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Got a trip coming up? Start it right by heading to the correct NAIA terminal.
Whether you’re seeing family or exploring a new destination, a smooth airport experience sets the tone for your entire journey.
But with news of terminal reassignments making the rounds on social media, it’s understandable if you’re feeling a bit unsure about where to go.
Staying on track is easier than you think. This guide breaks down the latest updates and upcoming changes.
NAIA Changes Rolling Out in Phases
In September 2024, New NAIA Infra Corp (NNIC) took over the management of NAIA, kicking off long-awaited upgrades across the airport.
One of the biggest priorities? Reassigning airlines to ease congestion and make the overall experience smoother for travelers.
At first, many thought these changes would happen all at once. But NNIC clarified that the rollout will be gradual, happening over the next three years. For now, only one terminal is affected.
Fast forward to 2026, and the goal is simple: faster check-ins, smoother boarding, and less crowding. Here’s what’s changing.
Airlines Moving to Terminal 3
- Air China
- China Eastern
- Vietnam Airlines
- Royal Brunei
- Shenzhen Airlines
- Japan Airlines
Airlines Moving to Terminal 1
- AirAsia Philippines (international flights)
Terminal 4: Gone for Good
Image credit: AirSWIFT Facebook
Once known as the “old domestic airport,” NAIA Terminal 4 has officially been closed and demolished due to safety concerns. But NNIC is building a new terminal that will eventually handle AirAsia Philippines’ domestic flights.
In the meantime, airlines that used to operate from Terminal 4 have been moved.
CebGO (DG) and AirSWIFT (T6) flights no longer operate from NAIA. Instead, all flights for both airlines now depart from and arrive at Clark International Airport (CRK).
Additionally, all AirSWIFT flights are now operated by CebGO. If you're flying on a former AirSWIFT route, your flight will use the DG flight code instead of T6 and will be announced as a CebGO flight at the airport.
Meanwhile, Sunlight Air (airline code: 2R) operates from NAIA Terminal 2.
Terminal 2: For Domestic Flights Only
With these updates, Terminal 2 now serves as the main hub for domestic flights.
It’s currently home to the following domestic airlines:
- AirAsia Philippines (Z2)
- Philippine Airlines (PR)
- PAL Express (2P)
- RoyalAir Philippines (RW)
CebPac “5J” Flights: Still at Terminal 3
Flying with Cebu Pacific? Here’s a quick way to know where to go.
If your flight number includes “5J,” you’re on a Cebu Pacific flight. Both domestic and international flights depart from NAIA Terminal 3.
If you see “DG” instead, that means you’re flying with CebGO, Cebu Pacific’s sister airline. All CebGO flights depart from Clark International Airport (CRK) instead of NAIA, so be sure to head to Clark for your flight.
PAL, AirAsia, and Others: Still at Their Current Terminals
If you’re flying with Philippine Airlines or AirAsia, you can stick to the same terminals you’re used to.
Philippine Airlines (PR)
- International Flights: Terminal 1
- Domestic Flights: Terminal 2
AirAsia Philippines (Z2)
- International Flights: Terminal 3
- Domestic Flights: Terminal 2
Other international airlines are also staying put for now. Just make sure to check your flight details before heading out to the airport.
6 Tips for Getting Around NAIA
A little planning goes a long way. Follow these tips to make your airport trip easier.
- Stay updated before you go. Bookmark the New NAIA Infra Corp website. It has real-time updates on delayed flights and open check-in counters.
- Follow your airline for updates. Check your airline’s official pages or download their app for live announcements and travel advisories, especially while you’re on the way.
- Allow extra time for terminal transfers. If you need to move between terminals, set aside at least an extra hour. NAIA offers free 24/7 shuttle buses for connecting passengers. Just show your ticket or boarding pass.
Here’s where to catch them.
- Terminal 1: Arrival curbside (look for the transfer service sign)
- Terminal 2: Arrival curbside at Bay 19
- Terminal 3: Arrival level for terminal transfer
- Plan your ride ahead of time. Booking your ride with Grab’s Advance Booking service can help you avoid last-minute stress. You can also pay conveniently through GCash.
Pro Tip: You can enjoy up to 15% OFF when you spend at least ₱250, with a maximum discount of ₱50 per redemption when you avail any Go+ Promo. You can also use your Globe Rewards points to redeem Grab vouchers and other travel perks.
- Arrive early. Give yourself plenty of time at the airport. Aim for three hours before an international flight and two hours before a domestic one.
Staying Updated During NAIA’s Upgrades
Upgrades at the Philippines’ busiest airport are just getting started, so it’s a good idea to check for updates before your trip. While NAIA terminals have free WiFi, public networks aren’t always the most secure for accessing sensitive accounts or making important transactions.
Connecting with your own mobile data can give you added peace of mind. You can choose a prepaid promo that lets you control your usage or top up as needed, or a postpaid plan that offers the convenience of consistent connectivity wherever you go.
If you’re visiting the Philippines, staying connected can make your trip a lot easier and more secure. A traveler SIM can give you reliable mobile data, so you can avoid relying on public WiFi when checking bookings, accessing maps, or managing important accounts on the go.
Heading overseas? It also helps to have a data roaming promo ready before you fly, ideally pre-purchased and activated ahead of time, so you can stay connected without interruptions. You can easily manage this through the GlobeOne app.
As updates continue across NAIA, staying informed and connected lets you move through every terminal more smoothly and confidently, making every trip a little easier. Safe travels!
