Best Guide to Manila Airport: Terminals, Getting Around, and Travel Tips

Manila City’s Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) is a major gateway to the Philippines, welcoming millions of travelers each year. With four terminals handling both domestic and international flights, understanding the layout and available services can greatly enhance your travel experience. This comprehensive guide provides essential details about each terminal, airline assignments, amenities, and helpful travel tips. Whether you're catching a connecting flight or starting your adventure in the Philippines, this guide will help you navigate NAIA smoothly and confidently.

Serving Metro Manila and nearby areas, Ninoy Aquino International Airport, commonly known as NAIA (pronounced na-ee-ya), is the primary entry point for travelers and the main hub where most international flights to the Philippines land. Conveniently located in the southern part of Metro Manila, NAIA also acts as a key hub for travelers connecting to other destinations across the Philippines.

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NAIA is the hub for all major airlines operating in the Philippines. With four terminals, each serving specific airlines, it can be a bit confusing for travelers—especially with the variety of transportation options available to get around. Compared to other airports in the Philippines, NAIA stands out as the busiest and most expansive, making it essential to plan ahead.

This guide will help you navigate the terminals in NAIA and find the best way to get to your next destination with ease.

NAIA Airport Terminals

NAIA has four terminals, each simply named by its number. Since the terminals are not connected, it’s important to double-check your ticket to confirm which terminal you'll need to go to for your flight. 

Terminal 1

NAIA Terminal 1, the oldest terminal at the airport, primarily serves international flights and accommodates an average of six million passengers each year.

As of November 8, 2024, 19 airlines operate at Terminal 1, including Air China, Air Niugini, Asiana Airlines, China Airlines, China Eastern Airlines, EVA Air, Japan Airlines, Korean Air, Kuwait Airways, Malaysia Airlines, Royal Brunei Airlines, Saudia, XiamenAir, and Philippine Airlines’ international flights.

Philippine Airlines is the terminal’s largest user, with all of its international flights now departing from Terminal 1.

Terminal 2

NAIA Terminal 2, once exclusively dedicated to Philippine Airlines (PAL), the national flag carrier, has shifted to a domestic-only terminal under the Schedule and Terminal Assignment Rationalization (STAR) program implemented by the Manila International Airport Authority in 2023. All international flights for PAL now operate out of Terminal 1.

In addition to handling PAL’s domestic flights, Terminal 2 now also serves domestic flights for CebGo, Philippines AirAsia, and Royal Air. Known as the Centennial Terminal, this terminal was named to honor the 100th anniversary of Philippine Independence.

From Terminal 2, you can catch flights to Coron town and Puerto Princesa City on Palawan Island, as well as flights to Panglao Island in Bohol Province and other top destinations across the country.

Terminal 3

Photo by Manila International Airport Authority

NAIA Terminal 3 is the newest and largest terminal and serves as a hub for international flights as well. It has the capacity to handle 13 million passengers a year and has a footbridge that connects to Newport City, making luxury hotels and entertainment complexes more accessible.

Since it was built to help lessen the congestion in Terminal 1, plenty of international airlines recently made the switch between terminals, so keep an eye out for any changes. 

As of November 8, 2024, NAIA Terminal 3 hosts 24 airlines, including Cebu Pacific, AirAsia, United Airlines, Cathay Pacific, Singapore Airlines, Scoot, Qatar Airways, Emirates, Etihad, and others. Cebu Pacific, the terminal’s largest carrier, operates all its domestic and international flights from Terminal 3, establishing it as a significant hub for both local and international travelers.

Terminal 4

Photo by Xavier Summer

Terminal 4, also known as the Manila Domestic Passenger Terminal, will temporarily close for renovations beginning November 6, 2024. This temporary closure is part of a dedicated effort to upgrade the terminal’s facilities and ensure an even better experience for all travelers.

