NAIA prepares for 1.3M booked flights for Holy Week despite price hike

There were over a million booked flights expected to depart from the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) for this year’s Holy Week exodus.

In Jonathan Andal’s report in “24 Oras” on Monday, Richelle Tanjay sought help after she was offloaded by an immigration officer, causing her to miss her flight to Hong Kong. She spent P40,000 for what was supposed to be her first international trip.

“I won’t be a TNT there. I’m from the province and I just wanted to experience international travel,” she shared.

Richelle was supposed to go on a solo trip abroad. She has her return ticket, hotel bookings, pay slip, bank statement, and cash prepared.

But the immigration officer asked for the affidavit of the person who would sponsor her trip, as well the passport and a document that would prove her relationship with the person.

“I was told that I should know someone there. But I said that I’m self-sponsored. I can no longer explain further because I can only give one answer per question,” Richelle lamented.

She tried to bring her case to the Bureau of Immigration’s satellite office in the airport. However, she was referred to the central office in Intramuros, Manila.

Meanwhile, the Olaso family was supposed to go together to Palawan. But they were recently advised to go in batches.

"It would have been fine if they were used to flying, but it’s the first time for the five of them — and they’re the ones going ahead,” said France Olaso.

“That's why we’re sacrificing and sleeping here instead, because there's no one else to look after them. This is becoming the second problem: since they’re the ones arriving first, where are they going to stay?” he added.

Passengers have been flocking to NAIA since Saturday.

The Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) said the average daily number of passengers has significantly increased compared to the same period of time last year.

Further, the number of passengers with confirmed bookings for the entire Holy Week this year is certain to reach 1.3 million, despite the prevailing State of National Energy Emergency.

“Of course, we’re a bit hesitant because of the situation, but with God’s help, we know we won't be forsaken,” said Retsel, who is bound for Spain for a pilgrimage. 

The MIAA said some passengers booked their flights a day before their trip.

“Some passengers only bought their tickets the day before. So, it means they haven't fully felt the impact of the price hike yet,” said MIAA General Manager Eric Ines.

Some are also taking advantage of the situation while the cost of fuel surcharges on flights, which are separate from the actual airfare, has not yet increased.

The fuel surcharges will be raised to Level 8 from April 1 to 15, reaching over P6,000 for international flights. But there is a possibility the price hike could be higher.

“We might reach Level 15. We can’t say for sure. But it’s possible because the price of jet fuel continues to rise. That surcharge, just to clarify, is not part of the base fare,” said Ines. 

The Philippine Airlines and Cebu Pacific earlier assured that they have enough jet fuel to accommodate flights in the next three months. — Vince Angelo Ferreras/BAP, GMA News