By Ariel Fernandez
The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) extended the operating hours of the Bohol-Panglao International Airport (BPIA).
Bohol-Panglao International Airport (DOTr / FILE PHOTO / MANILA BULLETIN)
Starting September 1, BPIA’s schedule was extended from 12 hours (6 a.m. to 6 p.m.) to 16 hours (6 a.m. to 10 p.m.).
This was made possible through the installation, full calibration, testing and operationalization of several ground-based navigational equipments, such as distance measuring equipment (DME), localizer antenna, ground-based radio navigational aid, and instrument landing system (ILS). These equipment provide precise and systematic launching and landing of aircraft.
The much-needed ground-based system is seen to greatly aid flight operations by complementing the airport’s existing satellite-based navigation system, which has limited capacity at night and in the occurrence of weather disturbances.
With both navigation systems in operation, more flights can be accommodated at the country’s first “eco-airport.” The influx of additional flights is also expected to reduce airfares, providing additional travel options to the people and guests of Bohol province.
CAAP Director General Jim Sydiongco said the extended hours of operation of the BPIA were part of the airport’s continuing development towards a more efficient operation and optimum utilization of its facilities.
“The more flights we can accommodate, the more benefits we can offer to our air passengers. This has always been the focal guidance of Secretary Art Tugade – to enhance the connectivity, mobility, and comfort of the Filipino people,” Sydiongco said.
Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade expressed enthusiasm over the improvements at the BPIA, noting their forthcoming impact on the economy of Bohol.
“We do not just stop with building airports. We also continuously upgrade them to truly enhance the travel experience of Filipinos. The improvements we made here at BPIA will ultimately impact on regional economic growth and development. That is what our President meant when he told us to give Filipinos a comfortable life,” Tugade said.