Good News: Baguio’s Loakan Airport Is Getting an Upgrade

The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) has unveiled an ambitious plan to revamp the historic Loakan Airport.

As part of the expansion project, the Loakan Airport’s terminal building will be increased from 650 to 859 square meters to accommodate 85 to 141 passengers comfortably. This overhaul will also introduce additional check-in counters and optimize passenger flow, promising an enhanced and efficient travel experience. Moreover, this airport in Baguio will feature expanded facilities dedicated to lactating and prayer rooms, underscoring the airport's commitment to passenger convenience. Solar panels will be installed to support eco-friendly operations at the terminal as a nod to sustainability.

Loakan Airport is designated as a Class 2 or minor domestic airport. Currently, the airport exclusively operates the Philippine Airlines (PAL) Cebu-Baguio route. Nevertheless, due to financial limitations, PAL has announced the termination of this route by the end of June 2024. PAL introduced the Cebu-Baguio flights on December 16, 2022.

The Department of Transportation (DOTr) is scouting for a new location to construct a larger Baguio airport within the city or its vicinity. Finding suitable, flat terrain for the new airport has proven to be quite challenging. As a result, the Department is considering investing efforts into enhancing and improving the current Loakan Airport to meet the increasing demands for air travel.

Loakan Airport was reopened for commercial flights in December 2022 to revitalize tourism and bolster the local economy. In December 2023, the DOTr initiated a P45-million rehabilitation project for the airport. The rehabilitation primarily focuses on repairing the perimeter fence and constructing a new main gate to enhance the airport's infrastructure.

Visit Yoorekka to learn more about travel news and guides in the top tourist destinations in the Philippines!