The new passenger terminal building of Clark International Airport (CRK) will create economic and business opportunities for Northern and Central Luzon.
Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista said the airport’s expanded passenger capacity will revive local businesses, increase tourism traffic, generate more jobs and bolster economic activity.
“So, take it from me when I say that this airport is critical to the rebound of our country’s air travel and tourism industries. The leap in passenger capacity from 4.2 million to 8 million annually to be made possible by this new terminal also opens a way of opportunities for Northern and Central Luzon,” Bautista stated during the Grand Opening of the new CRK terminal which was led by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
He added that the continuous modernization of CRK showcases the transformation in the country’s transport system resulting in a better air travel experience for customers.
“This aesthetically designed passenger terminal will dramatically enhance the quality of passenger experience, providing comfort and convenience with a distinct Filipino touch,” the cabinet official added.
Bautista emphasized that CRK is more than just an alternative terminal to Ninoy Aquino International Airport rather, a key component in the completion of the national transport roadmap.
He also recognized Luzon International Premiere Airport Development (LIPAD) Corporation, Clark International Airport Corporation (CIAC) and Bases Conversion and Development Authority as effective partners in improving passenger connectivity and mobility.
For his part, LIPAD Chairperson Frederick Go explained that the 110,000 square meter, four level mega project was envisioned to be the airport of choice for travelers flying in and out of the Philippines.
“As a destination, we want visitors to the Philippines to have a fantastic first impression as soon as they arrive in the country. And in turn, we will provide customers with a seamless and hassle-free experience by offering modern facilities and amenities,” Go said.
It utilizes contactless features including common-use self-service kiosks and self-service bag drops.
The new terminal’s look took inspiration from the surrounding landscapes including the vast mountain ranges of Zambales and Mount Arayat in Pampanga.
Its color palette incorporated muted greens and blues with soft grays and maroons mimicking river beds, caves and bodies of water such as the crater lake of Mount Pinatubo.
Inauguration of the new terminal, according to Go, showed that the Philippines is open for business and network expansion.
“Our goal is to continue working towards expanding our network—connecting Clark to more domestic and international points. This airport will re-define air travel experience and further push economic developments in the region. It will be Northern and Central Luzon’s gateway connecting the region to the rest of the Philippines and the world,” he noted.
The building of the new terminal features two components.
One involves construction of the horizontal or airside infrastructure, composed of a new apron and extension of taxiways, which was undertaken by Department of Transportation through CIAC.
The other is on the construction of the vertical or landside infrastructure covering the new 110,000 square meter passenger terminal, a secondary access road, parking facilities, and a transport terminal hub.
This was handled by BCDA through awarding of pertinent contracts for shell of the terminal building and facilities; and Operations and Maintenance Contract for approximately 810 hectares of the Clark Civil Aviation Complex and for the fit-out requirement of the new passenger terminal building.
Another phase of the fit outs begins in 2023. (CLJD/TJBM-PIA 3)