Lufthansa Technik is preparing to invest 15 billion pesos for an expansion project at Clark.

The president of LUFTHANSA TECHNIK Philippines, Inc. (LTP) stated that the company is considering expanding to Clark and shared their intention to construct two large hangar bases worth P15 billion.

The NAIA (Ninoy Aquino International Airport) is currently at full capacity, preventing any further construction. To accommodate our needs, we must construct new hangars in another location. We are considering Clark as its airport is already prepared and suitable for our operations,” shared LTP President and CEO Elmar Lutter in a recent interview with reporters.

According to him, the company’s goal is to construct hangars capable of housing sizable planes such as the Airbus A380.

According to Mr. Lutter, A380s are considerable planes and their size poses a challenge at NAIA. However, in Clark, there is ample space for us and it benefits the airport greatly.

According to him, the initial stage of the proposed growth is expected to require approximately P5 billion, while the second stage is projected to cost up to P10 billion.

Mr. Lutter stated that an estimated amount of P10 billion would be needed to fully equip our wide-body portfolio, including the 777 and A330 models. This construction will take place in either Clark or one of the new airports.

However, aircraft maintenance, repair, and overhaul provider LTP stated that this proposal is currently awaiting required approvals.

“Approval is required from both of our shareholders as we are a joint venture,” he stated.

LTP is a partnership between MacroAsia Corp. and Lufthansa Technik AG from Germany. It offers maintenance, repair, and overhaul services for airplanes at multiple airports in the Philippines, such as NAIA, Mactan-Cebu International Airport, Kalibo International Airport, and Puerto Princesa Airport.

According to Mr. Lutter, in order to progress and plan for the future, we must create a substitute for NAIA. It is important to note that the existence of new airports may change our focus towards NAIA.

Previously, LTP announced its intention to broaden its operations beyond the National Capital Region in light of upcoming airports in Cavite and Bulacan, which are being considered as potential sites for its aircraft maintenance, repair, and overhaul hubs.