The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) is now on heightened alert in anticipation of the expected increase in volume of air passengers during the Christmas and New Year season.

Under the Department of Transportation’s (DOTr) “Oplan Biyaheng Ayos: Implementation of Heightened Alert Status during the Pasko 2020,” which runs from Dec. 16, 2020 to January 5, 2021, more security measures and deployment of service and security personnel are now being observed in all 12 area centers handling CAAP airports.

These airports handle commercial flights and ensure safe, reliable, and convenient airport operations as returning overseas Filipinos (ROFs), civilians, and tourists travel for the holiday season.

Concerned government agencies operating at the airports, including the Office of Transportation Security (OTS) and the Philippine National Police Aviation Security Group (PNP-AVSEGROUP), will also deploy personnel at areas of concern to ensure smooth passenger flow while strictly implementing minimum health protocols.

These include the mandatory wearing of face mask and face shield, social distancing, temperature checks, provision of foot baths, hand sanitizing stations, and routine disinfection and inspection of airport facilities.

CAAP is urging passengers to be ready to present valid health forms and LGU requirements to avoid inconvenience upon entry at the airport passenger terminal. Passengers are also reminded to download the Traze app ahead of their arrival at the airport for faster scanning of QR codes in entry/exit points and designated areas.

Additionally, travelers are also reminded not to bring prohibited items to the airport and to stow all belongings in one’s carry-on baggage for faster processing at the screening checkpoints.

The CAAP has regularly prepared for the increase in passenger influx during the holiday season. From December 1-31 last year, CAAP airports welcomed 2.5 million domestic and international passengers and a total of 29.2 million passengers for 2019.