Following Ninoy Aquino International Airport’s shift to private management, passengers might see a rise in the terminal fee. Additional costs like those for aeronautical services and space rental could also increase, potentially leading to pricier plane tickets.
In a Teleradyo Serbisyo chat, Transportation Chief Jaime Bautista acknowledged that the San Miguel-headed group, having secured the NAIA management deal, might up the terminal charge. However, he pointed out that the consortium is obliged to enhance the airport facilities first.
“Posible, but not necessarily kasi kung magiging efficient yung operations nila eh baka hindi naman sila masyadong magtaas ng terminal fee,” said Bautista.
The head of Transportation swiftly noted that the terminal fee of NAIA is one of Asia’s lowest, at P550 for overseas journeys and P350 for local ones. He contrasted this to Mactan-Cebu and Clark International Airports, both under private management.
“Ang Cebu mas mataas pa kay sa Maynila, P750 pero makita mo naman maayos yung operations nila. Ang Clark almost P750 na rin, pero dahil magaganda yung mga facilities na ginawa. These are now operated by the private sector,” said Bautista.
NAIA terminal fee increase possible with privatization
Eric Ines, the General Manager of the Manila International Airport Authority, previously stated that the organization anticipates an increase in assorted fees at the airport, noting that these charges have not been altered for more than twenty years.
“Definitely we can expect some [increases] in terms of rentals, navigation charges, all of it. Really it has been a long time- 24 years. The last time was April 2000,” said Ines.
Certain carriers, in the meantime, are supportive of the idea to privatize the management of NAIA.
“We look forward to sustainable infrastructure improvements aimed at expanding NAIA’s capacity, which will benefit the traveling public through both increased passenger efficiency and convenience,” said Cebu Pacific President Xander Lao.
Steve Dailisan, representing Air Asia Philippines, expresses his contentment with the soon-to-commence enhancements at the airport.
Dailisan expressed his desire that the terminal fee and other costs at the airport remain stable for now, recognizing that significant changes could affect both airlines and travelers.
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