Philippine’s Manila’s Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) to Relocate Turboprop Operations Due to Congestion

Turboprop flights, typically serving smaller cities and island destinations, have contributed significantly to the air traffic bottlenecks at NAIA. Domestic carriers such as Cebu Pacific, Philippine Airlines, and AirSWIFT frequently operate these short-haul flights using turboprops, which require slower ground operations and occupy critical runway slots that could be used for larger jets. By relocating turboprop operations to SPIA, NAIA aims to optimize its limited runway capacity for larger domestic and international jet aircraft.

Philippine’s NAIA, designed for a capacity of 31 million passengers but currently handling over 40 million annually, has long struggled with congestion. Turboprop flights, while essential for connecting remote areas, are less efficient for high-traffic hubs like NAIA. The transfer to SPIA, located 20 kilometers southwest of Manila, is expected to streamline operations by reducing delays and freeing up valuable slots for jets that can carry more passengers and operate longer routes.

Secretary Jaime Bautista of the Department of Transportation (DOTr) emphasized the importance of this relocation in addressing the unique challenges posed by turboprop operations. “Turboprop aircraft are vital for regional connectivity, but their slower turnaround times and smaller passenger capacity make them less suited for a high-traffic hub like NAIA. Moving them to SPIA allows us to maximize NAIA’s efficiency for larger aircraft while giving turboprops a dedicated space to operate more effectively,” he explained.

SPIA, a modern facility with plans for capacity expansion, is well-suited for turboprop operations. Its smaller size and dedicated focus on regional travel will allow airlines to maintain critical connections to smaller cities and islands while minimizing disruptions. However, the government acknowledges the potential challenges for passengers and is working to improve transportation links between Manila and Sangley Point, including enhanced ferry services and upgraded road networks to ensure accessibility.

This relocation underscores the Philippine government’s broader efforts to modernize its aviation infrastructure and address the growing demands of air travel. By prioritizing the efficient use of resources and optimizing airport operations, this initiative is expected to significantly improve the travel experience for both regional and international passengers. For those relying on turboprops to access remote destinations, SPIA’s focused operations promise a more seamless and efficient journey.