NAIA Terminal 4 is the oldest standing structure at NAIA and services the following non-international airlines: AirSWIFT, Cebgo, and Sunlight Air

From Terminal 4, you can catch flights to Boracay Island, Cebu Island, Siargao Island, and other key locations across the Philippines.

Getting Around Manila Airport Terminals

NAIA offers several transportation options to help you navigate between terminals and reach nearby destinations. Public buses like the UBE Express and P2P bus provide affordable transit between NAIA and key spots in Manila City and nearby destinations. For private transport, you can use car-hailing apps like Grab.

However, if you’re looking for the most convenient and stress-free experience, booking Manila airport transfers in advance is an excellent choice. With pre-booked transfers, you’ll have a dedicated vehicle waiting for you upon arrival, ensuring a smooth, comfortable journey with no last-minute worries or delays.

NAIA to/from Clark Airport

By point-to-point bus

Photo by Genesis Transfer Service Inc. 

The Metro Manila P2P bus is a scheduled bus service that takes passengers through fixed routes. The most prominent route is the direct connection between NAIA and Clark International Airport in Angeles City in Pampanga Province. This is handy for transit passengers connecting flights between the two airports. 

You will find the NAIA-Clark P2P bus terminal at the arrival area of Terminal 3. Trips from NAIA to Clark Airport only stop at Robinsons Galleria Mall at Ortigas Center before heading directly to Clark Airport, but trips from Clark to NAIA will stop at Terminal 1 and 2 before arriving at Terminal 3.

Average travel time ranges between three to four hours, and buses arrive every one to two hours from 2:00 AM to 10:30 AM for the NAIA-Clark route, while the Clark-NAIA route runs from 1:30 AM to 11:00 PM.

For a minimal additional fee, you can ride the JoyBus, which offers additional onboard luxuries like larger seats, in-seat entertainment, and a restroom, among other amenities. The JoyBus operates at 9 AM, 2 PM, and 4 PM between NAIA and Clark, and at 10:30 AM, 12:30 PM, and 2:30 PM between Clark Airport and NAIA.

NAIA to/from Metro Manila

By Bus

There are three types of buses that will take you to the places around Metro Manila from NAIA and vice-versa: UBE Express express buses, regular city buses, and minibus service.

By UBE Express

Photo by UBE Express

Similar to the Point-to-Point Buses, also known as P2P, the Ultimate Bus Experience (UBE Express) is a shuttle service that transports passengers from NAIA’s terminals to major locations within Metro Manila. Its routes include the following:

1. Entertainment City Route

This route goes between Entertainment City and Mall of Asia, with stops across all major hotels and casinos.

2. Grand Prix Route

This route goes to major transport hubs near the airport. Kabayan Hotel is a few steps away from MRT-3 Taft Avenue, and the Grand Prix Hotel is located near the Victory Liner Pasay Bus Terminal. MRT-3 Taft Avenue will take you north of Metro Manila, while Victory Liner has a wide range of routes going to places within and beyond Metro Manila.

3. Robinsons Route

This route travels through nearby hotels and attractions in Pasay and Manila with a few stops at hotels near the Philippine Cultural Center, Rizal Park, and Intramuros, the historic Manila Hotel, and ending in Robinson’s Place Manila, the largest of a famous chain of malls in the country. 

4. Makati City Route

This route travels directly to Parksquare Ayala Center in Makati City, the country’s financial center.

5. Ortigas Center Route

This route is headed to Robinsons Galleria, located in the central business district Ortigas.

6. Araneta Center Route

This route connects to Araneta Center in Quezon City's Cubao district, an entertainment hub in the northern part of Metro Manila. Araneta Center is also home to numerous bus terminals, making it a convenient gateway for trips within and beyond Metro Manila.

7. Alabang Route

This route travels to Alabang Town Center and Ayala Malls South Park, both located in the Alabang district, a commercial area in the southern part of Metro Manila.

8. Laguna Route

This route travels to major stops in Sta. Rosa City in Laguna Province, located just outside Metro Manila, namely Nuvali and Robinson’s Sta. Rosa Market.

