Better MCIA check-in area unveiled

CEBU, Philippines - The GMR-Megawide Cebu Airport Corporation opened yesterday its new domestic departure check-in area adorned with tropical plants.

Andrew Acquaah-Harrison, Chief Executive Advisor said they made a ‘soft renovation’ of the existing terminal since it was only designed to accommodate 4.5 million passengers.

“Today it has over 7.2 million passengers, so the terminal is already above its capacity,” Harrison said.

Shorter queues and better washrooms are just two of the improvements one the company did while an architecture and interior design team composed of locals and foreign nationals did the design, which is friendly to passengers especially to persons with disabilities.

“Washroom and hygiene is a very important factor,” Harrison said.

A new IT system providing flight information and common user check-in assistance will take place in March next year, according to Harrison.

“Over 63 percent of those who traveled to and from the airport are nervous about the experience; and the best way to reduce their nervousness is to create a warm and welcoming environment”, he said.

Yesterday, he did a quick tour to show the media what’s new about the MCIA airport, in which the old entrance check-in area for domestic flight was transferred to the exit part.

The MCIA now has a spacious and well-lighted lobby adorned with plants, with young palm trees placed in large pots standing by the side of the lobby.

Harrison said the terminal is now more relaxing and now has a refreshing ambiance to the passengers.

Lactation stations for breastfeeding mothers are also available, making it easier for them to provide for the immediate needs of their babies while waiting for their flight.

The baggage claim carousel would also be extended and the baggage trolleys  placed near  for the convenience of passengers.

The area assigned for the families and friends waiting for arriving passengers will remain infront of the baggage area, which would be airconditioned and would feature shops.

Asked about how much their company spent and would spend in sprucing up the terminal, Harrison said they are not thinking about the expense.

“We are not driven by the budget, we are driven by the needs of the people. We spend wisely,” he said. — Christell Fatima M. Tudtud/RHM (FREEMAN)