Local airlines have shown complete support for the New NAIA Infrastructure Corp's (NNIC) long-term vision, which includes proposed terminal re-assignments.
Cebu Pacific Air (CEB) and AirAsia Philippines have expressed their solidarity with the planned terminal reassignments of airlines.
Under the plan, Terminal 1 will be reserved for exclusive use by flag carrier Philippine Airlines (PAL), while Terminal 2 will be reserved for domestic flights served by PAL and CEB.
Terminal 3 will be used by all international airlines landing at NAIA, while Terminal 4 (Old Domestic Airport) will be exclusive for AirAisa Philippines.
"We share a vision with the New NAIA Infrastructure Corporation - one that goes beyond simply moving people from one destination to another. Our ultimate goal is to elevate customer journeys, putting guests’ comfort and convenience at the heart of what we do," AirAsia Philippines said in a statement on Tuesday, September 10.
"As we await further thorough consultation with NNIC and other airport stakeholders on the plans to be implemented at the airport, we advise our guests to follow the current terminal assignments as listed on their travel itineraries," AirAsia Philippines said.
The airline added that the planned transfer of their operations does not have an exact date yet.
At present, AirAsia Philippines operates all domestic flights via NAIA Terminal 2 and Terminal 3 for international.
Cebu Pacific, meanwhile said, "To ensure a seamless transition with mijimal disruption to passengers, a thorough consultative process and sufficient preparation time are essential for every terminal transfer."
The CEB added that it is vital that all necessary operational support and systems are in place before any terminal changes are implemented.
The Gokongwei-led airline said that in Singapore, they spent a year of discussion and coordination with both parties before they moved to Changi Airport Terminal 4 from the low-cost carrier terminal.
"This highlights the importance of thorough planning and teamwork during these transitions," the budget carrier said.
The most important thing, Cebu Pacific said, is to minimize inconvenience for passengers, particularly during high traffic times such as Christmas, the busiest season.
Just last year, the local airlines underwent Terminal reassignment as part of the Manila International Airport Authority Schedule and Terminal Assignment Regulation program.
"Dubbed as the "winning move," the transfer of our domestic operations from NAIA Terminal 4 to Terminal 2 significantly addressed passenger concerns, allowing a better customer experience. AirAsia also optimized its taxiway and runway utilization benefiting all other airport stakeholders," AirAsia said.
The two local airlines explained that transferring terminals requires thorough planning, which includes conducting time and motion studies, taking environmental factors into account, and allowing sufficient time for implementation to avoid disruptions, especially since the peak season is approaching.
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