25/08/2026
JUST IN : Night flight operations may soon be introduced at the Cauayan and Tuguegarao airports this year as the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) continues efforts to modernize and improve airport services across Cagayan Valley.
Mary Sulyn A. Sagorsor, Civil Aviation Area Manager of CAAP Area Center 2, said on Monday, August 24, that the agency is working to enhance airport connectivity, safety, and passenger services throughout the region.
In an interview with Kapehan sa Kapitolyo on Monday, Sagorsor highlighted several ongoing and planned airport projects, including the target launch of night flight operations at Cauayan and Tuguegarao airports within the year.
She also noted that the airport control facility in Cauayane is already prepared to support night landing operations.
Meanwhile, rehabilitation and expansion projects are continuing at the Cauayan, Basco, Palanan, and Itbayat airports as part of CAAP’s broader infrastructure development program.
CAAP is also working with the local government to revive flight operations at Bagabag Airport. Among the proposals being considered is a concession arrangement that could pave the way for the establishment of a flying school at the airport.
Alongside infrastructure improvements, CAAP is strengthening aviation safety and emergency preparedness in the region.
The agency is conducting specialized training, tabletop exercises, and full-scale emergency drills in coordination with the Office of Civil Defense and other stakeholders.
The initiatives are aimed at improving the region’s air transport network while ensuring that airports are equipped to provide safer, more efficient, and more reliable services to passengers.
Consistent Expansion Plan
Earlier this year, Sagorsor said in a press conference on Wednesday, February 18, 2026 that night flights at the Tuguegarao City Airport and others may be possible later this year towards 2027 once the new tower and expanded terminal are ready.
The Tuguegarao City Airport located at Barangay Pengue Ruyu in the key city of Cagayan currently holds four daytime flights for flag carrier Philippine Airlines and Cebu Pacific.
It is also a hub for local flights going to Basco, Itbayat in Batanes; the island town of Calayan in Cagayan; Maconacon, Palanan in Isabela via SkyPasada and NorthSky.
Tuguegarao's airport is 120 kilometers away from Cauayan City airport in nearby Isabela, however, a higher influx of tourists and travelers to Cagayan has been recorded by the agency.
It can presently accommodate 3 Airbus A320 aircrafts simultaneously under normal operations, according to CAAP.
The airport is a vital pillar of the local economy and its growth in Tuguegarao City as well as wider Cagayan Valley Region due to its strategic location and transport connectivity.
Full Scale Emergency Plan preparations
While CAAP Region 2 is currently expanding the infrastructure of the airport, local area manager Sagursur said it is also preparing for full-scale implementation for its personnel for safety and service by also involving other local stakeholders.
CAAP has started developing its Airport Emergency Plan involving all stakeholders from the PNP, BFP, Coast Guard, OCD, Local Government Unit/s, Village Chiefs, public and private hospitals, as well as the local media to ensure safety of flights and guaranteed emergency response.
"Air transport disasters are way different than land transport, they can be severe so this has to be prepared for and taken very seriously," CAAP Region 2 Manager Mary Sulyn A. Sagorsor said.
"A full-scale emergency plan is eyed to be done this year as well as the expansion of the airport and its flights," she added.
(via Mike Lim Jr/ The Northern Forum)
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