Officially known as Godofredo P. Ramos Airport (IATA: MPH), Caticlan Airport serves as the primary aviation gateway to Boracay Island , one of the world's most celebrated tropical destinations. Located in Malay, Aklan province, Philippines, this compact airport sits less than one kilometer from the coastline, providing vital access to the island's famed powdery white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters.
A Vital Hub for Island Tourism
Since its official opening in 2001, Caticlan Airport has undergone multiple expansions to accommodate the growing influx of tourists drawn to Boracay's world-class resorts and diverse water activities including scuba diving, surfing, windsurfing, and snorkeling. The airport's strategic importance cannot be overstated—it serves as the critical link between mainland transportation networks and the island's thriving tourism economy.
The airport's 950-meter concrete runway, while unsuitable for large commercial jets, efficiently handles small jet aircraft and turboprops that dominate the short-haul routes from Manila, Cebu, and Davao. Major Philippine carriers like Philippine Airlines and Cebu Pacific operate regular flights, with most journeys completed in under an hour.
Modern Facilities and Growing Capacity
Managed by the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines with operational oversight by TransAire Development Holdings, Caticlan Airport underwent a comprehensive terminal upgrade in 2011. The modernization project introduced contemporary facilities designed to enhance passenger comfort while accommodating increasing international arrivals.
Passenger traffic statistics reveal the airport's growing significance—handling 761,961 travelers in 2008 alone, ranking it as the seventh busiest airport in the Philippines and third in the Western Visayas region. Continuous improvements to infrastructure and services ensure smooth operations despite this heavy volume.
Seamless Island Transfers
The airport's proximity to Boracay (just a few kilometers away) enables remarkably efficient transfers. Visitors typically complete their journey via water taxis or speedboats from Caticlan Jetty Port, reaching the island's resorts within 30 minutes of landing. Ongoing improvements to ground transportation networks further streamline connections between the airport and various accommodation options.
Environmental considerations have become increasingly central to the airport's development strategy. Recent upgrades incorporate sustainable design elements and operational protocols to minimize ecological impact on the surrounding marine ecosystem—a crucial factor for preserving Boracay's natural appeal.
As Philippine tourism continues its upward trajectory, Caticlan Airport stands poised for further expansion. Its unique role as Boracay's aerial gateway ensures its position as an increasingly important hub within the nation's aviation network, serving both leisure travelers and business visitors seeking access to this world-renowned island paradise.
