betton888 @ saku21 NAIA shatters record for passenger traffic, flights

THE Ninoy Aquino International Airport (Naia) shattered its previous records for passenger traffic and flights in 2024, handling 50.1 million passengers last year, a 5.08-percent increase from its prepandemic peak in 2019 and a 10.43-percent jump from 2023.

Similarly, the airport recorded 293,488 flights in 2024, marking an 8.08-percent growth compared to 2019 and a 4.83-percent rise from the previous year.

“More Filipinos are flying, and more visitors are coming to the Philippines,” said Ramon S. Ang, President of New Naia Infra Corp. (NNIC). “This growth is a clear sign that confidence in air travel has returned, and it motivates us to work even harder. Our goal is to ensure that Naia provides a better experience for everyone—passengers, airlines, and partners alike.”

San Miguel Corp.-led NNIC assumed management of the airport in September.

Since then, NNIC has introduced key infrastructure and service improvements to enhance the airport experience.

Expanded curbside areas and a centralized transport hub at Terminal 3 are among the initiatives aimed at alleviating congestion and streamlining ground transportation.

Additional seating, upgraded airconditioning units, and free high-speed Wi-Fi are also in place to ensure passenger comfort and convenience.

It also implemented operational improvements to accommodate growing passenger volumes, including enhancing the airport’s On-Time Performance (OTP).

During the peak holiday travel period from December 30 to January 1, Naia achieved an average OTP of 83.36 percent, with a record-breaking 88.35 percent on December 31—the highest performance rate since NNIC took over.

Looking ahead to 2025, Ang said NNIC aims to further upgrade infrastructure and streamline operations to meet rising passenger demand.