The New NAIA Infrastructure Corp. (NNIC) yesterday said the imposition of new protocols, including higher fees on the meet and assist service (MAS) as well handling of very important persons (VIPs), important persons (IPs) and passengers requesting VIP treatment at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) is yet another measure to curb abuses on the privilege while also ensuring security and operational efficiency.
Prior to the turnover of NAIA’s operation to NNIC, the VIP privileges were easily accessible for P800 per passenger, which is now pegged at P8,000 per passenger.
“For that amount (P800), any passenger could bypass regular airport procedures. This not only created potential security vulnerabilities but also led to operational inefficiencies and an unfair advantage for those who could afford to pay,” NNIC said in a statement.
NNIC also provides three service options for VIPs: P50,000 for up to nine passengers, P100,000 for 10 to 20 passengers, and P140,000 for 21 to 30 passengers.
Under Manila International Airport Authority’s revised Administrative Order (AO) No. 1, MAS is classified as non-regulated fees and charges, which means that adjustments on MAS fees will be determined by the airport operator including amendments thereon.
“All non-regulated fees and charges levied by the airport operator will be pursuant to the provisions of the concession agreement without requiring undergoing the administrative process,” the revised OA said.
With the new rates, NNIC replaces all previous arrangements effective immediately, to curb the misuse of VIP courtesies extended at the airport.
“Our ultimate goal is to create a seamless and efficient airport experience where the need for VIP treatment, beyond what is necessary for dignitaries and those with critical functions, becomes unnecessary. We want every traveler to enjoy an effortless journey through NAIA, regardless of their status,” NNIC said.
Under the new protocol, VIP courtesies and accommodations are exclusively handled by NNIC’s VIP assistance personnel.
Non-passengers will no longer be permitted to provide meet-and-greet services or accompany departing VIPs and IPs, and VIP entourages will be limited to essential personnel to ensure efficient processing and reduce disruptions.
NNIC also said annual passes previously issued for facilitation purposes will be evaluated on a per-case basis, replacing the previous annual pass system.
The company said it will continue to provide secure and efficient travel services for VIPs and IPs, which include high-ranking officials, dignitaries and foreign representatives.
According to NNIC, VIP courtesies are extended as high-ranking officials often require enhanced security measures to mitigate potential threats.
Providing courtesies to foreign dignitaries is standard diplomatic practice and follows national protocol, and expedited processing for travel is necessary for officials with critical responsibilities to the nation, it added.
To discourage non-essential use and manage demand, NNIC will introduce tailored fees for passengers not classified as VIPs or IPs but seeking similar services, such as international performers and other high-profile passengers.
This is consistent with global practices at major airports where premium services are priced at a higher rate, to limit requests while ensuring availability for those who really require them, the company said.
NNIC said it will continue to provide secure and efficient travel services for VIPs and IPs which include high-ranking officials, dignitaries and foreign representatives.
It reiterated that the new protocols prioritize efficiency and fairness for all passengers. Premium services are available for a fee, but the goal is to minimize the need for such assistance, through improved airport processes, the company added.
Last week, NNIC implemented new parking rates at the NAIA to discourage non-travelers from using the airport for long-term parking and ensure that passengers have access to the parking they need when they need it.
Under the new rates, the first two hours of parking will cost P50, up from P40. NNIC said this is still at par with rates at other commercial establishments.
A 24-hour stay costs P1,200 for cars, P480 for motorcycles and P2,400 for buses, from the old rate of P300 for all vehicles.
