San Miguel Aerocity Inc. (SMAI) announced the official groundbreaking ceremony for the New Manila International Airport (NMIA) in Bulakan, Bulacan, scheduled for January 2026. This monumental undertaking marks the definitive start of construction on the Philippines’ largest and most advanced aviation hub, positioning the nation for dramatic expansion in air travel capacity and significantly addressing the long-standing issue of congestion at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA).
Developed under a robust ₱735-billion, 50-year Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) agreement, NMIA is designed as a long-term solution to the country’s infrastructure needs. Located approximately 35 kilometers north of Metro Manila, the massive 2,500-hectare site will ultimately feature four parallel runways and a state-of-the-art 350,000-sqm terminal complex boasting five wings and 240 boarding gates.
Phase 1 of the project is targeted for completion by November 2028, initially providing capacity to serve 35 million passengers annually (MPPA). Subsequent phases will rapidly expand the facility’s capability, with ultimate plans aiming for an unprecedented 100 M PPA.
Beyond its airside capacity, NMIA is strategically engineered for unparalleled connectivity. The new airport will provide direct access points to major road networks, including the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX), integration with the planned MRT-7 extension, and the NALEX link to Skyway Stage 3. This comprehensive transport integration ensures seamless travel for passengers and efficient logistics for cargo operations.
“The January 2026 groundbreaking is more than just a ceremony; it is the physical manifestation of our commitment to national progress,” said a spokesperson for SMAI. “Despite previous logistical and global supply chain challenges that led to necessary adjustments in cost and timeline, our vision for a world-class gateway remains focused. NMIA will not only decongest NAIA but will serve as a powerful economic catalyst, generating jobs, boosting tourism, and solidifying the Philippines’ status as a regional aviation powerhouse.”
The New Manila International Airport promises to redefine the travel experience and serve as the primary international gateway for the Philippines for the next half-century.
