Airport authorities and local airlines on Tuesday reminded air travelers not to bring banned items to the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) for faster processing and to prevent long lines at the screening checkpoints during the Holy Week break.
The Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) urged passengers to personally pack their bags and ensure that it does not contain any prohibited items like guns, bullets to avoid unnecessary delays at the screening checkpoint.
Sharp objects and other items such as baseball bats, baton sticks, tennis and badminton rackets, or billiard sticks are also prohibited in carry-on luggage, and can only be transported as checked in baggage.
The MIIAA will conduct intensive security screening and passenger assistance operations in order to ensure secure, reliable, convenient, and uninterrupted operations at the airport.
Coordination has also been made with airlines regarding the efficient processing of their passengers, especially at the check-in counters. Additional airline personnel will be deployed as needed to accommodate the increase in travelers.
Local airlines advised passengers to leave home early and allot more time for travel to the airport during the peak period.
“Passengers must be at the NAIA Terminal 3 and 4 at least three hours before departure for domestic flights, and four hours for international flights. Passengers traveling to Dubai are allowed to check in as early as seven hours before departure,” the Cebu Pacific Air (CEB) management stated.
AirAsia Philippines, meanwhile, expressed its full readiness in accommodating and safely flying its guests, who are expected to visit various provinces for their pilgrimage activities.
To ensure a smooth operation during the Holy Week and the upcoming summer holiday, AirAsia has beefed up its manpower, hiring additional mechanics and ground staff, which will ensure faster aircraft turnaround and positive on-time performance.
Self-check-in kiosks also provide faster alternatives for guests departing at the NAIA Terminals 2 and 3.
“We would like to assure that everyone will be able to fly safely and conveniently during the holidays as we also understand the importance of Holy Week to most of us. On top of the current manpower, we also have staff on standby who can be tapped to help during peak hours,” said AirAsia Head of Communications and Public Affairs Chief Steve Dailisan.