ILOILO City – The Iloilo Airport in the town of Cabatuan, Iloilo is gearing up for a significant increase in passenger traffic as the Christmas and New Year celebrations draw near.
The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) in Iloilo anticipates a rise of more than 30 percent in daily passenger numbers starting this week.
This surge is attributed to many Ilonggos returning home for the holidays.
On regular days, the airport handles an average of over 2,000 passengers.
The projected surge in the volume of travelers has raised questions about the airport’s readiness, particularly concerning facilities such as elevators, escalators and restrooms.
Arthur Parreño, CAAP-Iloilo terminal supervisor, said the airport is prepared. He cited intensified security measures, including the conduct of checkpoints.
Two x-ray machines have been installed for screening passengers and vehicles entering the airport premises.
Additionally, CAAP-Iloilo has adjusted the duty hours of its personnel.
Cleaners and operators are on 24-hour duty to ensure that facilities like elevators, escalators, air-conditioning units, and restrooms remain operational.
Parreño also mentioned that repairs are ongoing in some restrooms to address complaints about their condition.
Data from CAAP-Iloilo show that the airport caters to an average of 50 flights per day, including routes to Metro Manila, Cebu, Palawan, Clark Pampanga, and Davao.
Parreño advises passengers to travel earlier than usual and avoid rush days to prevent airport traffic congestion.
He also recommends preparing travel documents and belongings well in advance to avoid delays or missing flights due to last-minute issues.
“That’s always the principle: to arrive early, check in early, and prepare your bags and luggage early. This can prevent significant delays and the possibility of missing flights due to late arrival or incomplete paperwork,” said Parreño./PN
