CLARK FREEPORT ZONE, Pampanga – The Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) and the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) partnered to boost the operations and maintenance of Clark International Airport’s (CRK) air traffic services (ATS); and communication, navigation, and surveillance (CNS) facilities.
Under the agreement, BCDA, as the owner of the facilities, will cover the costs for the procurement of parts and the maintenance of ancillary equipment.
CAAP, in turn, will manage and maintain these facilities, ensuring the safe and efficient management of air traffic in and out of CRK.
“CAAP’s deep-seated expertise in airport management, proven track record in ensuring the highest standards of safety and efficiency, and national mandate make them the ideal steward for this critical phase of CRK’s development,” BCDA President and CEO Joshua Bingcang said.
CAAP Director General Raul Del Rosario stressed the importance of the partnership in ensuring that [CRK’s] air traffic services, navigation system, and equipment are maintained and operated at the highest standard of safety and efficiency.
The collaboration comes as CRK experiences rising flight activity and growing demand for air logistics.
In 2024, flight operations at CRK increased by 29 percent, with a total of 19,221 flights recorded. Of these, 47 percent are domestic and 53 percent are international flights.
BCDA Chairperson Hilario Paredes noted that the expansion of e-commerce and logistics activities has also driven the demand for aviation and cargo services at Clark.
“To meet this demand, more and more logistics companies have chosen the CRK as their hub banking on its location in Central Luzon and its accessibility. With the continued surge in tourism and logistics demand, prioritizing aviation safety, convenience, and efficiency has become more crucial,” he said.
He said that the agreement between BCDA and CAAP is expected to further enhance the efficiency, safety, and reliability of CRK, reinforcing its role as a major gateway for passenger, tourism, and cargo growth in Central and Northern Luzon.
In addition to the air traffic system upgrades, BCDA is spearheading several expansion projects for the airport, including the planned construction of a second runway and other airport infrastructure improvements.
These initiatives are part of BCDA’s broader effort to support the sustainable growth of Clark Freeport and Special Economic Zone.
The memorandum of agreement supports BCDA’s commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) and Goal 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities).
BCDA had earlier signed a concession agreement in January 2019 with the Luzon International Premiere Airport Development Corporation for the operation and maintenance of CRK’s passenger terminals.
However, the ATS and CNS operations and maintenance remain under government management to ensure effective oversight and control of air traffic systems. (CLJD/MJSC, PIA Region 3-Pampanga)