MANILA — The New NAIA Infra Corp. (NNIC), a consortium led by San Miguel Corporation and Incheon International Airport Corporation of South Korea, officially assumed management of Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) on Saturday (14 Sept 2024).
Their mission is to modernize the 76-year-old airport and transform it into a world-class facility.
NNIC is set to invest PHP170 billion in a phased upgrade plan that aims to boost the airport’s passenger capacity from 43 million to 62 million annually while increasing air traffic movements from 42 to 48 per hour.
The partnership will also generate approximately P1 trillion in government revenues over a 25-year concession period, with the government receiving an 82.16% revenue share each year.
For travelers, airport operations will continue as usual, with no disruptions to flights, check-ins, or services. However, passengers can look forward to noticeable improvements in the months ahead.
Key upgrades include:
– *Within 3 to 6 months:* Functional escalators, stable power, and water supply, upgraded baggage handling, improved air conditioning, faster passenger processing, more seating, and enhanced WiFi.
– *Within 3 years:* Runway enhancements, expanded terminal capacity, improved commercial spaces, better traffic flow, and a direct link from NAIA Terminal 3 to the Skyway.
– *Long-term:* A new terminal building to handle an additional 35 million passengers annually, flood mitigation efforts, and a connection to the Metro Manila Subway.
NNIC President Ramon S. Ang acknowledged the challenges but expressed confidence in meeting their goals. “We ask for the public’s patience. While it will take time, we aim to make quick improvements within the first few months,” Ang stated.
With government support and the cooperation of airlines, passengers, and airport staff, Ang is optimistic that NAIA will soon become an airport that Filipinos can be proud of.
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