Foreign businessmen are calling for the creation of a Philippine Airports Authority (PAA) to take over airport operations and development in the country, removing the task away from the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP).
Policy brief of Arangkada Philippines
In a policy brief “Philippine Air Transport Infrastructure: A Policy Brief Update,” Arangkada Philippines, the advocacy arm of the Joint Foreign Chambers (JFC), said the creation of the PAA will streamline the operation of the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) to focus solely on regulatory oversight.
“Such a division is crucial for streamlining operations, enhancing safety, and ensuring that Philippine airports meet global standards,” the brief stated.
The brief further said the streamlined operation will enhance both safety and efficiency of airport operations.
The creation of a PAA is just one of three legislative proposals by Arangkada targeting the structural barriers that limit Philippine air transport efficiency and competitiveness.
The second proposal is the creation of an independent Philippine Transportation Safety Board (PTSB) to conduct objective investigations into aviation incidents for better accountability and transparency.
Third, the JFC cited the need to modernize the Civil Aeronautics Act of 1952 to position the Civil Aeronautics Board as an independent economic regulator, prioritizing consumer protection in an increasingly globalized air travel market.
Highlighting progress in the sector’s recovery, the brief notes that Philippine air transport has now achieved 89% of its pre-pandemic gross value-added, with increased domestic travel and expanded international routes boosting connectivity.
The brief also cited how Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs), including projects to expand Ninoy Aquino International Airport’s capacity and modernize several regional airports, are critical to these efforts, bringing facilities to international standards and supporting seamless travel.
It noted that digitalization initiatives such as e-gates and self-service kiosks further improve passenger experience and operational efficiency, while expanded air cargo systems enhance economic impact across logistics, real estate, and exports.
While recent developments have shown great improvement in Philippine air transport, the brief said that achieving a higher standard that can consistently support and sustain economic growth demands not only infrastructure upgrades, but also bold reforms to the governance of air transport.
