Flying to Manila with Cheap Flights? Your Guide to the City’s Airports and Beyond

Manila International Airport Guide: Everything You Need to Know

If you’re planning a vacation in the Philippines, Manila will likely be your first stop as it’s the country’s capital city and is well-connected to major airports worldwide. Most prominent international airlines offer regular service to Manila, making it a convenient and accessible destination for travelers from all corners of the globe. If you’re looking for cheap flights to Manila or want to know more about this bustling transportation hub, you’ve come to the right place. From terminal information and ground transportation options to dining and shopping recommendations, our guide will help you make the most of your time at Manila International Airport.

The capital is well connected via air and land thanks to the country’s capital city having two international airports: Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) and Clark International Airport (CAL). NAIA is located in Taguig, while CAL is situated in Pampanga.

Manila Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), also known as Manila International Airport, Manila Philippines Airport, or Manila Airport, or in Filipino: Paliparang Pandaigdig ng Ninoy Aquino, is the busiest airport in the Philippines. Find out everything you need about this bustling airport, which serves over 40 million passengers annually.

About Manila International Airport

Manila International Airport serves Manila with international and domestic routes within the Philippines. The Ninoy Aquino International Airport gets its name from Senator Benigno Ninoy Aquino Junior. No matter which part of the world you?re flying from, it?s not difficult to find cheap flight deals for Manila. For useful tips on booking international flights, read this blog,? What is the Best Way to Book International Flights??

The airport is ~4.3 mi (7 km) south of Manila City. Getting to NAIA from various parts of Metro Manila is relatively straightforward. Furthermore, there are several VIP lounges at the airport for business and first-class passengers and holders of certain credit cards.

Additionally, terminals 1, 2, and 3 have duty-free shops and dining facilities, including a food court. All four terminals have free, unlimited Wi-Fi access. Moreover, some terminals have Christian chapels and Muslim prayer rooms. For emergencies, luggage storage rooms and sleeping facilities are available in some terminals.

Manila is Accessible by Land and Sea As well

You?ll have many options for those heading to the Philippines via land. The easiest way would be to take a bus from Manila to the provinces, such as from Manila to La Union or Bataan, and then to the provinces. You?ll want to ensure you book your bus ticket in advance, as buses tend to fill up quickly during peak travel seasons, especially on weekends.

For those looking to travel by sea, you?ll want to take a ferry from Subic, Olongapo, or Zamboanga to Manila. These ferries, which start from and return to these ports of call, are the most popular way to travel to Manila via sea, but they?re also more expensive than other ferry options.

Airlines That Fly to and From NAIA

Manila International Airport is a hub for Philippine Airlines, PAL Express, AirAsia Philippines, Cebgo, and Cebu Pacific.

Other airlines that use NAIA Airport are:

Moreover, find out the best economy airlines that fly to the Philippines.

Flying Time to Manila From Major International Destinations

Here are estimated flying times to Manila from some major international destinations:

• Los Angeles: 12-14 hours
• New York: 18-20 hours (with one stop)
• London: 14-16 hours (with one stop)
• Paris: 14-16 hours (with one stop)
• Dubai: 8-9 hours
• Sydney: 7-8 hours
• Singapore: 3-4 hours
• Tokyo: 4-5 hours
• Hong Kong: 1-2 hours
• Seoul: 4-5 hoursIt?s important to note that these are just estimates and may vary depending on wind patterns and weather conditions. Flight times may also vary depending on the airline, route, and the number of stops involved. It?s always good to check with your airline for the most up-to-date flight schedules and estimated flying times.You can also call one of our asaptickets travel experts to book the cheapest flight deal available, who can guide you through booking your flight according to your schedule and priorities, or head to our website for more deals and offers to explore.

Terminals at NAIA

Manila Airport Terminal 1

Manila International Airport Guide – Terminal 1 Check-in Hall

This terminal is the oldest and largest of the four. It was inaugurated in 1981 and has since undergone several renovations and upgrades. 

