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6 Things to Know About the NAIA Terminal Reassignments
In this article:
- NAIA Will Implement Changes in Phases
- NNIC is Renovating NAIA Terminal 4
- NAIA Terminal 2 Serves Domestic Flights Only
- Cebu Pacific's "5J" Flights Remain at NAIA Terminal 3
- Philippine Airlines, AirAsia, and Other International Airlines Remain at Their Current Terminals
- Navigate NAIA with These Tips
- Stay Updated During NAIA’s Upgrades
Manila's notorious traffic means that arriving at the wrong NAIA terminal can cost you precious time, potentially causing you to miss your flight. That's why when news of the terminal reassignments spread on social media, it led to widespread anxiety and confusion among travelers.
Don't panic! This guide provides a breakdown of the current changes and the planned reassignments to help you stay ahead.
1. NAIA Will Implement Changes in Phases
In September 2024, New NAIA Infra Corp (NNIC) assumed responsibility for managing NAIA terminals and giving the airport its much-needed makeover. When NNIC revealed plans to upgrade facilities, airline reassignment topped its priorities to address overcrowding at the terminals.
Many people assumed that airline reassignments would take effect immediately. NNIC clarified the proposal will unfold gradually over the next three years. So far, the airline reassignments only affect one NAIA terminal.
2. NNIC is Renovating NAIA Terminal 4
AirSWIFT operates smaller aircrafts like this turboprop plane.
Image credit: AirSWIFT Facebook
The "old domestic airport," or NAIA Terminal 4, is the first to undergo safety and facility upgrades. NNIC has suspended airport operations here until the planned reopening in February 2025.
As a result, the following airlines from Terminal 4 now operate at Terminal 2.
- AirSWIFT (airline code: T6)
- Cebu Pacific's CebGO (airline code: DG)
- Sunlight Air (airline code: 2R)
NAIA Terminal 2 Serves Domestic Flights Only
The three airline transferees from NAIA Terminal 4 join the following airlines at Terminal 2:
- AirAsia Philippines (Z2)
- Philippine Airlines (PR)
- PAL Express (2P)
- RoyalAir Philippines (RW)
4. Cebu Pacific's "5J" Flights Remain at NAIA Terminal 3
Cebu Pacific’s primary fleet stays at NAIA Terminal 3.
Cebu Pacific's domestic and international flights with the airline code "5J" will continue to operate at NAIA Terminal 3. You'll spot "5J" on your flight number.
If your flight number shows "DG,” you're taking CebGO, another Cebu Pacific carrier. You should head to Terminal 2 if that’s the case.
5. Philippine Airlines, AirAsia, and Other International Airlines Remain at Their Current Terminals
Philippine Airlines and AirAsia flights continue to depart from and arrive at their original NAIA terminals. Here’s where you’ll find them.
Philippine Airlines (PR)
- International Flights: Terminal 1
- Domestic Flights: Terminal 2
AirAsia Philippines (Z2)
- International Flights: Terminal 3
- Domestic Flights: Terminal 2
If you're flying with any other international airline, your terminal remains the same. But it's always better to double-check with the airline before you leave for the airport.
6. Navigate NAIA with These Tips
NAIA’s social channel is now @newnaiaph on Facebook and X.
Be prepared with these tips for a smoother NAIA experience.
- Bookmark NAIA's new homepage. This new website monitors delayed flights or open check-in counters.
- Follow your airline's official channels and download its app for real-time airline announcements and travel advisories, especially if you're on the road.
- Allot an extra hour to transfer between NAIA terminals. NAIA offers free, 24/7 shuttle buses for passengers with connecting flights between terminals. Just present your plane ticket or boarding pass.
- Terminal 1: Arrival Curbside (You'll see a transfer service sign.)
- Terminal 2: Arrival Curbside at Bay 19
- Terminal 3: Arrival Level for Terminal Transfer
- Arrive early to avoid delays. Plan to be there three hours before an international flight departs and two hours before a domestic flight. Top tip: Plan ahead and use Grab’s Advance Booking service, so you don’t have to worry about getting there on time. Then, pay conveniently through GCash.
Stay Updated During NAIA’s Upgrades
Modernizing the Philippines' busiest airport is just starting, so check for updates regularly. NAIA terminals provide free WiFi, but treat it as a backup. Use your Globe Traveler SIM if you’re a tourist. At ₱1,500 (US$25.5), you get a 5G SIM with 80 GB for 30 days. Or opt for a Globe Prepaid Traveler eSIM.
If you’re headed overseas, don’t forget to get a data roaming promo, so you can travel without worries. Activate your roaming through the GlobeOne app. Remember, stay informed, plan ahead, and navigate NAIA terminals with ease.