BCDA, CAAP partner to boost air traffic management at Clark airport
By Marie Joy S. Carbungco
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 will fund the procurement of parts and maintenance of ancillary equipment, while CAAP will oversee the operation and upkeep of the facilities to ensure safe and efficient air traffic management.
“CAAP’s expertise and national mandate make them the ideal partner for this critical phase of CRK’s development,” said BCDA President and CEO Joshua Bingcang.
CAAP Director General Raul Del Rosario also emphasized the importance of maintaining CRK’s systems at the highest safety and efficiency standards.
The partnership comes as CRK experiences a surge in operations, with a 29 percent increase in flights recorded in 2024 — 47 percent domestic and 53 percent international.
BCDA Chairperson Hilario Paredes noted that the growth of e-commerce and logistics has fueled demand for aviation services at Clark, with more logistics companies choosing CRK as a hub due to its strategic location.
He said the agreement would boost CRK’s role as a major gateway for passenger, tourism, and cargo growth in Central and Northern Luzon.
Beyond the air traffic system upgrades, BCDA is also spearheading airport expansion projects, including a second runway, as part of its efforts to support the sustainable development of the Clark Freeport and Special Economic Zone.
The partnership 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 with the Luzon International Premiere Airport Development Corporation in 2019 for CRK’s passenger terminals, but ATS and CNS operations remain under government management for effective oversight. # (CLJD/MJSC, PIA Region 3-Pampanga)