Clark International Airport Corp. President Jojit Alcazar announced on Monday that the new Air Traffic Control (ATC) tower at Clark International Airport is set to enhance safety and improve operational efficiency in managing air traffic.

“The tower is expected to be operational by the second quarter of this year,” Alcazar said, noting that increased air traffic volume is anticipated, making safety a top priority. The tower project was awarded to MSV Construction and Supplies in partnership with Northern Builders Construction Corp.

The new 18-story tower, offering panoramic views of the airfield, will resolve the current line-of-sight challenges on the north-end approach area of the runway. This upgrade will provide optimal visibility for air traffic control operations.

Alcazar acknowledged the ongoing challenges faced by airports nationwide, including airspace congestion, equipment malfunctions, and adverse weather conditions. With global air traffic on the rise, reaching or even surpassing pre-pandemic levels in some regions, the new tower is designed to support more efficient air traffic management.

“The new ATC tower will incorporate advanced communication technologies used at leading airports worldwide, prioritizing safety and international standards,” Alcazar said.

He also emphasized that the new system will help quickly address challenges posed by the increasing travel volume at Clark. Last month, CIAC engineers and specialists, alongside the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines, completed training on modern traffic communication, navigation, and surveillance systems abroad.

Furthermore, Alcazar highlighted that the new ATC tower aligns with the development of CIAC’s Seven Flagship Projects, which involve significant logistics and cargo movement, including initiatives like the National Food Hub, a World Convention and Events Center, and a Multi-Modal Mobility Hub.