Here’s an exciting development to look forward to! After more than a decade of setbacks, the Bicol International Airport (BIA) in Daraga, Albay has finally started construction in Jul 2020. Designed to be an international gateway to Bicol, this new airport will accommodate around two million passengers yearly.
Also read: Two Philippine Airports Named Among the Best in Asia
Luckily, it looks like we don’t have to wait very long to see this stunning airport in person. The Department of Transportation (DOTr) expects the airport to be completed by Dec 2020. Check out the announcement about the ongoing construction below:
BICOL INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT. After more than a decade of delay, the "Most Scenic Gateway" is now making a huge headway…
Posted by Department of Transportation – Philippines on Saturday, July 25, 2020
According to a report by the Philippine News Agency, this airport project has been delayed for 11 years. The feasibility study for the airport in Bicol began in 1996, whereas the official notice to proceed was given as early as Jul 2009.
Despite further delays caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the airport is on its way to reaching its target completion date by the end of this year. Already, it’s more than halfway complete. As of Jun 2020, the airport had a completion rate of 66.61%.

Shaping up to be the “Most Scenic Gateway” in the Philippines, Bicol International Airport will be emerging in the heart of the Bicol Region, where tourists can visit world-famous attractions such as Mayon Volcano and Cagsasa Ruins.
Additionally, the Department of Transportation is hoping that the new airport will help the aviation industry and boost tourism in Bicol and the rest of Southern Luzon, especially once international travel resumes.
Also read: Send Love to Bicolandia: Here’s How You Can Send Your Cargo from North Luzon to Bicol
Indeed, these developments on Bicol International Airport sound quite promising, don’t you think? We can already picture it in our heads — the near-perfect cone of Mayon Volcano from the window as the plane touches down.