MIAA upgrades NAIA's Taxiway November for enhanced aircraft capacity
By Jel Santos

The Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) has started the upgrade of Taxiway November at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA).
"This crucial project aims to enhance the airport's capabilities, particularly in accommodating a diverse range of aircraft, with a focus on wide-body planes from international carriers operating at NAIA Terminal 3," the MIAA said in a statement.
Taxiway November, spanning 1,748 kilometers, serves as the inner taxiway of NAIA Terminal 3, catering to aircraft at Terminals 3 and 4, as well as General Aviation.
According to MIAA, the upgrade entails replacing the existing flexible pavement with stiff concrete, a step intended to reduce the need for regular repairs caused by asphalt deterioration.
Antonio Mendoza, MIAA assistant general manager for engineering, said the goal of the upgrade is to concrete all taxiways “because it is better suited for wide-body aircraft.”
“This will significantly reduce the need for pavement repairs, ensuring a continuous flow of flight operations and accommodating more flights at Terminal 3,” he noted.
The MIAA said the multi-phase project, starting with a 400-meter section, is set to conclude in 16 months, targeting completion by 2025.
“Phased work ensures continuous operations at NAIA Terminal 3,” it explained.
After the completion of the initial phase, MIAA said it will move forward with the expansion of Taxiway Juliet located in front of NAIA Terminal 2.
Subsequently, a project to enhance Taxiway Delta, the primary taxiway at NAIA Terminal 3, will be initiated.
MIAA Officer-in-Charge Bryan Co stressed that these improvements are the first in a sequence, with more planned following a geotechnical examination of NAIA's runways, taxiways, and aprons.
“The investigation will determine the Aircraft Classification Number and Pavement Classification Number, guiding our subsequent upgrades. This standardized international airport pavement rating system will also assist airlines in choosing suitable aircraft for NAIA,” he said.
“As the primary gateway for the country, it is our duty to continually upgrade and improve, ensuring that we remain at par with international standards for our pavements. Our engineering efforts contribute to our overarching goal of enhancing the passenger experience at NAIA.”