Ninoy Aquino International Airport
Manila's primary international gateway, NAIA connects the Philippines to the world with four terminals offering essential services.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, smoother check-in.
Ninoy Aquino International Airport
Best Time
Fewer crowds, smoother check-in.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Manila's primary international gateway, NAIA connects the Philippines to the world with four terminals offering essential services.
"NAIA offers a convenient entry to the Philippines, with friendly staff and improving facilities, despite occasional crowds and high prices."
Know Your Terminal
Confirm your airline's terminal before heading to NAIA to avoid confusion.
Secure Your Luggage
Be vigilant against 'tanim bala' scams; consider luggage wraps.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Terminal 3 International Departures
Terminal 3
Experience the bustling airside of international departures, a gateway to global adventures.
Philippine Airlines Mabuhay Lounge
Terminal 1
Relax in comfort at the new Mabuhay Lounge, offering a premium pre-flight experience.
Newport City Proximity
Adjacent to Terminal 3
Explore the vibrant township of Newport City for dining and entertainment near the airport.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating NAIA's Terminals
Beat the Crowds & Scams
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Know Your Terminal
Confirm your airline's terminal before heading to NAIA to avoid confusion.
Secure Your Luggage
Be vigilant against 'tanim bala' scams; consider luggage wraps.
Currency Exchange
Exchange rates at NAIA are expensive; bring PHP or use cards where possible.
Plan for Delays
Immigration lines can be long, especially during peak times.
Tips
from all over the internet
Know Your Terminal
Confirm your airline's terminal before heading to NAIA to avoid confusion.
Secure Your Luggage
Be vigilant against 'tanim bala' scams; consider luggage wraps.
Currency Exchange
Exchange rates at NAIA are expensive; bring PHP or use cards where possible.
Plan for Delays
Immigration lines can be long, especially during peak times.
Stay Connected
Consider purchasing a local SIM card for easier communication.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
NAIA receives mixed reviews, with many praising the friendly staff and improving facilities, while others point to long queues, high prices, and occasional cleanliness issues. The airport's convenience is often highlighted, but renovation works and crowd management remain areas for improvement.
"I had the chance to travel through Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) last year, and it was a smooth and pleasant experience overall.
✈️ What I Loved
• Friendly & Welcoming Staff – From check-in to immigration, the staff were very courteous and always ready to assist with a smile. It felt like a genuine reflection of the famous Filipino hospitality.
• Good Food & Shopping Options – The airport had a variety of choices to enjoy before the flight, from quick snacks to proper meals, as well as duty-free shops with plenty of options for souvenirs and gifts.
• Clean & Organized – The terminal areas I passed through were tidy and easy to navigate, with clear signage that made it simple to move between check-in, security, and boarding gates.
• Convenient Location – Being so close to the heart of Manila made arriving and departing easier, especially if you want to explore the city before or after your flight.
🌟 Overall Impression
NAIA gave me a comfortable start and finish to my trip. The welcoming atmosphere, smooth process, and helpful staff left me with a very positive impression. It’s a great introduction to the Philippines, setting the tone for the warmth and friendliness the country is known for."
Saikat Mandal Tanu
"Maybe the timing of my visit wasn't good, but I had a horrible experience here.
1) There was a very strong unhealthy smell of fresh paint being done on the walls, which lingered in my nose all the way through to the arrivals hall.
2) Once there, the options to buy sim cards were relidiculously overpriced, nothing less than 1000 PHP.
3) Furthermore, the crowd control system and construction work boundaries were poorly implemented.
4) Lastly, the eating options at the arrivals hall were only junky fast food joints (Wendy's and BK),with one line semi healthy Chinese restaurant that had limited variety a land slow service.
Never again"
Ace
"A lot of improvements/renovation is going on. Fast lane for senior citizens at check-in counter and Immigration booths are a big help. I did not encounter any problem nor delays in processing my flight to Japan."
Orlando dela Cruz
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
NAIA is accessible via various transport options. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Grab are readily available. Public buses also serve the airport, connecting it to different parts of Metro Manila. For a more direct route, consider airport shuttle services or pre-booked private transfers.
Terminals 1 and 3 primarily handle international flights. Terminal 1 is used by several foreign airlines, while Terminal 3 hosts many international carriers, including those from Asia and the Middle East. Always confirm your airline's specific terminal.
Yes, NAIA operates a free shuttle bus service connecting its four terminals. This is crucial for passengers with connecting flights or those who need to reach a different terminal for check-in. Check the latest schedules upon arrival.
Newport City is conveniently located next to NAIA Terminal 3. You can take a short taxi or Grab ride, or even walk if you're near the terminal. It's a popular area for dining and entertainment.
Yes, official airport taxis are available at all terminals. It's advisable to use the designated taxi queues to avoid potential overcharging. Ride-sharing apps are also a popular and often more affordable option.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Historically, terminal fees were collected, but these are often now included in the airfare for international and domestic flights. It's best to check with your airline or ticket provider to confirm if a separate terminal fee is applicable to your booking.
NAIA terminals generally operate 24/7 to accommodate the flight schedules. However, individual airline check-in counters and specific services may have limited operating hours.
