The New NAIA Infra Corp. (NNIC), operator of Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) has started the procurement of new advanced system to replace NAIA’s 20-year old baggage handling system at the country’s main gateway.
This came after Cebu Pacific (CEB) reported over 800 passengers experienced delays in getting their check-in baggage due to ongoing technical issues with the baggage handling system at Terminal 3.
In a statement, NNIC acknowledged the urgent need to upgrade the aging baggage system at NAIA and currently closely coordinating with CEB to address the malfunction which has disrupted the processing of passengers’ checked-in luggage.
“To minimize the impact on travelers, both NNIC and Cebu Pacific have increased manpower to expedite baggage processing. Additionally, alternative systems and protocols have been activated to resolve the issue as swiftly as possible.” NNIC said
Since taking over management on September 14, NNIC has been working in phases to modernize the airport’s facilities and critical systems.
Part of their top priority is the replacement of baggage handling system. The consortium has already procured a new, advanced system, with additional redundancy measures set to be implemented to prevent future disruptions and enhance operational efficiency.
The issue of delayed baggage at Terminal 3 started last October 18 and as of 1:15 p.m. yesterday, a total of 821 passengers have left- behind bags as the Terminal 3 baggage handling system is not working, said Carmina Romero, CEB spokesperson.
CEB said it has established a dedicated team to manage the situation. Passengers were given the choice of having their bags delivered to their destination or picking them up at the airport for domestic flights.
For international flights, a similar option is available along with delivery services for passengers with onward destinations.
“Our teams are doing everything in their power to expedite baggage deliveries and ensure all affected passengers are assisted promptly,” the airline said.
“We understand the inconvenience this has caused and appreciate our passengers’ patience and understanding,” it added.
Meanwhile, AirAsia Philippines which operates all its international flights at NAIA Terminal 3 yesterday said it has not encountered delays in baggage handling.
