Manila MNL: Departures and guide

Flying from/to Ninoy Aquino International Airport

Get straight from Ninoy Aquino International Airport to the city centre without dither—booking your ticket in advance means you can zoom through the airport and be on your way to the city. We, at Omio, have collected information on the facilities that you have after landing, and the main places worth stopping at in the city centre to make planning your trip easier.

Arriving at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL)

Ninoy Aquino Airport, the Philippines' main passenger airport, serves millions of passengers per year. Once known as Manila International Airport, today Ninoy Aquino is still the main airport for international travelers looking to discover the Philippines' capital.  Manila, the capital of the Philippines for the last 400 years, is the world's most densely populated city. It's known for its vibrant street culture and great nightlife.  Ninoy Aquino Airport is open 24 hours a day, with sleeping pods available in sections of the airport. A range of national and international airlines operate in the airport, including Philippine Airlines, Turkish Airlines, and Air Canada. 

What's the best way to get from Ninoy Aquino International Airport​ to the city center?

There's a variety of public and private transport options running from Ninoy Aquino International Airport​ to the city center​. The most convenient public transport option from the airport to Manila is the UBE Express airport bus. The UBE Express departs continuously from Terminal 3, and from Terminals 1 and 2 between 08:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m.  Travelers who arrive at Terminal 3 may find it convenient to board bus route 2 to Taft MRT station, where they can then connect to the metro line to Manila city center. Alternatively, travelers can hail a yellow or white taxi outside the airport, or order a Grab, the Philippines' equivalent of Uber. 

How far is the city center from the airport?

Ninoy Aquino International Airport​ is 8 miles (12 kilometers) from the city center. The cheapest option is to take the number 2 bus and then board the metro at the Taft MRT station. Usually, this route takes 1 hour and 30 minutes. Travelers who take the UBE Express Airport Bus can expect to travel between 1 and 2 hours to reach Manila city center. Usually, it's only slightly cheaper than an equivalent taxi service, so it may not be worth the savings for people preferring to settle in sooner at their hotel. The fastest way to reach Manila from the airport is by taxi. There are yellow or white cabs waiting outside the airport for passengers, or cabs can be ordered using the Grab taxi app. Usually, it takes 30 minutes to get to Manila by taxi.

What services are there at Ninoy Aquino International Airport​?

Both adventurous travelers and those seeking standard airport fare will enjoy the services at Ninoy Aquino International Airport​​. Free WiFi is available in all terminals of the airport. Banks and currency exchanges are onsite for passengers who have to withdraw or exchange money on arrival.  Smoking areas are accessible in all terminals. There's a medical center, and pharmacies can be found across the airport.  Business-class travelers can benefit from access to the VIP lounge. Inside, they'll find complimentary international newspapers, coffee, tea, cable TV, and dining services. Travelers can enjoy an extensive range of shopping and dining services, including Western, Filipino, and popular Asian eateries. Duty-free shops are available for travelers wanting to pick up last-minute souvenirs. 

How accessible is the route for those with limited mobility?

There's barrier-free access at Ninoy Aquino International Airport​ for passengers with disabilities. Ramps are fitted throughout the airport to allow ease of access in different areas of the airport, from check-in, through security, and to boarding. Special assistance can be provided by airlines if travelers contact them up to 48 hours in advance, to provide assistance through the terminals. Special phone services and bank counters are available, as are accessible toilets. 

Local tips: what to know before flying to Ninoy Aquino International Airport​

Travelers arriving at Ninoy Aquino International Airport​ will find it's no different than other busy international airports. ​Most international flights will arrive at Terminal 1. Security is thorough, and passengers are encouraged to be polite and courteous. Once passengers have advanced through security, they can take a free shuttle bus to other terminals. The shuttle is useful for passengers wishing to travel to Manila via the UBE Express bus or bus route 2, which depart from Terminal 3. The shuttle can take up to 1 hour due to traffic.  Travelers from the US are not typically required to present a visa on arrival in the Philippines, on the condition that they have a return flight within 30 days of arrival. Many European countries have a similar arrangement, but travelers should check in advance with their consulate. All passengers will have to fill in an arrival card detailing the specifics of their stay in the Philippines.