Passenger traffic, flights soar at Clark airport in 2024
CLARK FREEPORT, Philippines – Clark International Airport (CRK) has recorded substantial gains in passenger traffic and flight operations in 2024, indicating a robust recovery for Central Luzon’s aviation hub, according to the Luzon International Premiere Airport Development (LIPAD).
Passenger traffic surged by 20%, reaching 2.4 million travelers. Of this, 35% were domestic passengers, while 65% flew on international routes. Flight operations also grew by 29%, totaling 19,221 flights – 47% domestic and 53% international.
The sharpest growth came from domestic travel, with passenger numbers jumping 32% and flights increasing by 56%. International passenger traffic rose by 15%, while flights on international routes saw a 12% uptick, LIPAD reported.
Noel Manankil, LIPAD chief executive officer, said the gains were a result of dedication and commitment to providing service to passengers while maintaining a close partnership with government stakeholders to ensure regional growth and connectivity.
CRK spans 110,000 square meters with four floors and 18 bridges. It was completed in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic global emergency. The airport can cater up to eight million passengers annually.
LIPAD communications head Teri Flores on Tuesday, January 6, said the growth was driven by the launch of Cebu Pacific Group and Sunlight Air hubs, connecting Clark to domestic destinations like Bohol, Davao, Siargao, Puerto Princesa, Iloilo, and General Santos. She said Philippine Airlines (PAL) resumed its CRK-Basco route in 2024.
Flores attributed the international passenger growth to increased capacity from foreign airlines already operating in Clark, as well as the resumption of Jetstar CRK-Singapore.
CRK was awarded International Airport of the Year-Philippines at the 2024 Travel Daily Media (TDM) Travel Trade Excellence Awards-Asia, recognizing its exceptional passenger services and transformative impact on the aviation industry.
The airport’s innovative initiatives, including the implementation of minimum performance specifications and standards, have set new benchmarks for quality and operational efficiency.
Regular audits by Airports Council International (ACI), along with passenger feedback systems, ensure CRK consistently meets global standards and enhances the travel experience.
Looking ahead, Flores said that CRK’s strategy for 2025 focuses on strengthening airline relations and collaborating with the regional tourism office to promote Central Luzon as a tourism hub.
Improving passenger experience, expanding facilities, and adding new destinations will also be key to achieve continued growth in 2025, Flores said.
“New city links and additional capacity for existing destinations will help us achieve our target for the year,” he said. – Rappler.com