THE New NAIA Infra Corp. (NNIC), in close coordination with government agencies and airline partners, has stepped up preparations at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) to help ensure efficient operations and provide added support throughout the busy travel period, with the expected surge in travelers expected this Holy Week.
NNIC General Manager Angelito Alvarez said that from April 13 to 20, NAIA is expected to welcome more than 1.18 million passengers—a 14.23% increase from last year’s 1.04 million. Flight movements are also projected to rise, from 6,537 in 2024 to 6,724 this year. Good Friday, April 18, is expected to be the busiest day, with 851 flights, while Tuesday, April 15, will see the lightest traffic at 818 flights—still higher than any single day during Holy Week last year.
“Working closely with the Department of Transportation (DOTr), the Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA), Philippine National Police–Aviation Security Group (PNP-AVSEGROUP), Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP), Bureau of Immigration (BI), Bureau of Customs (BOC), Bureau of Quarantine (BOQ) and airline operators, NNIC has activated a full set of measures to maintain safety, security, and reliable terminal operations,” said Alvarez.
It was learned that assistance desks will be operating round-the-clock in all terminals, staffed by airport personnel, medical teams, and uniformed officers, even as additional traffic aides will be deployed to manage curbside and parking flow, while improved Wi-Fi connectivity ensures passengers can stay connected.
These measures, he said, build on the operational improvements made during NNIC’s first six months at NAIA. These include the deployment of more passenger boarding bridges, upgraded security and baggage systems, expanded transport and parking areas, new air-conditioning units, and more reliable power supply. CCTV systems now cover the entire baggage handling process, further strengthening safety and transparency.
So as to avoid delays, NNIC reminded passengers to arrive early—at least three hours before international flights and two hours before domestic ones.
Too, travelers are encouraged to double check their flight details and terminal assignments, make sure their travel documents are complete, and avoid bringing prohibited items in their hand-carry or checked bags.
While the airport is fully operational and support teams are on standby, passengers should expect larger crowds, longer lines at check-in and security, and possible delays due to the high volume of travelers.
“This is a team effort involving not just NNIC, but also our government partners, airline operators, and the entire airport community. Everyone is working hard to keep things running as smoothly as possible as we prepare for the Holy Week rush. We ask for the public’s patience and cooperation in the days ahead, as we work together to make the travel experience better for everyone, ” Alvarez stated.