Terminal 1 at NAIA serves most international flights to and from Manila. All international flights are serviced here except for flights operated by Cebu Pacific Air, PAL Express, Philippine Airlines, All Nippon Airways,  Emirates Airline, Singapore Airlines, and Cathay Pacific Airways. The terminal was renovated in 2014.

In addition, if you have connecting flights in other terminals, you can take a free airport shuttle service to Terminals 2, 3, and 4, running 24 hours a day

Here are some of the amenities available at Terminal 1:

• Duty-free shops sell a wide range of goods, including alcohol, tobacco, perfumes, and chocolates.
• A selection of restaurants, cafes, and fast food outlets offering both local and international cuisine.
• Currency exchange services, ATMs, and banks.
• Lounges for premium passengers, including Philippine Airlines’ Mabuhay Lounge and Cathay Pacific’s lounge.

Manila Airport Terminal 2 (Centennial Terminal)

Manila International Airport Guide – Terminal 2 Departure Hall

Terminal 2 at NAIA is only used by Philippine Airlines for international and domestic routes. You will find the international section on the left side, and on the right is the domestic area. Arrivals are on the first floor, and departures are on the second floor.

Here are some of the amenities available at Terminal 2:

• Duty-free shops sell a range of products, including local handicrafts and souvenirs.
• A selection of restaurants, cafes, and fast food outlets, including Jollibee, a popular Filipino fast food chain.
• Currency exchange services, ATMs, and banks.
• Philippine Airlines? Mabuhay Lounge offers a range of amenities, including showers, business facilities, and food and beverage services.

Manila Airport Terminal 3

Manila International Airport Guide – Terminal 3 Check-in Hall

Terminal 3 at NAIA is used for international and domestic flights. Terminal 3 is the newest and most modern of the four terminals. Terminal 3 serves as the hub for Cebu Pacific, the largest low-cost carrier in the Philippines. Remember that arrivals are on the first floor, and departures are on the third floor.

Here are some of the amenities available at Terminal 3:

• A wide range of shopping options, including duty-free stores, souvenir shops, and local and international brands such as Adidas and Uniqlo.
• Numerous dining options, including fast food outlets, coffee shops, and restaurants serving both local and international cuisine.
• Currency exchange services, ATMs, and banks.
• A prayer room, and a medical clinic.
• Lounges for premium passengers, including Philippine Airlines? Mabuhay Lounge and Cathay Pacific?s lounge.

Manila Airport Terminal 4 (Manila Domestic Passenger Terminal)

Manila International Airport Guide – Terminal 4. Photo: Josh Lim

Formerly known as the Domestic Terminal, it was built in the 1960s and has undergone several renovations and upgrades. 

Terminal 4 at NAIA is the smallest and serves only domestic flights with smaller airplanes. The local carriers AirSWIFT, Cebgo, Philippine Air Asia, and Skyjet operate from Terminal 4.

Here are some of the amenities available at Terminal 4:

• A small selection of shops and restaurants, including a convenience store and a cafe.
• Currency exchange services, ATMs, and banks.

Inter-Terminal Shuttle Bus

The Inter-Terminal Shuttle Bus is a free shuttle service at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) in Manila, Philippines. The shuttle bus provides convenient transportation between the four passenger terminals of the airport, allowing passengers to transfer from one terminal to another without having to exit the airport and re-enter through security.

The shuttle bus service runs 24 hours daily, with buses departing from each terminal every 15 to 30 minutes. The buses are air-conditioned and wheelchair-accessible, making them suitable for all passengers, including those with special needs. The shuttle bus service is operated by Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA), the government agency responsible for managing and operating NAIA.

Passengers can easily locate the shuttle bus stops at each terminal, which are located outside the arrival and departure areas. The shuttle bus stops are marked with signs and are staffed by attendants who can provide information and assistance to passengers. The shuttle bus service is a convenient way for passengers to transfer between terminals, especially for those who have connecting flights that depart from a different terminal than their arrival.

