Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista revealed in an interview on Teleradyo Serbisyo that the terminal fee at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) may witness a surge due to the privatization of its operations. Bautista acknowledged the possibility of a hike in fees by the San Miguel-led consortium, the winning bidder for NAIA’s operations, but emphasized that improvements in airport services must precede any fee adjustments.
“Posible, but not necessarily kasi kung magiging efficient yung operations nila eh baka hindi naman sila masyadong magtaas ng terminal fee,” said Bautista.
He highlighted that NAIA’s current terminal fee, set at P550 for international flights and P350 for domestic flights, is comparatively low in the Asian region. Bautista contrasted this with privately operated airports like Mactan-Cebu International Airport and Clark International Airport, where fees are higher but accompanied by improved facilities.
General Manager Eric Ines of the Manila International Airport Authority echoed expectations of fee hikes, noting that many charges have remained static for over two decades.
“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.
Amidst these discussions, several airlines expressed optimism about the privatization, anticipating infrastructure upgrades that will enhance passenger experience.
“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.
Air Asia Philippines Spokesperson Steve Dailisan shared similar sentiments, emphasizing the importance of improved facilities and convenience for passengers. However, he urged caution regarding potential fee adjustments, citing possible impacts on airline operations and passengers.
“It will also impact our cost sa operations namin…. Hopefully they will revisit para sa ganoon pwede naman siguro ma improve muna ang services,” said Dailisan.