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Manilla Ninoy Aquino Airport MNL

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MNL Airport Insights & Guide

Key MNL Airport Topics:

Getting to Know MNL Airport

Discover Manila Ninoy Aquino Airport (MNL), the Philippines' main international entry point, nestled just outside the city's heart. Renowned for its unique "Butterfly" terminal design, MNL facilitates a seamless journey for millions annually. This concise guide equips you with essential information for a smooth airport experience, whether you're arriving or departing.

Our streamlined guide covers everything from flight status, terminal details, to parking and dining options, ensuring a hassle-free transit. Dive into our Comprehensive Airport Guide for more insights and travel tips.

WATCH VIDEO: Take a brief look at an aircraft taxiing at Manila's Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA):

Manila Ninoy Aquino Airport has four terminals: Terminal 1, Terminal 2, Terminal 3, and Terminal 4. Terminal 1 has 12 gates and serves international airlines such as Delta, Emirates, and Japan Airlines. Terminal 2 has 12 gates and serves Philippine Airlines and PAL Express. Terminal 3 has 20 gates and serves Cebu Pacific, AirAsia, and most international airlines. Terminal 4 has 8 gates and serves domestic airlines such as AirSWIFT and SkyJet.

To navigate the airport terminals, follow the signs and directions to your airline's designated terminal. Each terminal has its own check-in counters, security checkpoints, and boarding gates. If you need assistance, there are information desks located throughout the airport, and airport staff are available to help you.

Use our interactive airport map to locate food, services, and airline departure gates. The map is updated in real-time and can help you find your way around the airport quickly and easily.

Connecting Between Terminals

Manila Ninoy Aquino Airport has four terminals: Terminal 1, Terminal 2, Terminal 3, and Terminal 4. To get between terminals, passengers can use the airport shuttle bus service, which is available 24/7 and runs every 15 minutes. The shuttle bus is free of charge and can be found outside each terminal's arrival area. The travel time between terminals is around 15 minutes.

If you prefer to walk, the terminals are interconnected by covered walkways. The walking distance between Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 is around 300 meters, while the distance between Terminal 2 and Terminal 3 is around 600 meters. The distance between Terminal 3 and Terminal 4 is around 1.2 kilometers. Walking times may vary depending on your pace and the amount of luggage you are carrying.

Frequent Flier Tips

To help make your experience at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL) as smooth and enjoyable as possible, we’ve gathered the best advice and tips from MNL-based frequent travelers, flight attendants, pilots, and airport staff. Their first-hand insights are sure to provide you with valuable guidance. Here’s what they have to say:

Navigating the Terminals

"MNL has four terminals, and knowing which one your airline operates from can save you a lot of time. Terminal 1 is for international flights, Terminal 2 is exclusively for Philippine Airlines, Terminal 3 handles both international and domestic flights, and Terminal 4 is for domestic flights by budget carriers." — Maria G., Pasay, Philippines, August 2023

"If you need to transfer between terminals, the airport shuttle service is reliable but can get crowded during peak hours. Plan for at least an hour to move between terminals, especially during rush hour." — John P., Makati, Philippines, July 2023

Getting To/From the City

"The airport is about 7 kilometers from the city center, but traffic can be unpredictable. Using the NAIA Expressway can save you a lot of time, especially during rush hours. Grab rides are also a convenient option." — Liza R., Parañaque, Philippines, September 2023

"If you're on a budget, the UBE Express buses are a good option. They connect the airport to various points in Metro Manila and are quite comfortable." — Carlos M., Pasig, Philippines, October 2023

Parking

"Parking at MNL can be challenging, especially during peak travel seasons. The multi-level car park at Terminal 3 is the most convenient if you’re flying out of that terminal. It’s best to arrive early to find a good spot." — Angela D., Taguig, Philippines, November 2023

"For long-term parking, the Park 'N Fly service near Terminal 1 offers a shuttle to the terminals and is a good option if you’re leaving your car for several days." — Roberto S., Manila, Philippines, December 2023

Inside the Airport

"Terminal 3 has the best selection of food and shopping options. If you have a long layover, head there for a variety of dining choices and some last-minute shopping." — Bianca T., Quezon City, Philippines, January 2024

"If you’re looking for a quiet place to relax, the lounges in Terminal 1 and Terminal 3 are worth the entry fee. They offer comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi, and complimentary snacks and drinks." — Mark L., Mandaluyong, Philippines, February 2024

Avoiding Delays and Stress

"Security lines can get long, especially in the mornings and late evenings. Arrive at least three hours before your international flight to avoid any last-minute stress." — Jenny V., Las Piñas, Philippines, March 2024

"Keep an eye on flight status updates. Delays are not uncommon, especially during the rainy season. The MIAA app is helpful for real-time updates on your flight." — Alex B., Cavite, Philippines, April 2024

"If you’re traveling during peak holiday seasons, consider checking in online and using the self-service kiosks to save time. It can make the whole process much smoother." — Grace C., San Juan, Philippines, May 2024

iFly Tip: Access a variety of travel topics quickly by visiting our air travel reference guide.

Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers

At Manila Ninoy Aquino Airport, passengers can be picked up and dropped off at designated areas outside each terminal. Curbside parking is not allowed, and vehicles are not allowed to wait or park in front of the terminals. This is strictly enforced by airport security, and violators may be fined or towed.

To avoid congestion and traffic, the airport provides cell-phone waiting areas where drivers can wait for their passengers to arrive. These waiting areas are located near each terminal and are free of charge. Drivers can park their vehicles and wait for their passengers to call or text them when they are ready to be picked up. Once the passenger is ready, the driver can proceed to the designated pick-up area outside the terminal.

Parking Facilities & Options

Manilla Ninoy Aquino Airport offers a variety of parking options to suit all travelers' needs. There are several parking lots and garages located near the airport terminals, including Terminal 1, Terminal 2, Terminal 3, and Terminal 4.

For those who need to wait for arriving passengers, cell phone waiting areas are available near the terminals. These areas are free of charge and provide a convenient place to park and wait until your party has arrived and retrieved their luggage.

Handicapped parking is available in all parking lots and garages. Designated spaces are located near the elevators and shuttle stops for easy access to the terminals. If you require assistance, airport staff are available to help you with your luggage and guide you to the appropriate parking area.

Off-airport parking is a great economical option for travelers who want to save money on parking fees. Several off-airport parking lots are located near the airport and offer shuttle service to and from the terminals. These lots typically offer lower rates than on-airport parking and provide a convenient alternative for travelers.

Transportation Options

Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL) offers a variety of ground transportation options for travelers:

  • Car Rentals: Major car rental providers such as Avis, Budget, and Hertz have rental facilities located at the airport. Travelers can easily rent a car upon arrival and explore the city at their own pace. It is advisable to book in advance, especially during peak travel times, to ensure availability.
  • Taxis: There are designated taxi drop-off areas outside of each terminal. Fares are based on a metered system and vary depending on the destination. It is recommended to only take official airport taxis to ensure safety and avoid scams. The average fare to the city center is approximately PHP 300-500, depending on traffic conditions.
  • Ride-Share Services: Services such as Grab and Uber are available at the airport. However, there are restrictions on where these services can pick up passengers. Travelers should check the app for pickup areas and any restrictions before requesting a ride. Grab is the more commonly used service in Manila.
  • Airport Shuttles: Airport shuttles operate 24/7 and pick up passengers from designated pickup areas outside of each terminal. Fares vary depending on the destination and can be purchased at the shuttle ticket counters located in the arrival halls of each terminal. This is a convenient option for those who want to avoid the hassle of finding transportation.
  • Public Transportation: The airport is connected to the city's public transportation system, making it easy to travel to various destinations. Buses and jeepneys provide affordable options for getting around. Additionally, the Manila Light Rail Transit System (LRT) and Metro Rail Transit System (MRT) offer efficient routes to different parts of the city. Tickets can be purchased at the airport or at the station. The fare for a bus ride to the city center is approximately PHP 20-50, while train fares start at PHP 15.

iFly Tip: Make your journey more enjoyable by reading our overweight passenger guide.

Airport Hotels

Whether you're looking for a place to unwind before a flight, seeking a convenient base for city exploration, or in search of a comfortable stay with amenities like free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and television facilities, we have a variety of hotel options near the airport that have got you covered. Some of them also offer additional features like round-the-clock front desk services, room service, and communal amenities to ensure a pleasant and hassle-free stay. Discover a range of accommodations, from budget-friendly lodgings to comfortable 2-star establishments, all within a short distance from the airport and key city attractions. Ready to explore? Check out our Ninoy Aquino Airport Hotels now!

Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport

MNL offers a wide range of dining and shopping options for travelers. Terminal 1 has several restaurants and cafes, including Starbucks, Jollibee, and Yellow Cab Pizza. For those looking for a quick snack, there are also several convenience stores and fast food chains such as McDonald's and Dunkin' Donuts.

Terminal 2 has a variety of dining options, including Figaro Coffee Company, KFC, and Shakey's Pizza. There are also several shops selling souvenirs, clothing, and electronics. Terminal 3 has a good selection of restaurants, including Burger King, Chowking, and Krispy Kreme. There are also several duty-free shops selling chocolates, liquor, and cosmetics.

If you're traveling through Terminal 4, you'll find a few cafes and snack bars, including Dunkin' Donuts and KFC. There are also a few shops selling books, magazines, and souvenirs.

Some recommended restaurants and stores at MNL Airport include Starbucks in Terminal 1, Figaro Coffee Company in Terminal 2, and Burger King in Terminal 3. For shopping, check out the duty-free shops in Terminal 3 or the souvenir shops in Terminal 2.

The locations of all food, shops, and services at the airport can be found using iFly's interactive map.

