NAIA Runway 1331 closed for repairs

Airport authorities have closed for repairs one of two major runways at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), triggering fears of operational headaches among airline companies using the transport facility, GMANews.TV learned Monday. The Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) closed Runway 1331, which had been in use for domestic and international flights. MIAA officials said the runway is due for an "upgrade." Elpidio Mendoza, MIAA assistant general manager for engineering, said it is necessary for Runway 1331 to be closed down in preparation for the opening of NAIA Terminal 3. Airline companies expressed fears that the repair work may result in delays of their flights. Capt. Hernani Locson, chief pilot, safety and compliance of Cebu Pacific Airways, said they have set up contingency measures in anticipation of potential service problems. "Because of only one runway is in use the airplanes would pile up on the runway that is being used and, since there are airplanes that are landing also, the airplanes will have to be spaced so that one can take off and the airplanes can also land," said Locson. The upgrading and rehabilitation of the runway is projected to cost around P331 million, said NAIA engineering officials. Mendoza expects the repairs to be completed before the rainy season starts. "All the airlines are cooperating in the efforts of ATO in trying to repair this runway because it will eventually the benefit the whole airline business including the passengers," said Locson.-GMANews.TV