Test operation for new Iloilo airport set
The ongoing works at the new Iloilo Airport in
Cabatuan-Sta. Barbara, taken Sept. 29, 2006
Air Transportation Office (ATO) Manager Alan Java said the Iloilo airport of international standards in Sta. Barbara-Cabatuan is likely to go with its schedule for test operation on April 12, 2007 as the over-all physical accomplishment already posted to 87 percent.
Based on the report provided by the contractor to the ATO, the total work accomplishment for the civil works is already 92 percent. This includes airport construction, construction of runway and earthworks. The construction of access road and borrow pit is 92 percent, utility work 91 percent and electrical works 91 percent.
The budget for the new Iloilo airport of international standards reached to P6.187 billion. Of the total budget, P5.259 billion is a loan from Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC) and P928 million as counterpart of the Philippine government.
ATO foresees a decrease of local flights when the international airport becomes operational. Java said the decrease could be the result of the entry of big aircrafts. There are a number of local flights at the Iloilo airport since airline companies are flying airplanes with small seating capacity.
He cited that the Philippine Airlines (PAL) can already fly their Airbus 330 at the new international airport. It has a capacity of more than 300 passengers. It is also fuel efficient. Other airline companies are also acquiring bigger airplanes to compete.
Bigger and tougher competition among the airline companies are seen with the opening of the new international airport. Business activities will likewise flourish along the area, Java said.