Airport Lounges Amenities and How to Access Them

Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) in Manila, Philippines, offers a variety of lounges for passengers to relax and unwind before their flights. These lounges are available to passengers flying in premium classes or members of loyalty programs, credit card companies, or lounge networks.

Here is an overview of the lounges available at NAIA:

• Philippine Airlines Mabuhay Lounge – Located in Terminal 2, the Philippine Airlines Mabuhay Lounge is available to passengers flying in Business Class and members of the airline’s loyalty program, Mabuhay Miles. The lounge features comfortable seating, complimentary food and drinks, Wi-Fi, and a business center.

• Philippine Airlines Mabuhay Lounge Annex – Located in Terminal 2, the Mabuhay Lounge Annex is available to passengers flying in Premium Economy Class and members of Mabuhay Miles. The lounge features comfortable seating, complimentary food and drinks, Wi-Fi, and a business center.

• Sky View Lounge – Located in Terminal 3, the Sky View Lounge is available to passengers flying in premium classes on select airlines and members of several lounge networks and credit card companies. The lounge features comfortable seating, complimentary food and drinks, Wi-Fi, and a business center.

• PAGSS Lounge – Located in Terminal 1, the PAGSS Lounge is available to passengers flying in premium classes on select airlines and members of several lounge networks and credit card companies. The lounge features comfortable seating, complimentary food and drinks, Wi-Fi, and a business center.

• The Wings Transit Lounge – Located in Terminal 3, The Wings Transit Lounge is available to all passengers, regardless of airline or class of travel. The lounge features comfortable seating, shower facilities, Wi-Fi, and various food and drinks for purchase.

• Plaza Premium Lounge – Located in Terminal 1, the Plaza Premium Lounge is available to passengers flying in premium classes on select airlines and members of several lounge networks and credit card companies. The lounge features comfortable seating, complimentary food and drinks, Wi-Fi, and a business center.

In addition to these lounges, several airlines also have lounges in the different terminals of NAIA. These lounges are available to passengers flying in premium classes on those airlines.

Dining Areas in Ninoy Aquino International Airport

Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) in Manila, Philippines, offers passengers a wide range of dining options in its food courts across its four terminals. The food courts at NAIA offer a variety of local and international cuisine, catering to travelers’ diverse tastes and preferences. Here is an overview of the food courts in NAIA:

• Terminal 1 Food Court – Located on the ground floor of Terminal 1, the food court offers a range of dining options, including fast food, Filipino cuisine, and international cuisine. The food court also has several cafes and bakeries and a convenience store for snacks and other essentials.

• Terminal 2 Food Court – Located on the second floor of Terminal 2, the food court offers a variety of fast food and Filipino cuisine options. There is also a coffee shop and a convenience store for quick snacks and essentials.

• Terminal 3 Food Court – Located on the fourth floor of Terminal 3, the food court offers a wide variety of dining options, including fast food, Filipino cuisine, and international cuisine. There are also several cafes and bakeries and a convenience store for snacks and other essentials.

The NAIA Terminal 3 food court is located on the fourth level of the terminal and is easily accessible via elevators and escalators. The food court features a wide range of options, from fast food chains to sit-down restaurants, offering a variety of dishes to suit different tastes and preferences.

Some popular fast food chains in the food court include Jollibee, McDonald’s, KFC, and Chowking, which offer quick and easy meal options. Sit-down restaurants provide a more relaxed dining experience, such as the Filipino restaurant Gerry’s Grill, the Japanese restaurant Hanamaruken, and the Italian restaurant Parmigiano.

Aside from these popular food options, local food stalls also serve traditional Filipino dishes, such as adobo, sinigang, and lechon. These food stalls allow passengers to experience local cuisine and explore the flavors of the Philippines.

