AIRPORTS in the Philippines are transforming into world-class aviation facilities with night-landing capabilities.

"Augmenting and increasing the capabilities of our airports to service more passengers at extended hours has been a consistent thrust of the Department of Transportation (DOTr), under the visionary and determined leadership of Secretary Arthur Tugade,” the agency said in a statement.

When the Duterte administration took over the reins of government in 2016, only 14 airports out of the total 42 across the country, had night-landing capabilities, the DoTr stressed.

Equipping airports with night-landing capabilities gives them flexibility to provide travelers with more flight options, and tremendously assist in allowing more turnaround time for airlines. This in turn, helps decongest our premier gateways like the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), it added.

In the 3 years of the current administration, eight major airports were upgraded and night-rated, bringing the total capable airports for night time flights at 22.

The agency disclosed that tiven the accelerated pace in which the night rating is being worked out, attainment for the remaining 20 airports is on track before

the end of the term of President Duterte.

"We at the DOTr are most committed to achieving this significant milestone, in order to enhance the mobility and connectivity of our people across regions," the transportation department stated.