The New Bohol International Airport, currently in the final stages of construction in Panglao Island, is expected to be fully operational by August 2018. The PhP7.8-billion facility will replace the existing Tagbilaran Airport, the country’s 11th busiest airport.
Eco airport
Billed as the “Green Gateway to the World,” the new airport sits on a 230-hectare property, and is intended to serve as a major lifeline in boosting tourist traffic in Bohol, and surrounding tourist destinations.
A joint effort between the Philippine government and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), the airport will feature a 2.5-kilometer runway, and a 13,000-square meter terminal. The latter is highlighted by its roof—a multi-curved structure that appears to be floating over the building, a design that takes inspiration from Bohol’s Chocolate Hills and the waves of Panglao sea.
Designed as an ‘eco airport,’ it will implement various advanced Japanese technology. Using geotextile sheets, the surrounding environment will be protected from pollutants seeping out from the drainage, and from soaking the yard.
Energy-saving features that will be integrated in the airport’s design include the installation of 2,300 LED lights, while natural lighting and ventilation are utilized for most public areas. Air-conditioning will be solar powered, and will be available only in the pre-departure area.
According to Japan Airport Consultants project manager Tadashi Aoi, the airport can accommodate seven aircrafts at one time, including large aircrafts for international flights.


The New Bohol International Airport is expected to service up to 3.3 million passengers a year – accommodating direct flights from South Korea, Japan, and China – a huge jump from the 800,000 passengers currently being accommodated by the Tagbilaran Airport.
 
By VIA BAROMA