Candon Airport (under construction)

The airport is not 'closed' in the traditional sense of ceasing operations. It is a newly built facility that is awaiting final regulatory approval and an official license to operate from the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP). The delay in its opening is due to the ongoing certification process.

The site consists of a completed 1.2-kilometer paved runway with markings, located in Barangay Tablac. However, it currently lacks a passenger terminal, control tower, and other major infrastructure typically associated with a commercial airport. The facility is non-operational and inaccessible to the public while it awaits its license from CAAP. The site has undergone several inspections by aviation authorities as part of the certification process.

Candon Airport has no operational history as a public airport. Its significance is as a major infrastructure project for Candon City and the province of Ilocos Sur, developed to stimulate the local economy and tourism. Construction of the runway and basic facilities was largely completed by 2022. The project was championed by local political leaders, including the Singson family, who advocated for its funding and development. In February 2022, the Ilocos Sur provincial board passed a resolution urging that the airport be named 'Eric D. Singson Airport' in honor of the former congressman. The ICAO code PH-0713 is an unofficial or provisional identifier; a permanent ICAO code (typically starting with 'RP' for the Philippines) will likely be assigned upon official certification.

Prospects are for the airport's *opening*, not reopening. Local and national government officials are actively working to complete the requirements for its official launch. As of early 2024, the process was reported to be in its final stages, pending the issuance of the airport license by CAAP. Once certified, it is expected to cater to general aviation, private jets, and potentially charter or limited commercial flights, providing a new gateway to the Ilocos Region.