The Mactan Cebu International Airport (MCIA) has been named as Asia Pacific Regional Airport of the Year by the Center for Asia Pacific Aviation (CAPA)-Center for Aviation in Singapore.
According to CAPA, MCIA “has been the biggest standout strategically, has established itself as a leader and has done the most to advance the progress of the aviation industry.”
Australia-based CAPA is tagged as “the leading provider of independent aviation market intelligence and other services worldwide.”
Candidates for the award were shortlisted by a team of analysts and by aviation partners from the executive search firm Heidrick and Struggles.
“We are thrilled by this recognition as it brings pride not just to our company but also to the Philippines. In the past, we have only been known for having the worst airports but through MCIA, we are changing that mindset,” said Louie Ferrer, president of GMR Megawide Cebu Airport Corp. (GMCAC).
GMCAC is the private operator and manager of the Mactan airport, the busiest airport in the Philippines outside Manila.
The award, according to GMCAC, is an addition to the airport’s other recognitions.
MCIA landed as 14th best airport in Asia according to The Guide to Sleeping in Airports’ website this year, an improvement from last year’s 18th place standing.
Andrew Harrison, GMCAC’s chief executive adviser, said he looks forward to further increasing MCIA’s connectivity, emphasizing that route development is essential to the airport’s success.
“We want to strengthen Cebu’s position as an international hub. We want to take advantage of market opportunities, and ensure continued dialogue with existing carriers while presenting business cases to potential airlines. We also regularly consult with stakeholders such as tourism authorities, and the travel and tourism sector,” said Harrison. —Philippine News Agency (PNA)
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