Milestone: Bukidnon Airport On Track for 2025 Opening

By PMT Desk

Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines-Northern Mindanao Area Manager Engr. Job De Jesus presented an update on the status of Bukidnon Airport during the “Kapihan sa Bagong Pilipinas” forum on June 4. He said the airport is on track to open in 2025. (Photo by SAYU/PIA 10)

ILIGAN CITY –- If all go well, the Bukidnon Airport is to open next year as targeted.

Northern Mindanao Area Manager Job De Jesus of the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) said Bukidnon Airport in Maraymaray, Don Carlos town, is on track to open in 2025.

Engr. De Jesus gave the assurance during the “Kapihan sa Bagong Pilipinas” forum on June 4 as he highlighted the airport’s phased construction, which ensures meticulous planning and execution for each component.

“We’re targeting a 2025 opening for Bukidnon Airport,” De Jesus said, citing the progress made across various phases.

CAAP reports showed the airport can handle small turboprop aircraft next year and accommodate larger A320 jets by the third quarter of 2026.

It will benefit about 1.5 million residents of Bukidnon and nearby provinces by providing better access to air travel and boosting local tourism and business.

The P2.8 billion project, with an additional P320 million for ancillary facilities, completed its first phase, including the runway.

Phase 2 focused on essential infrastructure, completing the embankment and apron areas, which now meet all parking and flying aircraft standards.

“Phase 3, focused on aerodrome development and management services, is complete, but the control tower, power plants, and passenger terminal building are still under construction,” De Jesus explained.

The passenger terminal building (PTB), designed for nearly 500 passengers and spanning 3,600 square meters, is 26 percent done. Its completion date is January 2025.

De Jesus reported that Phases 1 and 2 are complete, Phase 3 construction is underway, and Phase 4 started last February 2024.

“With the completion of navigational equipment, the terminal building, and all operational requirements, Bukidnon Airport will be fully operational by 2026. Once opened, the airport will boost regional connectivity and economic growth, serving as a vital gateway for passengers and cargo,” he confirmed, assuring the public that construction is on target.

This project is part of the government’s efforts to accelerate infrastructure development and boost economic growth in Mindanao.

Residents and local businesses are excited about the project.

Maribeth Labo, a local entrepreneur, said, “This airport will bring many opportunities. Easier travel means more business and growth for our community.” (With RLRB/PIA 10-Bukidnon)

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