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New Mactan Airport Runway Set to Enhance Central Visayas Tourism


Cebu: The Department of Tourism (DOT) celebrated the inauguration of a parallel runway at Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA), expected to advance tourism and aviation in Central Visayas.



According to Philippines News Agency, DOT Secretary Christina Frasco emphasized that the new runway would reinforce Cebu’s status as a leading tourist destination, solidifying its role as a key gateway to Visayas and Mindanao. This development aims to boost tourism in Central Visayas by increasing accessibility for both international and domestic travelers.



The new runway is designed to improve aviation safety, accommodate larger aircraft, and enhance operational efficiency at MCIA. The additional space for takeoffs and landings will decrease the risk of accidents, particularly during challenging weather conditions.



Frasco highlighted this as a significant achievement for Philippine tourism, noting the elevation of tourism infrastructure under the Marcos administration. The ability to increase flight frequencies and passenger capacity up to 18 million at MCIA benefits stakeholders in aviation and tourism, while enhancing access to island destinations in Cebu, Visayas, and Mindanao. This growth is anticipated to strengthen the local economy, encourage cultural exchange, and foster global connectivity.



Inaugurated by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., the new runway will support Cebu’s expanding tourism sector, notably in dive tourism and the meetings, incentives, conventions, and exhibitions sector. It is expected to aid in hosting significant tourism events like the Sinulog Festival, which draws millions of visitors each year.



According to the Department of Transportation, the new runway will notably improve air traffic efficiency, increasing the airport’s aircraft movement capacity from 30 to 40 per hour. The alternating use of the two runways will also minimize wear and tear.



In 2024, MCIA welcomed 11.3 million passengers, marking a 13-percent rise from the previous year. The airport’s international acclaim was further established when it was awarded Asia’s Best Airport in the Under 5 Million Passengers category at the Routes Asia 2023 awards in Chiang Mai, Thailand.