Ninoy Aquino International Airport
Manila, Philippines · Since 1948
Last updated:
About MNL
The main airport of the Philippines serving the Metro Manila area.
Why "MNL"?
MNL stands for Manila, the capital of the Philippines. The airport is named after Benigno "Ninoy" Aquino Jr., a Philippine senator and opposition leader who was assassinated at this airport in 1983.
Terminals
Terminal 1 (International)
Terminal 1 is the original international terminal, opened in 1981. It has undergone renovations but retains its older layout. Handles international flights from legacy carriers. The terminal can feel crowded during peak hours but offers essential services and duty-free shopping.
Terminal 2 (Centennial Terminal)
Terminal 2 is the exclusive terminal for Philippine Airlines domestic and international flights. Opened in 1999, it features a distinctive curved roof design. Recently renovated with improved facilities, new lounges, and expanded dining options.
Terminal 3 (International & Domestic)
Terminal 3 is the newest and largest terminal, opened in 2008. It is the most modern facility at NAIA with the best shopping, dining, and lounge options. Handles both international and domestic flights for Cebu Pacific, AirAsia, and other carriers.
Terminal 4 (Domestic)
Terminal 4 is the smallest and most basic terminal, handling select domestic flights. Limited amenities compared to other terminals. Primarily serves budget domestic carriers and charter flights.
Minimum Connection Times (MCT)
Airlines at MNL
Showing 8 of 48 airlines. View all airlines →
Getting There & Away
Taxi
PHP 250-400 (USD 4.50-7) to Makati
30-90 min depending on traffic to city center
Public Transport
PHP 15-50 (USD 0.27-0.90)
60-120 minutes to city center
Parking at MNL
Terminal 3 Multi-Level Parking
Terminal 1 Parking Lot
Terminal 2 Parking
Newport City Parking
Airport Lounges
Philippine Airlines Mabuhay Lounge
PAL's flagship lounge in Terminal 2 with excellent Filipino cuisine including adobo, sinigang, and lechon. Comfortable seating, shower facilities in the First Class section, and a quiet zone for rest.
PAGSS Premium Lounge (T3)
The best independent lounge at NAIA, located in Terminal 3 international departures. Features Filipino and international cuisine, cocktail bar, comfortable seating, and good Wi-Fi. Recently expanded with more seating capacity.
Marhaba Lounge (T1)
International departures lounge in Terminal 1 with Filipino dishes, sandwiches, snacks, and a bar. Basic but comfortable environment. Can get crowded during peak evening departure hours.
Cebu Pacific Premium Lounge
Compact lounge in Terminal 3 domestic area for Cebu Pacific premium members. Basic food and beverage selection with comfortable seating. A quiet escape from the busy terminal.
PAGSS Lounge (T1 Domestic Arrivals)
Small but functional lounge in Terminal 1 with basic snacks, drinks, and Wi-Fi. Good for a brief rest while waiting for connecting ground transport.
Where to Stay
Connected Hotels
Belmont Hotel Manila
Connected to Terminal 3 via covered walkway at Newport City
Directly accessible from Terminal 3 through the Newport City complex. Modern rooms with city views, rooftop pool and bar, fitness center, and proximity to Resorts World Manila entertainment complex. The most convenient hotel for Terminal 3 passengers.
Nearby Hotels
Nichols Airport Hotel
3 minutes from Terminal 2, Villamor Air Base area
Basic budget hotel very close to Terminal 2. Simple but clean rooms ideal for catching an early morning flight. No frills but affordable and convenient. Fan or air-conditioned room options.
Microtel by Wyndham Mall of Asia
15 minutes from Terminal 1, near SM Mall of Asia
Affordable option near the Mall of Asia entertainment area. Clean rooms, complimentary breakfast, and good value. Airport shuttle available but not free. Great proximity to shopping and dining at SM Mall of Asia.
Holiday Inn Express Manila Newport
Newport City, 5 minutes from Terminal 3
Reliable IHG property in the Newport City complex. Complimentary Express Start breakfast, modern rooms, and easy access to Terminal 3. Good value for the location.
Marriott Hotel Manila
5 minutes from Terminal 3, Newport City complex
Luxury 5-star hotel in the Newport City complex near Terminal 3. Features multiple restaurants, outdoor pool, full spa, and direct access to Resorts World Manila. Complimentary shuttle to all NAIA terminals.
Food & Dining
Jollibee
Filipino Fast Food
The beloved Filipino fast food chain. Must-try items include Chickenjoy (crispy fried chicken), Jolly Spaghetti (sweet-style), and Yumburger. A quintessential Filipino experience. Multiple locations across all terminals.
24 hours
KFC
Fast Food
Standard KFC with Filipino-adapted menu including rice meals. Open 24 hours for late arrivals. Reliable and quick service.
