SPECIAL ECONOMIC ZONES
A QUIET AIRSTRIP FOR BEGINNERS By January Guia Caringal
T
he San Fernando Airport situated in the province of La Union has undergone a remarkable transformation from a modest airstrip to a dynamic aviation center in the northern region of the Philippines. This transition has enhanced the airport’s reputation and resulted in the establishment of La Union as a prominent participant in the aviation industry in our country. Originally serving only basic pilot instruction and community flights, the airport has grown into a premier aviation training facility with state-of-the-art amenities that attract aspiring pilots from across the country. San Fernando Airport started as a modest, underutilized airstrip with minimal amenities, primarily serving as a touch-and-go training ground for aviation schools. Its serene setting and reliable conditions have made it a well-known but underrated training location for budding aviators to master the fundamentals of flight. 34 Collective / Issue 26 34 Collective / Issue 17
A Vision for Growth and Expansion With the expansion of the aviation industry in the Philippines, the demands for more pilot training facilities surged and San Fernando Airport became ideal to meet this need. Recognizing its potential, Poro Point Management Corp. (PPMC) and aviation professionals saw an opportunity for significant development Development plans were swiftly implemented to enhance the airport. Upgrades included expanding the runway, modernizing the facilities, and installing advanced navigation and communication systems. These changes were intended to attract more flight schools, fostering job creation and economic growth in the region. Moreover, San Fernando Airport has two aviation schools: Leading Edge International Aviation Academy Inc. (LEIAAI) and AAG Centre for Aviation Training, while other institutions continue to utilize the airport for touch-and-go training exercises. Today, San Fernando Airport is a preferred training venue for numerous aviation schools, providing a professional environment that meets international standards.