State-owned Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) is ready to handle the anticipated surge in passenger volume in all the 42 airports it operates nationwide this coming Undas.
During the interview at Bagong Pilipinas Ngayon, Eric Apolonio, CAAP spokesperson, said starting October 13, CAAP has increased its manpower in all the 42 commercial airports in preparation for the Undas and barangay election.
CAAP employees are also in full force as the current ridership has reached 25 million, exceeding last year’s passenger volume of 21.5 million.
“(This year) we expect 30 to 31 million passengers against the 21 million last year,” Apolonio said.
Following the recently reported bomb jokes, Apolonio said CAAP airports are currently on heightened alert status which will be maintained during Undas.
The International Civil Aviation Organization requires airport security personnel on duty to ensure that passengers and their baggage are screened thoroughly prior to boarding the aircraft.
To further ensure safe, secure, reliable and convenient air travel for passengers, all 12 area managers handling CAAP-operated airports with commercial flights nationwide shall ensure the maximum deployment of service and security personnel. Thus, a “no leave” policy will be implemented during the period.
CAAP has also requested the additional deployment of personnel from airline stakeholders to accommodate the increase in travelers.
CAAP requests all passengers who will travel internationally to arrive at the airport at least three hours before their scheduled flight to avoid any inconvenience.
