Iloilo International Airport is prepared to accommodate international flights, according to the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) Western Visayas acting Area Manager Eusebio Monserate, Jr.
During the second episode of “Kapihan sa Bagong Pilipinas,” Monserate announced the airport’s readiness, but noted the absence of proposals from airline companies for direct international flights.
Monserate clarified that while CAAP operates the terminal, the decision to launch international flights lies with the airlines.
“Our airport is ready to accept international flights, but we haven’t received any proposals from airline companies (yet),” he said.
Monserate assured that CAAP Western Visayas is prepared for the return of international flights, with appropriate scheduling plans in place to manage arrivals and departures efficiently and avoid congestion.
He explained that international flights are scheduled to arrive at night when there are no domestic flights, as international passengers require special lanes for Customs, Immigration, and Quarantine (CIQ) inspections.
“We schedule international arrivals during times when there are no domestic flights because international passengers need special lanes for CIQ,” Monserate added.
Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas has emphasized the importance of resuming international flights for the economy of Iloilo City and the province, particularly for the tourism sector.
The return of direct international flights from Iloilo to destinations like Hong Kong and Singapore is expected to ease travel for passengers.
Currently, Iloilo Airport handles 70 flights daily, with 35 arrivals and 35 departures.
Iloilo International Airport serves a significant number of passengers from Iloilo City, Iloilo Province, and Guimaras.
The airport’s strategic location makes it an accessible and convenient point of departure and arrival for people in Iloilo City, the broader Iloilo Province, and the nearby island province of Guimaras.