NAIA operator taps Korean exec as COO

MANILA, Philippines — New NAIA Infra Corp. (NNIC) has appointed Jong Hoon “John” Kim, a veteran of nearly 30 years at Incheon International Airport, as chief operating officer.

NNIC, the private operator of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), has tasked Kim to oversee the day-to-day operations at the country’s main gateway.

He replaces Ok Chul Shin, who takes on a new assignment.

NNIC said Kim’s appointment is part of a broader effort to bring Incheon’s operational expertise to Manila, as the private operator seeks to improve NAIA’s passenger flow, security, cargo operations, facilities management and overall airport systems.

Incheon operates South Korea’s busiest airport and has consistently ranked among the world’s leading airports for service.

Its partnership with NNIC is expected to bring global airport operating standards to NAIA, which is undergoing its largest modernization effort in decades.

“John brings the operating discipline and technical depth NNIC needs at this stage of NAIA’s transformation. His experience at Incheon is directly relevant to the work ahead as we continue improving the airport’s systems, facilities and passenger experience,” NNIC general manager Angelito Alvarez said.

A licensed senior electrical engineer and certified project management professional, Kim holds a degree in electrical engineering from National Jeju University.

NNIC said Kim spent most of his career at Incheon, most recently as director of airport security management, where he led the rollout of biometric access control, AI-assisted CCTV and a comprehensive security inspection program.