While some airline offices might be present, it's not recommended to rely on purchasing tickets at the airport. It's best to book your flights in advance online or through a travel agent for better prices and availability.
Standard airport security regulations apply. Liquids, aerosols, and gels (LAGs) in carry-on baggage must be in containers of 100ml or less and placed in a transparent, resealable plastic bag. Sharp objects and flammable items are prohibited.
For international flights, it's recommended to arrive at NAIA at least 3 hours before your scheduled departure. This allows ample time for check-in, security screening, and immigration, especially considering potential queues.
🎫 ✈️ Onsite Experience
NAIA offers a range of amenities including free Wi-Fi (though sometimes spotty), currency exchange booths, ATMs, prayer rooms, and various dining and retail outlets. Lounges are available for eligible passengers.
Yes, free Wi-Fi is generally available at NAIA terminals. However, the connection can be inconsistent, and some users report it being slow or limited. It's advisable to have a backup data plan.
NAIA has a variety of food options, from fast-food chains like McDonald's and Wendy's to local Filipino eateries and some international cuisine. Restaurants are often located on higher floors in the arrival halls.
SIM card retailers are usually available in the arrival areas of NAIA terminals. However, prices at the airport can be significantly higher than in the city.
If you lose an item, report it to the airport's Lost and Found department as soon as possible. For items lost on a specific airline, contact the airline directly.
📸 📸 Photography
Plane spotting is a popular activity for aviation enthusiasts. While there aren't dedicated viewing decks, certain areas around the airport, particularly near Terminal 3 and Newport City, offer views of aircraft movements. Be mindful of security and avoid restricted areas.
The airside areas of Terminal 3 offer dynamic views of aircraft on the tarmac. The exterior of the terminals can also provide interesting architectural shots. Capturing the bustling atmosphere of the departure and arrival halls can also yield great photos.
It is generally discouraged and often prohibited to take photos of security personnel, immigration officers, or sensitive areas within the airport for security reasons. Always be respectful of airport regulations.
While NAIA is a functional airport, you might capture interesting moments of travelers, aircraft takeoffs and landings, or the unique Filipino hospitality. The Mabuhay Lounge offers a more refined backdrop for photos.
Aviation photography, capturing aircraft movements and the airport environment, is quite popular. Candid shots of travelers and the general airport ambiance are also common.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Be prepared for potentially long queues at immigration and security. If possible, utilize any priority lanes available for families. While the airport staff are generally friendly, keeping a close eye on children in crowded areas is always recommended. The proximity of Newport City to Terminal 3 offers a good option for families looking for dining or a brief respite before or after a flight.
💰 Budget Travelers
Food options at NAIA range from fast food to local eateries. While convenient, airport dining can be pricier. Look for local food stalls or consider eating before or after your airport transit to manage costs. Be aware of potential scams and always use official taxi queues or reputable ride-sharing apps.
✈️ Aviation Enthusiasts
Keep an eye out for various aircraft types, from domestic carriers to international wide-body jets. The airport's operations, especially during challenging weather conditions like typhoons, can provide dramatic photographic moments. Remember to respect airport security and avoid restricted areas when pursuing your photographic interests.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating NAIA's Terminals: A Guide
Connecting between terminals can be a challenge due to traffic and distance. Fortunately, NAIA provides a free shuttle bus service that operates regularly, linking all four terminals. It's advisable to factor in ample time for transfers, especially if you have a tight connection. Ride-sharing services and taxis are also available for inter-terminal travel, though they incur a fee. Travelers often recommend checking the latest shuttle schedules upon arrival to avoid any confusion.
Recent renovations and ongoing improvements aim to enhance the passenger experience across all terminals. While some areas might still show signs of age or ongoing construction, the efforts are geared towards modernizing facilities, improving passenger flow, and increasing efficiency. Keep an eye out for new amenities and upgraded services as you navigate through NAIA.
Safety and Security at NAIA: Traveler Insights
Beyond the 'tanim bala' scam, general airport security protocols are in place, including baggage screening and immigration checks. Passengers should familiarize themselves with prohibited items for both carry-on and checked baggage. The airport also has CCTV surveillance in many areas, which has been instrumental in identifying and apprehending individuals involved in illicit activities, such as the case of a security officer caught swallowing stolen cash.
Filipino hospitality is renowned, and many airport staff are genuinely helpful. However, it's always wise to remain cautious and trust your instincts. If you encounter any issues or feel unsafe, do not hesitate to seek assistance from uniformed personnel or report your concerns to the airport management. Being informed and prepared is key to a safe journey through NAIA.
Dining and Shopping at NAIA: What to Expect
The shopping experience at NAIA includes duty-free stores selling a range of products from cosmetics and perfumes to local delicacies and souvenirs. While convenient for last-minute purchases, be aware that prices, especially for currency exchange and SIM cards, can be significantly higher than in the city. Many travelers recommend exchanging currency or purchasing SIM cards outside the airport for better rates.
For those seeking a more premium experience, Philippine Airlines' Mabuhay Lounge at Terminal 1 offers a comfortable retreat with food, drinks, and amenities.
While the airport is undergoing renovations, the availability and variety of dining and shopping outlets may change. It's always a good idea to check for the latest offerings or have some local currency on hand for smaller vendors.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit