Bicol International Airport expected to start operations on Oct 7th

The Department of Transportation (DOTr) announced on Friday that the Bicol International Airport is now 90% complete and is expected to start day operations on Oct 7th.

“With non-stop construction ongoing, the Bicol International Airport will be technically operational for commercial aircraft for day operations by 07 October 2021 and will be night-rated by 04 November 2021,” said the DOTr.

Meanwhile, Transportation Secretary Arthur P. Tugade expressed confidence that the airport project will be completed by September.   

 “To safely operate the airport, the Department of Transportation and CAAP will continue to be steadfast in pushing for the finalization of (the) necessary activities, not only to support the administration’s Build, Build, Build program, but also to achieve our goal of providing a safer and more comfortable travel experience to Filipinos,” said Jim C. Sydiongco, Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) Director-General.

Mr. Tugade also led the inspection of the airport on Friday.  

“Among the facilities inspected were the gateway’s runway lights, arrival area, check-in counters, and pre-departure area,” said the DOTr.

The airport sits in the shadow of Mayon Volcano; officials hope it can act as a scenic gateway to the region. 

“The Bicol International Airport is expected to accommodate a total of 2 million passengers per year once it is fully operational,” said the DOTr.

SOURCE: Business World