New NAIA Infra Corp. (NNIC) is gearing up for what is expected to be the busiest holiday travel season at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) this year, as passenger numbers and flights are projected to exceed those recorded during Undas and in the same period in 2023.
NNIC anticipates 2.296 million passengers to pass through its terminals from December 20 to January 3, a 10.95% increase from the comparable period last year.
To ensure smooth operations ahead of the peak season, NNIC proactively coordinated with key stakeholders — including regulator Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA), the Department of Transportation (DOTr), the Philippine National Police-Aviation Security Group (PNP-AVSEGROUP), the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), the Bureau of Customs (BOC), the Bureau of Immigration (BI), and the Bureau of Quarantine (BOQ) — to implement additional measures such as increased staffing, optimized terminal operations, and enhanced security protocols, to efficiently manage the anticipated surge in travelers.
NNIC has also been working closely with airline companies to ensure more check-in counters are opened and operational earlier than usual to reduce queuing times during peak hours.
“Christmas is a time for connecting with family, friends, and loved ones, and while this is one of the busiest seasons for NAIA, we are working hard to make the experience as safe and comfortable as possible for all passengers,” said Ramon S. Ang, NNIC President.
Since taking over management of NAIA 90 days ago, NNIC has implemented several improvements designed to enhance passenger experience, in time for the busiest period of the year. These include:
- Expanded Curbside Areas: Additional drop-off and pick-up lanes have been added to ease congestion and improve traffic flow around the terminals.
- Centralized Transport Hub: A dedicated hub at Terminal 3, the busiest terminal, for ride-hailing services and metered taxis, offering more organized ground transportation options.
- Improved Comfort: New airconditioning units installed across all terminals to ensure better cooling and enhanced passenger comfort.
- Faster Connectivity: Upgraded Wi-Fi services now provide free, high-speed internet access to meet the needs of modern travelers.
- Increased Seating and Trolleys: Terminal 1 has been equipped with 400 sets of new gang chairs, while Terminal 3 has added 500 new trolleys as part of the 2,500 trolleys ordered for deployment this month to support passenger convenience.
Additional Holiday Enhancements
To add to the festive atmosphere, NNIC has launched the NAIA “Fly and Win” Promo, offering passengers the chance to win luxury vehicles.
Running from December 16, 2024, to January 15, 2025, the raffle includes a 2024 BMW X5 for one international passenger and a 2024 BMW 3 Series Sedan for one domestic passenger.
Passengers can join by scanning a QR code displayed throughout the airport, linking to NNIC’s e-raffle system. Each flight to or from NAIA earns passengers one e-ticket entry, giving those with return or multiple flights more chances to win.
Winners will be drawn on January 17, 2025, in the presence of a Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) representative.
“This is our way of making the season extra special and thanking our passengers for their continued support,” said Ang.
Meanwhile, NNIC encourages passengers to arrive at least 2.5 to 3 hours before domestic flights and 3.5 to 4 hours before international flights, and to check flight updates directly with their airline through official websites.
Passengers are also advised to pack smartly and follow carry-on baggage restrictions for faster security screening.
“We thank the public for their continued trust in NAIA as we work to provide a welcoming experience that reflects the joy and warmth of the holiday season,” added Ang.
