Airports ready for holiday passengers

To accommodate the anticipated surge in travelers during the Christmas and New Year holidays, the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) has taken measures to ensure that the airports it oversees are well-equipped to handle the higher passenger volume.

In order to guarantee the safety, dependability, and convenience of airport operations during the holiday season, the agency has implemented added security measures and increased the presence of service and security personnel at the 12 area centers that cater to commercial flights. This is to accommodate the influx of returning overseas Filipinos, civilians, and tourists.

Under the directives of the Department of Transportation’s (DOTr) “Oplan Biyaheng Ayos: Pasko 2023,” running from December 15, 2023, to January 3, 2024, other government agencies operating at the airports, including the Office for Transportation Security (OTS) and the Philippine National Police Aviation Security Group (PNP-Avsegroup) will also ensure a smooth passenger flow while strictly implementing security and public safety protocols.

CAAP said its Malasakit Help Desks stationed at passenger arrival and departure areas are prepared to assist travelers and promptly address any concerns from the riding public.

Additionally, travelers are reminded not to carry any objects that are not allowed at the airport and to pack all personal belongings in their carry-on luggage for faster processing at the screening checkpoints.

The CAAP regularly prepares for the increase in passenger influx during the holiday season.

In December 2022, CAAP airports welcomed over 2 million domestic and international passengers, totaling to 20.5 million passengers for 2022.