• Terminal 4 Food Court – Located on the second floor of Terminal 4, the food court offers a range of fast food options, Filipino cuisine, and other international options.

The food courts at NAIA offer a range of options to suit all tastes and budgets. From fast food to full-service restaurants, passengers can choose from various cuisines, including Filipino, Chinese, Japanese, American, and more. Many of the restaurants offer vegetarian and halal options as well.

The food courts also provide various seating options, from fast-food-style seating to more comfortable and spacious dining areas. The food courts are generally open 24 hours a day, giving travelers plenty of options, regardless of their flight schedule.

Popular Tourists Spots to Visit

There are several exciting places to visit near the airport for tourists with layovers or short stays in Manila. Here are some of the top tourist destinations to explore:

• Intramuros – Known as the “Walled City,” Intramuros is a historic district located in the heart of Manila, just 7 kilometers from the airport. Built during the Spanish colonial period, Intramuros features well-preserved walls, gates, and buildings from the 16th century, including the Manila Cathedral, San Agustin Church, and Fort Santiago.

• Rizal Park – Also known as Luneta Park, Rizal Park is a 60-hectare urban park located about 9 kilometers from NAIA. The park features gardens, fountains, monuments, and a large lagoon. It’s a popular spot for picnics, jogging, and cultural events and is home to the Rizal Monument, which honors the Philippines’ national hero.
• • National Museum of the Philippines – The National Museum is just a few kilometers from NAIA and features a vast collection of art, archaeology, natural history, and ethnography. Highlights include the Spoliarium by Juan Luna, a painting that won a gold medal at the 1884 Madrid Exposition, and the Balangay boat, a pre-colonial vessel discovered in 1976.
  • Mall of Asia – The Mall of Asia (MOA) is one of the largest shopping centers in the world, located about 4 kilometers from NAIA. It features hundreds of retail stores, restaurants, and entertainment options, including an IMAX theater and an indoor ice skating rink.
  • Resorts World Manila – If you’re looking for entertainment and gaming, Resorts World Manila is a popular destination just a few kilometers from the airport. It features a casino, theater, shopping, dining, and a range of hotels.
  • Bonifacio Global City – Also known as BGC, this modern and upscale commercial district is about 8 kilometers from NAIA. It features a range of shopping, dining, and entertainment options and several parks and art installations.These are just a few exciting places to explore near the Ninoy Aquino International Airport. With so much to see and do, visitors to Manila can make the most of their layovers or short stays by exploring this vibrant city’s rich culture, history, and entertainment.To plan your perfect itinerary, get more ideas from this blog, Top 5 Best Philippines Guide Books.

Contact Information

Lost and Found

iid@miaa.gov.ph ? +63 2 877 1109 local 2870

Immigration Bureau

xinfo@immigration.gov.ph ? +63 2 879 6017 / +63 2 879 6018

Passenger Relations

pao@miaa.gov.ph ? +63 2 877 1109 local 3522 / 730

Terminal Security

tss@miaa.gov.ph ? +63 2 877-1109 local 2814

In conclusion, Manila International Airport is a modern and bustling transportation hub that provides convenient and easy access to the Philippines. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, our Manila International Airport guide has equipped you with everything you need to know for a hassle-free and enjoyable experience. And the best part is that you can fly to Manila on a budget, as the airport offers cheap flights from many destinations worldwide. So don’t hesitate to book your next trip to Manila and explore all that this amazing city and its surrounding islands have to offer!

Additionally, we highly recommend seeking the assistance of reliable travel agents such as ASAPTickets to find the best flight deals to Manila. They can provide valuable insights into the latest discounts, promotions, and travel packages to help you save money and get the most out of your trip. With their expertise and knowledge, you can find the cheapest flights to Manila without sacrificing comfort or convenience. So consider contacting a trusted travel agent and planning your budget-friendly trip to this exciting destination today!