Passenger Services

  • Free Wi-Fi: MNL Airport provides complimentary Wi-Fi access throughout all four terminals, ensuring travelers can stay connected during their time at the airport.
  • Lost and Found: If you misplace an item during your journey, the lost and found office is located in Terminal 1 for your convenience.
  • Children's Play Area: To keep young travelers entertained, MNL Airport features a designated children's play area in Terminal 3, equipped with a variety of toys and games.
  • Special-Needs Services: The airport offers wheelchair assistance, accessible restrooms, and other services for passengers with special needs. It’s recommended to notify your airline in advance if you require any assistance.
  • ATM: ATMs are available throughout the airport, providing access to banking services while you’re at the airport.
  • First Aid Station: In case of a medical emergency, a medical clinic is located in Terminal 1, and first aid stations are available in all terminals. Airport staff are also available to assist with arranging transportation to a nearby hospital if needed.

Flight Status Info

As an air traveler, it is important to stay updated on the status of your flight. At Manila Ninoy Aquino Airport, there are several ways to check for flight status information.

One way is to use the in-airport flight displays (FIDS) located throughout the terminals. These displays provide real-time updates on flight departures, arrivals, delays, and gate information.

Another way is to download your airline's mobile phone app. Many airlines offer push notifications, text messages, and email alerts for flight status updates, including departure delays, cancelations, and gate changes.

Passengers can also check the status of their flight departure at Manila Ninoy Aquino Airport by visiting the flight departures page on ifly.com, which provides real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information.

iFly Tip: Shorter lines and less hassle? Check out the TSA PreCheck Guide for more details.

Airport Facts & Stats

  • Location: Manila Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL) is located in Manila, the capital city of the Philippines.
  • Terminals: The airport has four terminals:
    • Terminal 1: Used by various international carriers.
    • Terminal 2: Exclusively used by Philippine Airlines for both domestic and international flights.
    • Terminal 3: The newest and largest terminal, serving both domestic and international flights.
    • Terminal 4: Known as the Domestic Terminal, handling only domestic flights.
  • Airlines Served: Major airlines include Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, and AirAsia Philippines. For a full list of airlines, visit the MNL Airlines Served page.
  • Passenger Traffic: The airport handles approximately 100,000 passengers daily.
  • Daily Flights: MNL sees around 800 daily flights.
  • Top Destinations: The most popular destinations served from MNL are Singapore, Hong Kong, Dubai, Seoul, and Tokyo.
  • Hub Status: Manila Ninoy Aquino International Airport is a hub for Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, and AirAsia Philippines.

Airport History

Manila Ninoy Aquino Airport, also known as NAIA, is the main international gateway to the Philippines. The airport is named after Senator Benigno Aquino Jr., who was assassinated at the airport in 1983. Here are some significant events in the airport's history:

  • 1948 - The airport was originally named Manila International Airport and was located in what is now the Villamor Air Base.
  • 1954 - The airport was moved to its current location in Pasay City.
  • 1983 - Senator Benigno Aquino Jr. was assassinated at the airport, which led to its renaming to Manila International Airport in his honor.
  • 1987 - The airport was renamed Ninoy Aquino International Airport.
  • 1991 - Terminal 2, also known as the Centennial Terminal, was opened in time for the Philippine Centennial Celebration.
  • 2013 - Terminal 3 was fully operational, increasing the airport's capacity to handle more passengers.
  • 2020 - The airport was temporarily closed for international flights due to the COVID-19 pandemic. It reopened in July 2021 with limited capacity and strict health protocols.

Today, Manila Ninoy Aquino Airport serves as the main hub for Philippine Airlines and Cebu Pacific, and welcomes millions of passengers every year.

Airport Contact Information

For more information about Manila Ninoy Aquino International Airport, please refer to the following contact details:

  • IATA Code: MNL
  • Airport Website
  • Phone: +63 2 8771 8600
  • Email: [email protected]
  • Mailing Address: Ninoy Aquino International Airport, Andrews Ave, Pasay, 1300 Metro Manila, Philippines

Note that the contact information provided here is subject to change by the airport operator(s).

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Manilla Ninoy Aquino Airport Q&A

There are four terminals: Terminal 1, Terminal 2, Terminal 3, and Terminal 4.
Terminal 1 serves international airlines such as Delta, Emirates, and Japan Airlines.
Passengers can use the free airport shuttle bus service, which runs every 15 minutes, or walk via covered walkways.
Designated areas outside each terminal are available for pick-ups and drop-offs. Curbside parking is not allowed.
Various parking lots and garages are available near each terminal, including cell phone waiting areas and off-airport parking with shuttle services.
Options include car rentals, taxis, ride-share services, airport shuttles, and public transportation like buses and trains.
Yes, there are a variety of hotel options ranging from budget-friendly lodgings to comfortable 2-star establishments.
Each terminal has a range of restaurants, cafes, and shops. Popular options include Starbucks, Jollibee, and duty-free shops.
Yes, free Wi-Fi is available throughout all four terminals.
Flight status can be checked via in-airport flight displays, airline mobile apps, or the flight departures page on ifly.com.