Most routes start as early as 12 MN, and buses come every 30 minutes to an hour, but trip times will vary depending on the severity of Manila's traffic. 

UBE Express stops are found at the Main Arrivals Area for Terminal 1, Arrivals Bay 17 for Terminal 2, Arrivals Bay 14 for Terminal 3, and the Arrivals Exit for Terminal 4. Every bus has air-conditioning and Wi-Fi access. For full routes, updated schedules, and reservations, visit their Facebook page and/or website. 

By City Buses

Terminals 1, 2, and 3 are accessible via city buses. 

For Terminals 1 and 2, nine bus routes can take you to many places in Metro Manila. Eight of them run through Epifanio de los Santos Avenue or EDSA, a highway that runs through most of Metro Manila, while one runs through Circumferential Road 5, also known as C-5.  

The buses have a one-way route, meaning they stop at Terminal 2 and then at Terminal 1 exclusively in that order. Terminal 1’s bus stop is just after the departures ramp across the short-term parking lot and the greeter’s area, while Terminal 2’s bus stop can be found beside the departures ramp and after the entrance gate of the Manila International Airport Authority office. 

The buses run 24 hours a day, with considerably fewer buses at night. To know where the buses are going, keep an eye out for the signs on its dashboard, which will detail its route.

City buses are generally air-conditioned and have overhead space but are normally very full with everyday commuters, so this isn’t the most recommended mode of transport for travelers with large luggage. 

Terminal 3 has Citylink buses that follow a fixed route going from NAIA to Eastwood City in Quezon City and vice-versa. The bus passes through C-5 and has a stop at Resorts World Manila, just across the airport. 

All buses operate every day except on Sundays. NAIA-Eastwood buses are from 6:00 AM - 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM, with the exception of Saturday’s PM schedule being only one bus that departs at 4:00 PM.

Eastwood-NAIA buses, on the other hand, run from 6:00 AM - 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM - 7:30 PM, with Saturday also having its only PM departure at 5:00 PM. 

Terminal 4 has no city buses directly available. You can arrive by taking any bus going to Terminal 3 and alight there to take a shuttle going to Terminal 4 instead and vice-versa.

By Minibus

The Airport Loop service takes passengers from Terminal 3 to MRT-3 Taft Avenue Station and vice-versa. The route ends at Giselle’s Bus Terminal, which is beside the station. It’s also a transport hub filled with a variety of buses that go to destinations outside Metro Manila. 

By Jeepney

Jeepneys are a cheaper and smaller alternative to buses. They can accommodate up to 18 people, have no air conditioning, and have multiple stops. This is convenient for passengers looking to alight at specific places, but if you’re traveling with a large amount of luggage, we don’t recommend riding a jeepney. 

Three routes go around NAIA: Nichols-Vito Cruz-EDSA-Tramo, Baclaran-MIA, and Domestic Airport-Baclaran-South Pier.

The Nichols-Vito Cruz-EDSA-Tramo route passes by all terminals and stops near Giselle’s Bus Terminal, located just beside MRT-3 Taft Avenue Station.

The Baclaran-MIA route starts at Quirino Avenue and ends near LRT-1 Baclaran Station and services Terminals 1, 2, and 4.

The same goes for the Domestic Airport-Baclaran-South Pier route, with the huge difference being that it ends at Manila South Harbor and has additional stops that cater to certain locations in Manila City.

The Baclaran routes first stop in front of Terminal 4 before proceeding to Terminal 2 and 1’s respective designated bus stops, exclusively in that order. Meanwhile, Terminal 3’s jeepney stop may be found beside the Circulo del Mundo Rotonda, just outside the airport.

If you’re not keen on going that far, an alternative would be to alight at Resorts World Manila and cross Andrews Avenue to get to Terminal 3.

By Taxi

Taxis are another transportation option for getting around the city. It’s especially easy and convenient for travelers looking to get to the airport since the drivers already know where to take you. 

