7 things to expect with NAIA's new management

The New NAIA Infra Corp. (NNIC) officially took over the management and operation of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) on September 14.

NNIC, the consortium that includes San Miguel Corporation (SMC) and Incheon International Airport Corporation, has committed to spend P170 billion to execute its phased but ambitious plan to elevate NAIA to world-class standards.

This includes plans to increase passenger capacity from 43 million to 62 million annually and air traffic movements from 42 to 48 per hour.

Here are 7 things to expect with NAIA’s new management

Faster internet. Passengers at NAIA can now enjoy faster and more reliable free Wi-Fi. This follows upgrades made to internet connectivity by the airport’s new private sector operator, New NAIA Infra Corp. (NNIC).

Average internet speeds at NAIA terminals have significantly increased with passengers now enjoying speeds of 50-60 Mbps, with peak speeds reaching 115 Mbps. Currently, an average of 1,000 users per hour connect to the “NewNAIA” free Wi-Fi network across all terminals.

Passengers can enjoy up to three hours of free access, eliminating the previous two-hour limit and the need to provide personal information. NNIC said it partnered with both PLDT/Smart and Converge as Wi-Fi providers.

More convenient parking. Reports said with higher parking fees, parking services in the airport will now be more convenient. Also, NNIC reported that over 20 abandoned vehicles, some dating back as far as 2014, have been discovered in various parking facilities across NAIA. The company said it is taking action to remove these vehicles to address potential safety hazards and eventually free up limited parking space for passengers.

Improved facilities and infrastructure. The NNIC has pledged to invest significantly in upgrading NAIA’s facilities and infrastructure. This includes improvements to terminals, runways, taxiways, and passenger amenities. You can expect a more comfortable and efficient airport experience.

Increased capacity. One of the main goals of the new management is to increase NAIA’s capacity to handle more passengers. This involves expanding facilities and improving operational efficiency. You may see a reduction in congestion and wait times.

Higher fees, As part of the privatization agreement, the NNIC is allowed to increase fees to recover its investment and fund improvements. Expect to pay more for services like parking, check-in, and baggage handling.

Enhanced security. The new management is committed to improving security at NAIA. This may include stricter screening procedures and the installation of advanced security technology.

Potential disruptions. As the new management takes over and implements changes, there may be temporary disruptions to airport operations. Be prepared for possible delays, cancellations, or other inconveniences during this transition period.

Overall, the new management of NAIA aims to transform the airport into a world-class facility. While there may be challenges and short-term disruptions, the long-term goal is to provide a better travel experience for passengers.