The New NAIA Infra Corp. (NNIC), the private sector operator of Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), reports a strong performance despite the challenges of handling a surge in travelers during the recent Undas peak season. From 29 October to 4 November, NAIA processed 932,405 passengers and 5,627 flights—record levels not seen in the last four years.
Although NNIC assumed control of the 76-year-old airport less than two months earlier, the company delivered an 87.99 percent on-time performance (OTP) for arriving flights, exceeding the industry standard of around 80 percent. This achievement highlights the NAIA’s effectiveness in managing air traffic flow and providing a smooth arrival experience for passengers.
However, departure OTP was slightly below expectations, at 75.46 percent, primarily due to baggage handling challenges. The delays were mainly caused by malfunctions in the lower deck loaders used to load and unload baggage, as well as shortages in available equipment and staff. These issues were especially pronounced during peak travel periods, exacerbated by long immigration queues.
NNIC has already engaged airlines and their ground handlers to address these issues, with discussions centered around enhancing baggage handling infrastructure and increasing staff levels to ensure a smoother operation. The company has also emphasized the importance of airlines investing in additional equipment to expedite baggage delivery and reduce delays.
In an effort to improve operational transparency and keep passengers informed, NNIC has rolled out a new initiative that provides real-time updates on flight and baggage delays through NAIA’s public address (PA) system. The initiative is aimed at reducing passenger anxiety by delivering timely, accurate information, directly from official channels, rather than relying on unverified sources like social media.
To further enhance security and efficiency, NNIC has procured a new explosive detection system (EDS) for Terminal 3’s baggage handling system. The new system, which is expected to be installed by early 2025, will replace the outdated 20-year-old system that has occasionally malfunctioned. In the meantime, redundancy measures have been put in place to ensure continued safe operations.
NNIC is also committed to reinforcing accountability by publishing monthly performance reports that detail operational metrics and identify the causes of any delays. These reports will allow passengers and stakeholders to gain a clearer understanding of the challenges faced by the airport and the steps being taken to address them.
As part of its long-term plan to improve the overall travel experience, NNIC is working closely with airport stakeholders to implement infrastructure and system upgrades in the coming months. These efforts aim to streamline passenger flow, enhance operational efficiency, and continue improving the quality of service at NAIA.
