Caap prepares for hike in air travelers

The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (Caap) said on Thursday that it would start implementing an operations plan next week in anticipation of an expected surge in the number of passengers headed for the provinces for Holy Week.

In a statement, Caap said that under its “Oplan Byaheng Ayos: Semana Santa 2019,” additional security measures would be enforced to ensure safe, reliable and convenient operations at all 44 commercial airports nationwide from April 8 to 25.

It noted that in April 2018, the country’s airports welcomed a total of over 5.5 million domestic and international passengers. Of this number, more than 3 million arrived or left through the Ninoy Aquino International Airport.

“Coordination has been made with airlines regarding the efficient processing of their passengers, especially at the check-in counters. Additional airline personnel will be deployed as needed to accommodate the increase in travelers,” Caap said.

No leave, no dayoff

The agency added that 12 area managers handling the 40 Caap-managed airports with commercial flights nationwide had also been advised to implement the maximum deployment of service and security personnel. This meant that a “no leave and dayoff” policy would be implemented for the duration of Oplan Byaheng Ayos.

Caap said it had also coordinated with the Office for Transport Security for baggage screenings and with the Philippine National Police’s Aviation Security Group for perimeter security and surveillance in airports.

It added that it had also ordered the setting up of help desks manned by duty officers to address passengers’ concerns.

At the same time, the Caap reminded travelers not to bring prohibited items to the airport to avoid being inconvenienced.