The Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) is bracing for an anticipated surge in passenger traffic during the upcoming long weekends.
To prepare, the MIAA said it has activated a program called “Oplan Biyaheng Ayos: Barangay and SK Elections and Undas 2023.”
The MIAA said it expects approximately 1.2 million passengers to pass through the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) over ten days starting October 27.
According to MIAA officer-in-charge Bryan Co, daily passenger traffic during this period could go beyond 130,000, which is more than last year’s average of 94,000 passengers daily.
The total number of passengers for the whole 2022 Undas season was 945,156. In 2019, there was an average of 129,000 passengers daily, reaching a season total of 1,427,805.
In the first ten days of October, the current volume of travelers has already reached 1,150,671, with daily counts ranging from 110,000 to 121,000 passengers.
MIAA, in collaboration with the Department of Transportation (DOTr), is fully prepared to handle the expected surge in travelers. Comprehensive preparations and contingencies have been put in place to ensure the safety and convenience of all passengers.
“It is crucial for us to proactively plan for a passenger influx comparable to pre-pandemic levels. Additionally, we anticipate that more Filipinos will take advantage of this opportunity to visit their hometowns or even travel abroad for vacations,” said Co.
To ensure a smooth travel experience, the authority encourages travelers to plan their trips meticulously and arrive at the airport three hours before international flights and two hours before domestic flights.
Passengers are advised to visit airline websites and relevant airport agencies for guidance on prohibited items on board an aircraft, passenger rights information, immigration concerns, customs concerns, travel tax payment, and eTravel registration.