OFFICIALS of the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) and the New NAIA Infra Corp (NNIC), the new operator of Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) led by President and CEO Ramon S. Ang, held a meeting to discuss the ongoing modernization project aimed at revitalizing and elevating the country’s main gateway to world-class standards.
Highlighting the meet was the affirmation made by NNIC President and CEO Ramon Ang of his company’s support to CAAP for its hosting of the upcoming 59th Conference of Directors General of Civil Aviation Asia and Pacific Regions (DGCA 59) which is slated to take place in Cebu this October.
In the said meeting, CAAP and NNIC officials discussed critical airport operations and infrastructure projects that include improvements of taxiways, weather and lighting systems and air traffic control facilities.
NNIC manager Lito Alvarez said these upgrades are essential for ensuring smoother operations and increasing the number of aircraft movements at NAIA.
Additionally, officials from both organizations explored potential collaboration towards human capital development to address the country’s growing demand for air navigation professionals and emergency service staff.
Hence, the private consortium cast its support behind CAAP’s extensive training programs for Air Traffic Service (ATS) and Air Navigation Service (ANS) personnel to ensure a steady supply of qualified, skilled and competent controllers and air navigation personnel.
The NNIC led by Ang and Alvarez also pledged to contribute to the refurbishment of the Civil Aviation Training Center (CATC) in Merville, Pasay City. The renovation will include upgrades to the training facilities, including the purchase of new tower simulators.
CAAP and NNIC recognized the need to upgrade Aerodrome Rescue and Fire Fighting (ARFF) training facilities and firefighting equipment to enhance airport safety and emergency preparedness.
ARFF is a consistent component of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Safety Audit. Improving training capabilities and equipment would significantly benefit the overall safety standing of Philippine aviation.
CAAP officials led by Director General Captain Manuel Antonio Tamayo, together with Deputy Director General for Operations Captain Edgardo Diaz, Deputy Director General for Administration Atty. Danjun Lucas and ATS Chief, Marlene Singson attended the said meeting.
