NAIA on track to reach record-high passengers

The Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) is on its way to surpassing its record number of passengers in a year, thanks to the booming travel demand and new routes from airlines.

- By ELIJAH FELICE ROSALES

Based on data from NAIA regulator Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA), the airport grew its passenger volume by 11 percent to 45.63 million between January and November 2024, from 41.2 million the previous year.

At this rate, NAIA is on track to turn in a new all-time high in passenger footprint, especially as December registers the highest number among all months.

NAIA saw its busiest year prior to the pandemic in 2019, when the gateway facilitated the flights of 47.9 million passengers. Since then, the airport, despite its flaws, has regained its footing as one of the busiest in Southeast Asia.