DAVAO CITY —The General Santos International Airport (GSIA) of the Department of Transportation (DOTr) will soon become a key gateway in the island of MINDANAO, which can serve the greater area of SOCCSKSARGEN and nearby regions.
As of 20 April 2021, the expansion and rehabilitation of the existing Passenger Terminal Building (PTB) of GSIA is now 96.51% complete.
The construction of the new powerhouse building was completed in 18 March 2021. The rehabilitation of the control tower, and construction works of the administrative building, are likewise 100% complete.
Other improvement works for the airport are still ongoing, including the upgrading of the power plant system, rehabilitation of Precision Approach Path Indicator (PAPI) 35 & 17, procurement of Navigational Aids, and construction works of the perimeter road and security fence.
Handled by the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP), under the able leadership of Director General Capt. Jim Sydiongco, the GSIA development project is poised to transform this hub to become the largest airport in Mindanao, capable of handling bigger, wide-bodied aircraft such as the Boeing 747 and 737, and other others including the Airbus A330, A340, and A350.
The General Santos International Airport is envisioned to greatly benefit the people of Mindnano for years ahead, with vast opportunities for economic growth, as well as securing and assuring the continuous transport of essentials such as food supply. And in a post-pandemic environment, Tourism is expected to play a crucial factor in the socio-economic progress of the region, with more jobs and entrepreneurial opportunities becoming available.
Some 500 construction workers were hired during the construction phase of the GSIA. Once GSIA becomes fully operational, demand of up to 1,200 job opportunities will be made available to residents of the region.
This huge airport development project will surely pave the way to further spur economic growth and progress in General Santos City and the entire Mindanao.
