Airport Authorities Implement Traffic, Safety Measure This Holiday Season

Wazzup Pilipinas!

In anticipation of the heavy volume of passengers this Christmas, airport officials have laid down measures to ensure safety and convenience of passengers nationwide.

A slot management system is being enforced to make sure airlines depart as scheduled. The system has helped improve the on-time performance (OTP) of airlines, effectively reducing incidents of flight delays. At the Ninoy Aquino International Airport, the OTP of airlines improved from 47% to 71% since the new administration took over.

A two-minute waiting time is also being implemented for people fetching passengers at the airport. Manila International Airport Authority General Manager Ed Monreal appealed to the public to refrain from turning arrival gates into a parking area.

"Kailangan po talaga magtulungan tayo dito," said Monreal at a press briefing today.

To improve the flow of traffic to and from the NAIA, Monreal said MIAA is now coordinating with Villamor Airbase to allow passengers to pass through and decongest traffic especially along Andrews Avenue. Security issues are currently being discussed.

The MIAA is also hopeful that the stretch of NAIA Expressway covering Terminal 3 will open in December.

Capt. Jim Sydiongco, Director General of the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines, also reported that Legazpi, Dumaguete, Roxas, and Caticlan airports are now night-rated. Night landing capabilities will enable airports to accommodate flights after sunset.

In terms of safety and security of passengers, the MIAA will deploy an additional 97 security personnel at the NAIA. The PNP is also ready to augment the airport's security force should it become necessary.

Nine (9) suspects of "salisi" incidents in the NAIA were also presented to the media to show how serious authorities are in ensuring safety of passengers. Since January, a total of 57 "salisi" incidents were reported, wherein 20 have been apprehended.

Monreal also warned airport personnel from asking gifts and favors from passengers this Christmas.

"I have no problem with personnel greeting passengers a 'Merry Christmas,' as long as there is no intention to ask for gifts," he said.

For those who will be found guilty of the act, he warned: "Kapag may nanghingi ng regalo, hindi na yan aabot ng Pasko. Definitely may disciplinary action."