EDITORIAL – CAAP makes a move

AN AIRLINE company would be slapped a hefty fine of P50,000 if it refuses to use aerobridges in the Davao International Airport and other airports in the country, as directed recently by the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines.
In making the use of the aerobridges mandatory, CAAP Deputy Director General Capt. John Andrews directed all airlines to “cease and desist from implementing any and all corporate policy geared towards evading or avoiding the use of such Aerodome facilities.”
Andrews said the CAAP “has determined that the use of aerobridges is not only for the convenience of airline passengers, but is more importantly in promotion of aviation safety and security.” The CAAP’s cease and desist order was issued on January 24, 2013.
The non-use of the aerobridges, also known as tubes, was first brought to the attention of the authorities two years ago by businessman Vicente T. Lao in behalf of senior citizens who complained about the abusive practice by so-called low-cost carriers (LCCs), otherwise known as “no-frills” airlines.
The cause for the elderly became part of a personal advocacy of sorts of Lao, who happens to be the vice chairman of the Regional Development Council for Region 11.
Indeed, senior citizens among the passengers complained about having difficulty climbing up and down flights of the boarding ramp just so the airlines could save money. Because of the complaints, the RDC passed a resolution addressed to CAAP asking for action on the matter.
By ordering the mandatory use of the jet bridges in case they are available, CAAP authorities are showing compassion for the elderly.
However, they would be showing the same compassion not only for elderly passengers but for all passengers if they could address the many other issues that bedevil the Davao International Airport, such as deteriorating facilities, lack of sanitation, unrepaired broken equipment—like the escalator which has been non-functioning for the last couple of months.
The DIA, also called Francisco Bangoy International Airport, is the most important air travel facility in this part of the country. Authorities should never take that for granted.