CLARK FREEPORT ZONE (PIA) — Up to 1,200 highly skilled jobs for Filipinos and expanded capacity for large and wide-body aircraft are among the expected gains from the Lufthansa Technik Philippines’ new maintenance facility that will be built within the Clark International Airport complex.
This reinforces the government’s drive to turn major transport infrastructure investments into jobs, stronger industries, and improved connectivity.
The project also aligns with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. ‘s infrastructure priorities outlined in his 2026 State of the Nation Address, particularly the expansion and modernization of airports to increase capacity and improve transport services.
“Kaya pinagtutuunan natin nang mabuti ang mga tren, mga busways, transport hubs at integrated terminals, at ang pagpapaganda at pagpapalawak ng mga paliparan at pantalan sa buong bansa. Ito ay upang mas malawak at malayo ang naaabot, tumaas ang kapasidad, at maging moderno at mas maginhawa ang serbisyo,” President Marcos said.
Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Giovanni Lopez said the facility marks a major investment that will expand the country’s aviation maintenance capabilities while creating opportunities for Filipino workers.
The project’s clearest benefit is the employment and skills development opportunities it will provide for Filipino aviation professionals.
“Its clearest benefit to Filipinos will be the opportunities it creates. Around 1,200 highly skilled jobs are expected to open over the coming years, giving Filipino engineers, technicians, and other aviation professionals the chance to receive specialized training and build lasting careers here at home,” Lopez said in a message delivered by DOTr Undersecretary for Aviation and Airports Jim Sydiongco.
The facility will help strengthen the domestic aviation workforce by providing engineers, technicians, and other professionals with opportunities to gain specialized expertise in aircraft maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO).
Targeted to begin operations in 2028, Lufthansa Technik Philippines Clark maintenance facility will have up to nine bays for the MRO of large aircraft, allowing more advanced aircraft servicing activities to be undertaken locally.
“The facility will also expand our capacity to maintain and service wide-body aircraft here in the Philippines. In doing so, it will strengthen Clark’s role as an aviation and aerospace hub for the country,” Lopez added.
Covering approximately 157,000 square meters, the facility is also expected to generate wider economic opportunities through technology and knowledge transfer, aviation-related services, and the growth of industries supporting aircraft maintenance and airport operations.
Lufthansa Technik Chairperson of the Executive Board and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Soeren Stark expressed appreciation for the Philippine government’s support, noting the company’s more than 25 years of operations in the country.
“The growth and success of the company are never given, they require not only hard work and dedication but also a business friendly environment and strong support from the government. We’ve been fortunate to experience both here in the Philippines for more than 25 years,” Stark said.
Lufthansa Technik Philippines President and CEO Holger Beck, for his part, said the investment will further integrate Clark into Lufthansa Technik’s global network and strengthen the Philippines’ position as an aviation center in the Asia-Pacific.
“The site will cover approximately 157,000 square meters, creating the foundation for one of the most advanced aircraft maintenance facilities. With these investments, Clark will become a key part of Lufthansa Technik’s global network and an important center for aviation excellence in Asia-Pacific,” Beck said.
This project demonstrates how investments in airport and aviation infrastructure can translate into tangible benefits for Filipinos, from high-skilled employment and specialized training, to expanded aviation capacity and stronger participation in the regional economy. (Marie Joy S. Carbungco)
