Airlines seek CAB approval for terminal enhancement fees amid NAIA cost hikes

At least three airlines have requested approval from the Civil Aeronautics Board (CAB) to charge a terminal enhancement fee following increases in fees at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), an agency official said Tuesday.

The CAB is set to meet with local carriers on Friday, October 18, to discuss these proposals amid rising costs at NAIA.

Discussions on raising takeoff and landing fees began in August, a month before the privatization of NAIA operations turned over to the New NAIA Infrastructure Corp. (NNIC) on September 14.

The terminal enhancement fee covers tacking fees, airport procedures, and handling passengers, with costs ranging less than PHP1,000 depending on flight distance.

CAB Deputy Executive Director Maria Elben Moro assured that the CAB will review these proposals after conducting public hearings and seeking comments from consumer groups, airlines, and NNIC.

Airline Operators Council chairperson Allan Nepomuceno said the rate for landing and takeoff fees increased by about 200 to 220 percent since October 1, which was not included in the airlines' budget for 2024.

Airlines are also considering fare increases in the hundreds of pesos to recover expenses due to the recent fee hikes implemented since October 1.