THE EXPANSION of the Passenger Terminal Building (PTB) at Davao International Airport (DIA) recorded a 27.89 percent completion as of Jan. 8, the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development–Davao Region (DepDev-Davao) reported Monday.
DepDev-Davao regional director Priscilla R. Sonido said the expansion of the PTB is for the convenience of the passengers.
Costing approximately ₱650 million, the project significantly expands the PTB’s floor area by 48 percent.
This is an upgrade from its previous 17,500 square meters to 25,910 square meters.
By the time of its expected completion in December 2026, it will accommodate an additional 700 passengers, bringing its seating capacity to 1,500.
Arturo Milan, chairman of the Infrastructure Development Committee of RDC XI, in an earlier interview, said the project is expected to positively impact tourism in the region and in Mindanao, with Davao airport as one of the gateways.
At present, DIA has a capacity of around three million passengers annually.
The expansion will have a new wing with a separate cargo-handling system and carousel since international inbound passengers claim their baggage in the domestic area. The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) Davao continues to upgrade airport amenities to add comfort to the travelers.
CAAP, in coordination with the Department of Transportation, recently completed the installation of three high-capacity chillers at the terminal’s arrival area. Passengers can now enjoy a more comfortable experience following the installation.