Sur led the inauguration of the newly expanded and rehabilitated airport.
Sydiongco said the project, which costs more than P76.5 million covers the expansion and rehabilitation of the existing passenger terminal building, and constructions of 5,000 and 10,000 gallons overhead water tanks, administration building, power house, vehicular parking area, turn-around pads, box culvert, runway drainage system, and cyclone wire perimeter fence.
He added the improvement also include additional electrical works at the power house, strip width correction, provision of runway strip end, and runway end safety area at runway end 02.
With the development project, an additional 294 square meters was added to the terminal building, expanding it from 238 square meters to 532 square meters.
The expansion has also allowed for separate spaces for pre-departure, check-in, and arrival areas which were all previously located in a common area.
Now, the pre-departure area also increased its capacity from 40 seats to 150 seats, providing a more spacious and comfortable lounge for departing passengers.
“CAAP, with the support of Secretary Art Tugade, was able to accomplish many things in terms of improving aviation infrastructure despite the pandemic and other limitations we have faced over the years. That is why we are proud to be inaugurating Vigan Airport today. Vigan Airport is an asset to the city and the province of Ilocos Sur and will greatly boost the heritage city’s tourism,” said Sydiongco.
In the years to come, CAAP plans to continue improving Vigan Airport with the construction of a control tower building, power supply, and the supply/installation of communications and MET equipment as well as the construction of perimeter fence and drainage system.