There are official yellow-metered airport taxis available with a fixed base rate. These taxis are officially registered and have their own taxi stand directly outside the terminal.

To know what your average cost should be, look up how far your destination is to avoid getting overcharged. If you find yourself with a taxi driver that wants to offer a fixed rate instead of using the meter, always insist on using the meter.

Regular white taxis are also available for hire. Similar to the official yellow airport taxis, they also go to almost any destination within Metro Manila, have fares that cost depending on distance, and you should also always insist on using the meter.

The major difference is that while white taxis are cheaper, they’re only allowed to drop off passengers at the departure levels of each terminal. They’re not allowed to pick up arriving passengers, but you can always go down to the departures level via elevator and catch one from there. 

While the yellow and white taxis operate on a calculated fare scheme, special coupon taxis have fixed prices per destination. They’re sometimes found as SUVs or minivans, which would be particularly useful for groups.

By Grab

Another private option would be to use the ride-share service, Grab. Similar to taxis, Grab differs in the use of its app and its many methods of payment, allowing for cashless transactions and only needing to pay the pre-calculated fare found on the app. Toll charges are not included in the calculated fare.

By Private Transfer

If you're looking for a hassle-free way to ensure you reach the airport on time, private airport transfers are the way to go. With a private transfer, you’ll enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing your ride will arrive exactly when you need it, and at a fixed, agreed-upon rate—no surprises.

Unlike ride-share services, which can be unpredictable due to demand, private transfers offer reliability and convenience, especially when traveling at night. Simply book in advance and enjoy a seamless, stress-free journey to the airport.

 

By Car

Driving to the airport has never been easier, thanks to the NAIA Expressway (NAIAx). Connecting NAIA to key routes like the Metro Manila Skyway, Manila-Cavite Expressway, and Macapagal Boulevard, NAIAx provides a smooth and direct path to the airport, making your journey more efficient whether you’re coming from different parts of Metro Manila or nearby cities.

NAIAx is divided into two segments: the shorter one connects to Terminals 1 and 2 via Macapagal Boulevard and the Manila-Cavite Expressway, while the longer segment leads to Terminal 3 via the Metro Manila Skyway. Although Terminal 4 isn’t directly accessible from NAIAx, it can be reached via Domestic Road.

With tollgates along the route, you’ll need to plan for additional charges when traveling on expressways like the Metro Manila Skyway. However, all four terminals are equipped with parking lots, making driving a viable and convenient option.

For those seeking more flexibility, rental cars can significantly enhance your experience. Whether you opt for a budget car rental in the Philippines if you’re traveling solo or in a small group, or an SUV for a longer trip or group travel, you'll enjoy both convenience and freedom. If you have a lot of luggage, van rentals can also offer the extra space you need.

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• Read the ultimate guide to renting a car in the Philippines to help you plan a hassle-free trip

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Inter-terminal Transportation

The terminals at NAIA are located in separate buildings and are not connected, so it’s important to double-check your terminal assignment to avoid confusion.

Free shuttle buses are available for passengers traveling between terminals. These shuttles can be found at the arrival area of each terminal under the "Transfers" sign.

While the shuttle buses run 24 hours, their schedule can be unpredictable, so it's best not to rely on them if you're in a rush. If you're pressed for time, consider other transportation options, though travel time will still depend on Manila's notorious traffic. Alternatively, you can take a 15-minute walk between Terminal 1 and 2 via the International Cargo Terminal.

Hotels Near Manila City Airport

Whether you're arriving from outside Manila City and prefer to stay close to the airport, or you're looking for a comfortable spot during a layover, check out these recommended hotels near Manila Airport:

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Manila Airport Hotel

Located just across NAIA Terminal 1, the Manila Airport Hotel is a convenient option for a quick stay. It has a host of regular rooms that won’t break the bank. 

