As the Holy Week approaches, the Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) is gearing up for an anticipated surge in travelers at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), with all its four terminals expected to hit over one million passengers.
MIAA General Manager Eric Jose Ines forecasts a 15 percent increase in passenger volume this year compared to last year’s 926,755 individuals who passed through NAIA from Palm Sunday to Easter Sunday.
Records during the first 14 days of March showed that the number of passengers has already reached 1,853,132 with a daily average of 132,367.
“Our domestic operations, in particular, have been consistently surpassing pre-pandemic flight movement and passenger volume,” Ines said.
We anticipate travelers taking advantage of exploring local destinations, the ease and convenience of air travel, summer airline promotions, or simply vacationing and being with family during this time,” he added.
Ines said MIAA is ready to handle this influx of passengers, particularly as Holy Week coincides with summer, historically a peak season for air travel.
To ensure a smooth travel experience during this peak season, MIAA has made comprehensive preparations. This includes bolstering manpower, optimizing facilities, and conducting routine maintenance checks on critical airport utilities.
Standby generators are in place to mitigate potential power outages, and maintenance activities have been completed to enhance terminal infrastructure.
In response to potential disruptions, MIAA will provide “malasakit kits” to affected passengers and deploy assistance desks across all terminals. Additionally, key officials will oversee these help desks, while a “no leave policy” will be observed among management personnel.
To accommodate the increased flight activity, MIAA has adjusted the closure schedule of Runway 06/24 on the following dates: March 25 and 27 and April 1 and 3.
Moreover, close collaboration with government agencies within NAIA ensures efficient management of immigration and security checkpoints.
Airlines are reminded to prepare for contingencies and adhere to passenger rights regulations. Local carriers are advised to establish help desks within their areas, with government agencies ready to provide assistance.
MIAA continues to coordinate with relevant authorities to manage traffic flow around the terminals. With these measures in place, MIAA aims to facilitate a seamless travel experience for the influx of passengers expected during the Holy Week period.