Clark Airport Upbeat on Domestic Growth Despite Middle East Disruptions

The Clark International Airport is banking on a surge in domestic traffic to sustain its growth momentum this year, even as flight cancellations linked to the conflict in the Middle East have trimmed its international passenger numbers, the airport's top official said.

Noel Manankil, president and chief executive officer of LIPAD Corporation, the private operator of Clark International Airport (CRK), emphasised that the gradual transfer of turboprop flights from Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) to CRK has provided a domestic buffer against the disruptions.

“Although we have a couple of airline partners that fly directly to the Middle East and were temporarily affected by the disruption, on the domestic side, we are looking at positive growth brought by these turboprop transfers,” Manankil told Gulf Times in an exclusive interview.

Manankil explained that the transfers were carried out in response to a resolution by the Department of Transportation's (DoTr) Manila Slot Co-ordination Committee, issued on July 29, 2025, directing the gradual phase-out of turboprop aircraft operations from NAIA and their relocation to CRK.

According to Manankil, the final phase of the directive was completed on March 29, 2025.

On the international side, Manankil pointed out that LIPAD has been stepping up engagement with airline operators to expand services at CRK or establish hub operations at the airport.

“Notwithstanding potential air travel disruptions, LIPAD consistently engages with airline operators to encourage them to expand their operations or even set up a hub in CRK to further strengthen our airport operations,” Manankil stressed.

Manankil noted that the company recently concluded a week-long participation at Routes Asia 2026 in China, where LIPAD presented CRK's business case to a number of airline operators.

Earlier this year, Manankil said LIPAD also mounted a roadshow in India, together with local stakeholders, to position Clark as a complete tourist destination.

LIPAD's longer-term ambitions extend beyond terminal operations, noted Manankil, who also said the company has drawn up a masterplan to develop an entire aviation ecosystem around the airport, incorporating logistics, commercial, business, and residential hubs.

“We aim for these developments within the airport city to support the global operations of these industry giants,” he said.

To support the Clark Freeport's tourism credentials, Manankil said LIPAD has also committed to maintaining consistent dialogue with both local and foreign airlines, pursuing aggressive marketing strategies, and expanding land connectivity while awaiting the completion of the North-South Commuter Railway (NSCR).

Asked how LIPAD can lead the “system reset” for Philippine aviation to ensure CRK stays ahead of the curve as a preferred entry point for international visitors, Manankil said: “...on being a logistics hub, the LIPAD airport city is envisioned to complement the Clark Freeport as a full tourism destination.”

Manankil added: “LIPAD commits to support the efforts of the Clark Development Corporation (CDC) as the main driver of Clark as a destination with consistent dialogues with airlines, both local and foreign; aggressive marketing strategies, including expanding land connectivity as we wait for the completion of the NSCR and offering creative airline hub operations packages; ensuring that passenger experience is hassle-free by ensuring seamless airport processes, a well-built and beautifully maintained passenger terminal and a great customer experience.”