The Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) has long been a topic of travel woes, from overcrowded terminals to outdated facilities. But with its management now under the San Miguel-led New NAIA Infrastructure Corporation (NNIC), there&rsquo;s a sense of optimism for change. Since the handover last September, NNIC has already begun to roll out initiatives that aim to transform the country&rsquo;s main international gateway into a modern, efficient hub.
One of the first changes travelers might notice is the adjustment in fees. Overnight parking costs have surged, and VIP services are now much pricier. While these may sound steep, the changes have helped clear up parking spaces and curb misuse of VIP access. Meanwhile, aeronautical fees are also being revised, ensuring that airlines contribute to the airport's development.
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Renovation is another key focus. Terminal 4, NAIA&rsquo;s oldest terminal, is currently undergoing a much-needed facelift to improve safety, passenger flow, and overall efficiency. Expected to reopen in early 2025, the upgrade marks a significant step in addressing the terminal's reputation as one of Asia's least business-friendly airports.
Elsewhere, there&rsquo;s visible progress too. Terminal extensions, additional boarding bridges, and a new transport hub at Terminal 3 are already making an impact. A centralized ride-hailing hub now offers passengers better options, and expanded curbsides promise to reduce the bottlenecks that have long plagued arrivals and departures.
Behind the scenes, NNIC has partnered with big players like PLDT/Smart and Converge to enhance airport connectivity, extending free WiFi to three hours without the need for logins. With ongoing infrastructure and employee support initiatives, NAIA is slowly but surely shedding its old image. Change may not happen overnight, but for travelers passing through, the signs of progress are becoming harder to miss.