Panoramic view inside Davao International Airport's Passenger Terminal Building. (JERRY S. TAN)

A look at Davao International Airport’s major improvements

The Department of Transportation (DOTr) and the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) continue to go further in their commitment to improve the country’s aviation gateways.

On Tuesday, CAAP Acting Area Center XI – Davao International Airport (DIA) Manager Rex A. Obcena shared updates on the ongoing developments at DIA.


Removal of board up materials at the north wing check-in expansion, in time for the kick off ceremonies of Araw ng Dabaw on March 1, 2023. (JERRY S. TAN)

This month, passengers will see construction underway on the airport’s passenger terminal building (PTB), particularly in its check-in and domestic arrival areas. While this development is ongoing, the airport has set up alternate secured areas where passengers will be redirected for the meantime.

The improvement of DIA PTB started on March 20, 2022 with a total cost of Php 46,981,074.37, and is expected to be completed by June 2023. As of February 2023, the project is now 35.26% completed and will increase immensely upon installation of new escalators and elevators at the check-in and domestic area.

Detailed activities being constructed under this project include painting works on the lobby ceiling, polishing of decorative areas, and special equipment works such as the said installation and improvement of escalators at the check-in area and domestic arrival area.


Glass panels and wood decor have also been installed in the airport’s mezzanine floor. While other ongoing works include the relocation of x-ray machines and installation board-ups.

Meanwhile, the proposed expansion project for DIA’s terminal building amounting to Php 699,549,324.15 is targeted to begin by June this year and is set to be completed by June 2025.


DIA is now one of the nation’s busiest airports, catering to 251 domestic and 11 international flights weekly.

With the influx of travelers transiting in the airport, the completion of these development projects are expected to allow the airport to serve and accommodate more passengers at a given time. Keeping up with the industry’s growth, CAAP through DIA will continue to provide safer, more secured, and convenient travel for Filipinos and the entire flying public.


Tags: Department of Transportation (DOTr)

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