Thousand Islands International Airport (under construction)

The airport did not 'close' in the traditional sense of ceasing operations; rather, its development was stalled. The halt is attributed to a combination of factors, including a potential shift in local government priorities, lack of further funding for completion and operational certification, and the severe impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on tourism and infrastructure projects starting in 2020.

The site consists of a paved runway, approximately 1.2 to 1.3 kilometers long, and basic taxiways. However, it lacks essential airport infrastructure such as a passenger terminal building, air traffic control tower, hangars, and perimeter fencing. Satellite imagery shows the runway is intact but the surrounding area is undeveloped. The site is currently unused for aviation and is reportedly used by local residents for recreational activities like jogging, cycling, and driving practice.

The airport holds significance as a major, but ultimately uncompleted, infrastructure project for Alaminos City. It was envisioned as a critical component to boost tourism for the renowned Hundred Islands National Park, which it is named after. The plan was to cater to general aviation, including small private planes, air taxis, and charter flights, providing direct air access for tourists and bypassing the lengthy land travel from major hubs like Manila or Clark. It was intended to handle domestic flights and potentially serve as a hub for flight training schools. However, as it never became operational, it has no history of active flight operations.

The prospect for completion and opening is uncertain. While local officials have periodically expressed a desire to revive the project to support the region's tourism goals, there have been no recent concrete announcements regarding new funding allocation or a definitive timeline for its completion and operational launch. Its future is dependent on securing significant investment and renewed political will from both local and national government bodies.