CAAP implements Oplan Undas at airports

The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines has started the implementation of "Oplan Undas 2017" in anticipation of the influx of air passengers for the approaching All Saints Day and All Souls Days.

In a statement on Saturday, the CAAP said its Oplan Undas on Friday was in line with Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade's order to all transportation agencies to stay on heightened alert to ensure the safety and security of passengers for the holidays. 

"Under the said operation plan, added measures will be in place to ensure safe, reliable, and convenient operations at all 39 commercial airports in the country in the next two weeks," the CAAP said.

Coordination has been made with airlines regarding the efficient processing of their passengers especially at the check-in counters, it added.

Additional airline personnel will be deployed as needed to accommodate the increase in travelers.

"Check-in counters are opened two hours before departure of a domestic flight while three  hours prior for an international flight. Counters close 45 minutes before departure," the CAAP said.

The air transport agency took note that maximum deployment of service and security personnel will be observed and will keep a “no leave” policy during the entire duration of "Oplan Undas."

"Help desks manned by duty officers will also be set-up to accommodate passenger concerns," the CAAP said.

It also reminded passengers 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.

“At the spirit of Oplan Undas is the passenger. We want to make sure that traveling will be as hassle-free as possible as we observe the solemnity of the occasion,” CAAP Director General Capt. Jim Sysiongco said. —John Ted Cordero/LBG, GMA News