Oyster Plaza Hotel

Photo by Oyster Plaza Hotel

This mid-budget hotel is located 4 km away from NAIA and is also close to places like City of Dreams and Solaire Resort & Casino. The rooms are fitted with flat-screen television and safes as well as free Wi-Fi in every room. There is a complimentary airport shuttle service.

Nichols Airport Hotel 

Photo by Nichols Airport Hotel

This budget hotel is 2.4 km away from the airport (particularly Terminal 4) and is also near attractions like Mall of Asia. It offers free WiFi, cable TV, and 24-hour room service. They have a rooftop terrace and spa area for some quick relaxation. Airport transfers are free of charge.

Belmont Hotel 

Photo by Belmont Hotel

This hotel is found within Resorts World Manila and is located 1 km away from Terminal 3. Guests can enjoy the rooftop terrace, outdoor pool, and, if the timing is right, a breathtaking view of the Manila City sunset. There is a complimentary airport shuttle service, or take a 5-minute walk using the Runway Manila Skybridge to get to Terminal 3.

Holiday Inn Express Manila 

Photo by Holiday Inn Express Manila

Frequent travelers will find comfort in this familiar brand of hotel. Passengers can take a 5-minute walk using the Runway Manila Skybridge to get to Terminal 3 or ride their 24-hour airport shuttle service going to Terminals 1 and 2. Cebu Pacific passengers may also opt to check in for their flights at the Resorts World Manila Travelers Lounge for a hassle-free wait.

Manila Marriott Hotel

Photo by Manila Marriott Hotel

Another familiar name nestled within Resorts World Manila, Marriott Hotel is known for its high-class elegance and convenience for business travelers. This hotel houses a casino and golf course, as well as diverse dining options. They offer complimentary airport transfers to Terminals 1, 2, and 3. It’s also accessible via a 5-minute walk using the Runway Manila Skybridge connected to Terminal 3.

Maxims Hotel

This hotel is the most expensive in Newport City. It has a 6-star rating and equips rooms with individual in-room WiFi and a personal butler. The hotel also houses a casino, bars, a nightclub, and a mall. Airport transfers are complimentary, but passengers may also cross the Runway Manila Skybridge to reach Terminal 3.

Sheraton Manila Hotel

Photo by Sheraton Manila

As part of the Marriott Hotel, Sheraton Manila is the newest standing structure around Resorts World Manila. The hotel houses facilities like a spa, a scenic outdoor pool, a business center, and their fancy Korean barbecue restaurant Oori. It’s family-friendly and offers babysitting as well as a Kid’s Club where children can learn. Their airport shuttle service is complimentary.

Practical Information and Tips 

Check-In/Boarding Time

Make sure to double-check which terminal you need to be at and aim to arrive at least three hours before your flight to give yourself plenty of time. There’s a security check before entering, and the line can get long, so it's best to be prepared.

Once you're inside, simply head to your airline's check-in counter. If your airline offers web check-ins, take advantage of it to skip the long lines—many airlines have dedicated counters for this!

After checking in, international passengers will head to immigration. Then, there’s one final security check before you can relax at your boarding gate or explore the terminal. Be sure to check the location of your gate ahead of time so you’ll know exactly where to go when it’s time to board!

Fees

Foreigners on a short visit, overseas Filipino workers, Filipino permanent residents abroad with a stay of less than one year, and infants are exempted from paying travel tax. NAIA has a terminal fee for international and domestic flights, which is usually already added to the cost of the ticket of every passenger.

Safety

Be wary of any non-uniformed personnel approaching passengers. Keep your documents close and always make sure that they’re always all accounted for. For luggage porters, there are official uniformed porters that can help you for a fee.

Overseas Filipino workers should watch out for the hold-departure order scam often conducted by immigration officers. Other known travel scams to watch out for include the bullet-planting scam also known as tanim-bala.

While cases have subsided, continue to exercise caution by wrapping your luggage. Other passengers prefer using hardshell luggage, but others opt to wrap it in plastic wrap for any luggage that has zippers.

