ULTIMATE GUIDE to Manila's Airport (Ninoy Aquino International Airport - Gateway to the Philippines)

Summary

This video offers an in-depth guide to navigating Manila's Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), addressing its outdated infrastructure and congestion. It covers the history of Manila's airports, details of NAIA's terminals, and tips for transferring between them. The video also provides advice on local transportation, currency exchange, and where to find affordable services and accommodations near the airport, aiming to make travelers' experiences more enjoyable.

Takeaways

• 😕 Manila's Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) is outdated, congested, and confusing, with long lines and aging infrastructure.
• 🌐 NAIA has a history of several airports, with Terminal 1 being the first constructed in 1948, and Terminal 3 being the newest and largest.
• 📈 The airport is located just 7 kilometers south of Manila and is surrounded by a bustling metro area with limited space for expansion.
• 🚌 There are no direct trains or walkways connecting the terminals; free shuttle buses operate hourly for transfer between terminals.
• 🛍 Terminal 3 is the largest and busiest, offering a wide range of shops, restaurants, and services.
• 🏨 Terminal 1 has an airside lodging facility with affordable rates for passengers with long layovers.
• 📶 All terminals offer two hours of free WIFI per day, and there are various internet providers with additional options.
• 💵 It's recommended for foreign visitors to get some local currency upon arrival, as many small businesses do not accept credit or debit cards.
• 🚶‍♂️ Walking between terminals is not recommended due to congestion and construction, except for a safe walk between Terminal 1 and Terminal 2.
• 🚍 There are various transportation options available from the airport, including buses, taxis, and ride-sharing services like GRAB.
• 🏢 Terminal 3 connects to Newport City via a covered overpass, offering entertainment, shopping, lodging, and dining options.

Q & A

What are some of the issues faced by passengers at Ninoy Aquino International Airport?

Some of the issues faced by passengers include long lines, aging infrastructure, and sudden power outages, as well as congestion due to the airport exceeding its designed capacity.

How many terminals does NAIA have?

NAIA has four terminals.

What is the significance of Terminal 3 at NAIA?

Terminal 3 is the newest, largest, and busiest terminal at NAIA. It serves all the airlines listed in the script and offers an expansive selection of shops, restaurants, cafes, lounges, and more.

What services are available for passengers with long layovers at NAIA?

Passengers with long layovers can use the 'Day Rooms' at the airside lodging facility on the 4th floor of Terminal 1, or the Wings Transit Lounge on Level 4 of Terminal 3 which offers capsules and private rooms for short stays.

How can passengers transfer between terminals at NAIA?

Passengers can transfer between terminals using free shuttle buses that connect all terminals, or by using the pay-to-ride UBE Express premium bus service. Walking between Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 is also an option, but walking between other terminals is not recommended.

What is the Philippines Bureau of Immigration One-Stop-Shop and where is it located?

The Philippines Bureau of Immigration One-Stop-Shop is an office located on Level 3 near the check-in area on the south side of Terminal 3, offering common immigration services including visa extensions.

What is Runway Manila and how does it benefit passengers at NAIA?

Runway Manila is a covered overpass that connects Terminal 3 to Newport City, providing passengers with quick access to entertainment, shopping, lodging, and dining options without having to navigate through busy roads.

What is the advice for foreign visitors regarding currency exchange at NAIA?

Foreign visitors are advised to get some cash upon arrival as many local businesses do not accept credit or debit card payments. They should avoid Dynamic Currency Conversion and complete transactions in local currency, Philippine pesos.

What are some of the amenities available at NAIA's Terminal 3?

Terminal 3 offers a variety of amenities including duty-free shops, restaurants, a 7/11 convenience store, and the Wings Transit Lounge for rest and relaxation.

How far is the new international airport being constructed in Bulacan from NAIA?

The script does not specify the exact distance, but it mentions that the new international airport is being constructed to the north in Bulacan.

What is the recommendation for transportation from NAIA to other parts of Manila?

The script recommends using the affordable buses that connect the airport to various destinations, taxis, or ride-sharing options like GRAB, but advises to be prepared for traffic delays.