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New NAIA Infra Corp. is implementing new VIP service rates at Ninoy Aquino International Airport to “curb misuse of VIP courtesies extended at the airport”
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The meet and assist service fees soared to P8,000 per passenger from the previous P800
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Group rates also apply ranging from P50,000 to P140,000
Ten times higher VIP service rates are now in effect at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) to “curb misuse of VIP courtesies extended at the airport,” airport operator New NAIA Infra Corp. (NNIC) said in a statement.
The meet-and-assist service fees for passengers not classified as VIPs or important personalities (IPs) but seeking similar services such as international performers and other high-profile passengers have been jacked up to P8,000 per passenger. In the past the VIP privileges, which were intended for dignitaries and other important individuals, were easily accessible for P800.
The old rate allowed any passenger to “bypass regular airport procedures,” NNIC said, creating “potential security vulnerabilities” that “also led to operational inefficiencies and an unfair advantage for those who could afford to pay.”
The new NAIA operator added: “Our ultimate goal is to create a seamless and efficient airport experience where the need for VIP treatment, beyond what is necessary for dignitaries and those with critical functions, becomes unnecessary. We want every traveler to enjoy an effortless journey through NAIA, regardless of their status.”
Group VIP service fees are also in effect:
- P50,000 for up to nine passengers, coordinator access passes, and a vehicle pass
- P100,000 for 10-20 passengers, four coordinator access passes, and a vehicle pass
- P140,000 for 21-30 passengers, four coordinator passes, and a vehicle pass
VIP Lounge access is excluded from the packages, according to NNIC.
A package that provides for VIP lounge access, a vehicle pass, and assistance from Public Affairs Office personnel is priced at P4,032 and is limited to ten persons. For groups exceeding this number, an additional P201.60 will be charged per extra person.
Key changes in the new protocol include:
- VIP courtesies and accommodations will now be exclusively handled by NNIC’s VIP Assistance Personnel.
- Non-passengers will no longer be permitted to provide meet-and-greet services or accompany departing VIPs and important people (IP).
- VIP entourages will be limited to essential personnel to ensure efficient processing and reduce disruptions.
- Access/annual passes previously issued for facilitation purposes will be evaluated on a per-case basis, replacing the previous annual pass system.
NNIC said it will continue to provide secure and efficient travel service for VIPs and IPs, which include high-ranking officials, dignitaries, and foreign representatives.
Parking fees at NAIA were also raised starting October 1 after taking over the control of the country’s major airport on Sept. 14. NNIC cited the fee hikes as necessary to maintain the ongoing modernization of the airport.
