The New NAIA Infra Corp. (NNIC) which recently took over the management of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) met with aviation authorities to discuss the modernization of the said airport.
The NNIC met with officials of the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) and discussed improving taxiways; weather and lighting systems; and air traffic control facilities and how to enhance operations and increase aircraft movements at NAIA.
The two organizations also discussed how to enhance NAIA’s personnel and training programs.
The NNIC also said it will support the refurbishing of the Civil Aviation Training Center (CATC) in Merville, Pasay City, including upgrading the training facilities and purchasing new tower simulators.
NAIA takeover
On September 14, NNIC took over NAIA and assured the public that airport operations would continue as usual upon their takeover.
Any future changes or improvements, including terminal reassignments, will be implemented gradually and strategically, the company said.
Phased terminal reassignments in airport
NNIC General Manager Angelito Alvarez emphasized that terminal reassignments will not be a sudden, one-time event, but rather a carefully planned and phased process to be done in close coordination with airline stakeholders.
These changes are part of a broader plan to modernize the airport and elevate the overall passenger experience.
He added that NAIA travelers can expect a smooth transition with minimal disruptions as NNIC will focus on gradual improvements and phased terminal changes over time.
Background
NNIC is a private entity that has taken over the management of the NAIA in the Philippines.
This transition is part of a government initiative to improve the efficiency and operations of the country’s main gateway.
As the new operator, NNIC is responsible for overseeing various aspects of NAIA’s operations, including:
- Airport management: This encompasses tasks such as passenger handling, baggage processing, security, and ground handling.
- Infrastructure development: NNIC will be involved in upgrading and modernizing NAIA’s facilities, including terminals, runways, and other infrastructure.
- Operations optimization: The company will aim to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of NAIA’s operations, reducing delays and improving overall passenger experience.
The transition to private management is expected to bring significant benefits to NAIA and the Philippines as a whole. By leveraging private sector expertise and investment, NNIC is expected to improve the airport’s performance and contribute to the country’s economic growth.
Here are some of the latest developments regarding NNIC and its takeover of NAIA:
- Imminent takeover: NNIC is set to officially take over the management of NAIA on Saturday, September 14, 2024.
- Terminal reassignments: The company has announced plans to reassign airlines to different terminals to improve efficiency and decongest the airport. However, airlines have expressed concerns and requested consultations before any changes are implemented.
- No immediate passenger fee increases: NNIC has assured passengers that there will be no increase in terminal fees for at least a year.
- Modernization plans: The company has committed to investing in the modernization of NAIA’s infrastructure, including improvements to terminals, runways, and parking facilities.
- Focus on passenger experience: NNIC aims to enhance the overall passenger experience at NAIA through improved facilities, efficient operations, and better customer service
SMC and NNIC
San Miguel Corporation (SMC) and NNIC are closely related entities. NNIC is actually a wholly-owned subsidiary of SMC, established specifically to manage the NAIA.
SMC’s involvement in NNIC reflects its strategic interest in infrastructure development and its desire to contribute to the modernization of the Philippines’ transportation sector.
By taking over the management of NAIA, NNIC aims to improve the airport’s efficiency, enhance passenger experience, and contribute to the country’s economic growth.
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