NAIA flights increased by 30,000 in 2023

MANILA, Philippines — The number of flights at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) increased last year, according to Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista.

From 250,000 in 2022, the number of flights climbed to 280,000 or an increase of 30,000.

Bautista acknowledged the efforts of the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) to increase flight movements per hour, saying this will boost one of the most important projects of the government, which is to privatize the operations and maintenance of the NAIA.

The CAAP targets to increase aircraft movements per hour from the current 40 to 44, and to 48 to support the volume of passengers and flights once NAIA operations expand.

With the expansion, passenger capacity is expected to double from the current 32 million per year.

“CAAP will play a crucial role in making these projects happen,” Bautista said.

CAAP chief Manuel Tamayo directed his men to prepare for upcoming events this year, noting the Philippines is set to host the Conference of Directors General of Civil Aviation for the Asia and Pacific Regions, which will be attended by over 400 foreign delegates.