Runway repair smooth so far
The ongoing work on the runway of the MactanCebu International Airport (MCIA) failed to disrupt airport operations, according to an official.
GMR Megawide Cebu Airport Corp. (GMCAC) Corporate Communications Junior Manager Avigael Maningo said no major interruptions were noted on the fourth day of the runway repair yesterday.
The repair began last Saturday.
The 2.3-kilometer runway has been closed for five hours, from 1:30 a.m. to 6:30 a.m., since September 1 to make way for the asphalt overlay project, which is set to finish on September 21.
To ease the impact of repair on passengers, airlines had to adjust some of their flights.
“The airlines have diligently informed their passengers of the flight schedule adjustments,” Maningo said.
Maningo added that check-in counters at the Terminal 2 will open as early as 7 p.m. for international flights.
“In Terminal 2, all of the airlines open their check-in counters as early as 7 p.m. for international flights so the flights can depart before the scheduled runway closure,” she said.
Passengers are advised to be present at the airport five hours earlier for international flights, and at least four hours for domestic flights.
GMCAC President Louie Ferrer earlier said the resurfacing of the main runway is already long overdue.
It was in 2006 when the runway was last rehabilitated.
To finish on schedule or ahead of time, MCIAA Public Affairs Division Mary Ann Dimabayao said, at least two contractors were tapped for the project.
After the repair, airport officials are expecting for “a smooth and a much safer runway.”
Earlier this year, MCIA resurfaced at least 300 meters of the touchdown runway.
MCIA is the second busiest airport in the Philippines, next to Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Pasay City, Metro Manila. —
Christell Fatima M. Tudtud/KBQ