It is an estimate that is slightly up from last year.
In a statement, airport operator New NAIA Infra Corp. (NNIC) noted uts projection for the nine-day Undas travel period, which will be from October 27 (Tuesday) until November 4 (Wednesday, the following week).
According to the group, they expect the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) to handle approximately 1.25 million passengers during this period.
It is an estimate that is 1% higher from the 1.24 million passengers it recorded during the same period last year.
It also sees the possibility of October 30 (Friday) as its busiest day, when 149,000 people are expected to pass through its three terminals.
In line with this, the NNIC disclosed that it is already stepping up preparations for the travel rush.
Currently, there are already “round-the-clock operational monitoring, additional personnel and passenger assistance services during peak periods, heightened security, and closer coordination with airlines, ground handlers, transport providers, and government agencies.”
It has also set up a 24-hour Command Center at Terminal 2 to oversee coordination and incident response.
Furthermore, the NNIC said that it is working closely with different government agencies such as the Department of Transportation (DOTr), Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA), Office for Transportation Security (OTS), Philippine National Police–Aviation Security Group (PNP-ASG), Bureau of Immigration (BI), Bureau of Customs (BOC), Bureau of Quarantine (BOQ), and other agencies responsible for airport security, passenger processing, health screening, and border control.
“Security measures include increased police patrols at terminal entrances, curbside areas, and parking facilities, along with K-9 patrols and stricter access controls,” NNIC also disclosed, adding that additional screening personnel and checkpoints will be available during peak hours.
As regards to equipment problems, technical teams are already on standby.
The airport operator also said that immigration, customs, and quarantine counters will also be staffed according to demand, with additional counters operating during peak periods to help manage queues.
There are also 24/7 Public Assistance Desks at the arrival and departure areas of Terminals 1, 2, and 3, where travelers can seek information, directions, medical assistance, and help for other concerns.
Traffic marshals are also deployed to manage heavy vehicle traffic, whole they are also adjusting taxi and shuttle services during peak periods.
“Inter-terminal shuttles will also be scheduled around passenger arrival and departure peaks, while additional porters and baggage carts will be available,” it added.
Meanwhile, over at the airside, NNIC will also closely coordinate aircraft parking arrangements to accommodate additional or unscheduled flights and reduce delays caused by aircraft stand availability.
On top of that, the medical, fire, safety, engineering, and technical teams will also remain on duty throughout the travel period.
PASSENGER REMINDERS
NNIC has advised passengers to arrive at least three hours before international flights and two hours before domestic flights.
They are also asked to check their flight status and assigned terminal before leaving home, and allow extra time for road traffic and security screening.
Travelers are also encouraged to check in online, where available; prepare their travel documents; and comply with baggage restrictions.
For knternational passengers, they can fill out the online eTravel form within 72 hours before their scheduled arrival or departure through the official eTravel platform or the eGovPH app.
“Meanwhile, passengers are advised to use only authorized airport transport services and report illegal solicitors to airport personnel or police. Those needing assistance may approach the Public Assistance Desks at their respective terminals,” the NNIC added.
