The DOTr said that since October 1, 2024, a hike in the landing and take-off fees imposed on airlines operating out of NAIA had started. Indeed, the increase is already implemented, but Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista clarified that it does not automatically mean increased ticket prices for passengers. According to him, it is up to the airlines whether they want to absorb part of the additional cost themselves or pass it on to consumers.
AirAsia Philippines admitted that such rate adjustment would harm air ticket prices due to these changes in dues and charges. Still, the airline’s Head of Communications and Public Affairs, Steve Dailisan, said the carrier was still assessing possible implications of a fee hike on its operations.
“While these adjustments present challenges, our guests can count on our brand promise of offering reasonable fares, so that everyone can fly.” Dailisan said in a statement.
According to Cebu Pacific, “We recognize that it is necessary to invest in the improvements in both hard and soft infrastructure and look forward to working closely with NNIC for the benefit of our passengers.”
Aside from the landing and take-off fees, the New NAIA Infrastructure Corporation, the private group now in charge of the airport, will also raise passenger service charges next year.
For departures bound for foreign destinations, the amount will increase from P550 to P950, while those going to local destinations will be charged P390 instead of the current P200.
According to General Manager Angelito Alvarez, this shows that airfare will not only be pegged on operational costs but also the revenue management policy of airlines. But again, the same airlines have to consider the impact on their pricing.
The fee hikes are part of a larger effort for modernization and privatization at NAIA while it looks to improve at the passenger and operational levels.
