NAIA tops list of airports to undergo major improvements
The Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), the country’s main gateway, has been listed as one of the airports that will undergo major improvements soon, thanks to the enactment of the 2024 General Appropriations Act (GAA) or national budget.
According to a statement released by Makati City 2nd district Rep. Luis Campos Jr. on Wednesday, Jan. 3, a total of 22 airports are on the list for improvement. Specifically, NAIA will receive a budget of P1.64 billion for a new Communications, Navigation and Surveillance-Air Traffic Management (CNS-ATM) system.
This announcement comes after NAIA experienced a major power outage on Jan. 1, 2023, leading to the cancelation of over 400 flights. The incident was reportedly triggered by a glitch in the current CNS-ATM.
Campos, a vice chairperson of the House Committee on Appropriations, explained that the funding is part of the national government’s 2024 Aviation Transport Infrastructure program. He added that Congress has earmarked P7.5 billion this year for the construction, rehabilitation, and improvement of various airports and navigational facilities, including the procurement of equipment.
The spending is intended to sustain the modernization and expansion of the country’s aviation hubs in anticipation of the projected full recovery of global air traffic by 2025. Additionally, it is expected to enhance the overall travel experience of passengers.
Aside from NAIA, other airports scheduled for upgrading include Pag-Asa Island Airport, Kalibo International Airport, Laoag International Airport, Bukidnon Airport, Puerto Princesa Airport, New Zamboanga International Airport, Central Mindanao (M’lang) Airport, Catbalogan Airport, Daet Airport, New Manila International Airport, Candon Airport, Borongan Airport, Iloilo International Airport, Tuguegarao Airport, Bacon Airport, Maasin Airport, Tandag Airport, Jolo Airport, Mati Airport, Surigao Airport, and Vigan Airport. These airports will receive varying budgets for their respective improvements.
