NAIA opens TNVS hub

MANILA, Philippines — Metered taxis and ride-hailing services will now operate in a dedicated hub at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3.

The transport network vehicle service (TNVS) hub aims to improve traffic flow by reducing curbside congestion during drop-offs and pick ups.

With 401 parking slots, 18 loading bays and designated lanes for taxi services, the hub is located within the multilevel parking building at Terminal 3, New NAIA Infrastructure Corp. (NNIC) general manager Angelito Alvarez said yesterday.

Ride-hailing giant Grab Philippines was the first to move to the facility during the soft launch on Dec. 5.

Transport app JoyRide PH will enter the TNVS hub tomorrow, bringing premium taxis through its SuperTaxi, which offers five-seater rides at no extra cost.

Motorcycle taxi service pioneer Angkas will join the hub through its four-wheel option, Angcars.

The NNIC has secured the commitment of these TNVS operators to raise their airport fleet during the holiday season, Alvarez said.

TNVS operators assured passengers that service charges would remain comparable to coupon taxis to maintain affordability.

Passengers may make on-the-spot bookings at dedicated lounges if they have no account for a ride-hailing app.

As part of efforts to solve traffic congestion, the NNIC is also widening curbside lanes at Terminals 1, 2 and 3.

Led by San Miguel Corp., the NNIC is tasked to undertake the P170.6-billion upgrade of the NAIA, considered by international standards as one of the worst airports.

Under private control, NAIA is expected to grow its passenger capacity to 62 million per year and scale up aircraft movement to 48 per hour, preparing the gateway for future demand.