Currency

There are ATMs at all four terminals, but they are located before the pre-departure area. Most stores in the international wings of terminals accept pesos and US dollars, but wings that serve domestic flights always have pesos on hand. It’s also wise to carry cash at all times because plenty of stores do not accept credit cards. Currency exchange services are also available in the Departures and Arrivals of every terminal.

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• Read the ultimate guide on Philippine Peso currency to learn more

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Language

English is a widely-spoken language in the Philippines. Signs can be found in both Filipino and English, and airport personnel are usually fluent in both languages.

WiFi

NAIA offers free WiFi in 30-minute sessions. Once the session is up, you’re still able to reconnect. Local providers Globe and Smart also provide free WiFi as long as you have a local number.

Terminals 1 and 2 have computer terminals with access to the internet as well, and Terminal 2 has additional laptop desks beside its computer terminals.

Sleeping Lounge

Photo by The Wings Transit Lounge

Passengers with long connections can avail of Terminal 1 and 3’s lodging facilities. For Terminal 1, the Passengers Lodging Facility has day rooms available to rent for 24 hours. It’s located beside Gate 16 at the arrivals level and is air-conditioned. You may approach the Transfer Desk to reserve a room.

Terminal 3, on the other hand, has the Wings Transit Lounge, which offers 24-hour room service, free Wi-Fi, daily housekeeping, showers, and toiletries. It’s located on the 4th floor and accepts cash only. 

Airport Facilities

Luggage

NAIA Terminal 3 allows luggage storage with service provided by Luggage & More. The cost will depend on the size and how long you will store them. 

Service for Terminal 2’s luggage storage is provided by Philippine Airlines. Terminal 1 does not have a formal luggage storage service, but passengers may leave theirs at the Interline Baggage Section beside the baggage claim area for a fee.

Post Office

The airport has two post office branches for any last-minute letters or postcards. Terminal 1’s post office is located in the west wing of the Arrivals lobby, while Terminal 2’s is located beside the Pass Control Office on the South Wing. Both are open on weekdays from 8 AM to 5 PM.

Stamps are purchased at most stores in their respective terminals, and they’re also able to hold mail over the weekend and bring it to the post office on Monday. 

Smoking Areas

There are no free smoking areas within the airport building, but a few restaurants have smoking areas for customers. Terminal 1’s is located close to the transit lounge in Arrivals, Terminal 2 has The Tinderbox, which serves as its smoking lounge, Terminal 3 has several locations on the third level as well as other select restaurants. Terminal 4 does not have any smoking lounges.

Family-Friendly Facilities

NAIA Terminals have nursing rooms with playpens, bottle warmers, and diapers. Terminal 1’s is located at the Departures area, and Terminal 2’s is located at Airside in both North and South wings. Terminal 3 and 4’s nursing rooms are both located in their respective Pre-Departures areas.

NAIA also has Kiddie Traveler Lounges in Terminals 1, 3, and 4. It has a play area, toys and games, cartoons on TV, changing rooms, and feeding stations. Terminal 1’s is located near the Transit Lounge from 6:00 AM to 10:00 AM and allows children up to age 14.

Terminal 3 has two lounges, each at the domestic and international pre-departure areas. Terminal 4’s lounge is located at the Pre-Departure Hall near Gate 5 and allows children up to age 7.

Places of Worship

Photo by Our Lady of the Airways Parish

There are several places of worship in NAIA. All four terminals have Christian Chapels, while Terminals 1, 2, and 3 have Muslim prayer rooms. They have foot basins and Qiblah directions inside. There is also Our Lady of the Airways Parish Church, the airport’s official church, just outside the airport on NAIA Road.

Shopping

Photo by Duty Free Philippines

Duty-free shopping is available at Terminals 2 and 3. Terminal 3 is also connected to a 4-level shopping mall.

Whether you're landing in Manila City for the first time or catching a connecting flight, navigating NAIA can be simple and stress-free with the right information. From understanding terminal details to exploring transportation options, you'll be prepared for a smooth airport experience.

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