24 hours
Max's Restaurant
Filipino
Classic Filipino chain known as \"The House That Fried Chicken Built.\" Serves excellent fried chicken, sinigang (sour soup), kare-kare (peanut stew), and pancit canton. A taste of traditional Filipino home cooking.
6:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Inasal Republic
Filipino Grilled
Grilled chicken inasal (Bacolod-style marinated chicken) with unlimited rice. A favorite among Filipinos for its flavorful and affordable meals. Pair with calamansi (Philippine lime) and soy-vinegar dipping sauce.
7:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Starbucks
Coffee/Cafe
Multiple Starbucks locations with Philippines-exclusive offerings. Try the Ube (purple yam) drinks for a local twist. Good Wi-Fi and comfortable seating for waiting.
5:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Ramen Nagi
Japanese Ramen
Popular Japanese ramen chain with rich tonkotsu broth, customizable noodle firmness, and generous toppings. The Original King ramen is the bestseller. Good option for a hearty meal before a flight.
10:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Car Rental
Avis Philippines
Terminal 3 Arrivals Hall
International brand with self-drive and chauffeur options. Self-drive requires Philippine or international driving permit. Chauffeur service highly recommended due to Manila traffic conditions.
Budget Rent A Car Philippines
Terminal 3 Arrivals
Affordable rental option. Manila driving is extremely challenging for foreigners - consider chauffeur service. Standard transmission common; request automatic if needed.
Hertz Philippines
Terminal 1 Arrivals Hall
Premium fleet available. Driver service strongly recommended. Good selection of SUVs for provincial travel. English-speaking drivers available.
ORIX Auto Rental
Terminal 3, Ground Level
Japanese-owned rental company with well-maintained fleet. Popular with business travelers. Chauffeured service standard. Good for multi-day provincial trips.
NAIA Rent A Car
Off-site, free airport pickup
Local rental company with 24-hour service and airport delivery. Competitive rates. All vehicles come with driver. Good for airport transfers and day trips.
What to Do During a Layover
Inside the Airport
Airport Massage
Massage kiosks in Terminal 3 departures area offer affordable Filipino-style massage, foot reflexology, and head massage. Prices start from PHP 300 (USD 5.40) for 30 minutes. A relaxing way to spend time during a layover.
Filipino Food Tour at Terminal 3
Terminal 3 has the best food options at NAIA. Try Jollibee Chickenjoy, Max's fried chicken, inasal, and finish with halo-halo (shaved ice dessert) or leche flan. Budget PHP 300-500 for a comprehensive tasting tour without leaving the terminal.
Explore the City
These activities require leaving the airport. Make sure you have valid visa and enough time before your next flight.
Resorts World Manila
Just a 5-minute walk from Terminal 3 via the Newport City covered walkway. Resorts World features a casino, cinema, shopping mall, and numerous restaurants. Free entry to browse. Great way to spend a long layover without venturing into Manila traffic.
Manila Bay Sunset at MOA
SM Mall of Asia is just 15-30 minutes from the airport. Walk the bayside boardwalk to catch Manila's famous sunset over Manila Bay. Free to enjoy. Combine with shopping and dining at one of Asia's largest malls. Best timing: arrive 1 hour before sunset.
Visit SM Mall of Asia
One of the largest malls in Asia featuring an Olympic-sized ice rink, IMAX theater, hundreds of shops, and the Manila Bay sunset boardwalk. Only 15-30 minutes from terminals by Grab. Open 10 AM - 10 PM. Popular with Filipino families and tourists alike.
Explore Intramuros (Walled City)
Visit the Spanish colonial-era walled city featuring Fort Santiago, Manila Cathedral, and Casa Manila museum. Take a bamboo bicycle tour or horse-drawn calesa ride through cobblestone streets. About 30-60 minutes from airport by Grab. Entry to Fort Santiago costs PHP 75 (USD 1.35).
Practical Information
WiFi & Connectivity
- Free WiFi: Yes (Unlimited (MNL Free WiFi))
- Speed Rating: ●●○○○
- Power Outlets: Type A, Type B (US-style), USB ports
- SIM Cards: Available for purchase
Services
- Left Luggage: PHP 100-200 per item per day (USD 1.80-3.60)
- Medical Services: Available
- Prayer Rooms: Available
Family Facilities
- Children's Play Areas
- Nursing Rooms
- Family Restrooms
Money & Currency
- Currency: Philippine Peso (PHP)
- Exchange: Multiple exchange counters in all terminals. Best rates at Terminal 3 arrivals hall from licensed money changers. ATMs accepting international cards available in all terminals.
- Hours: 24 hours (main counters)
- Tipping: Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. Tip porters PHP 20-50 per bag, taxi drivers round up the fare. Restaurants typically add a 10% service charge; no additional tip needed.
Smoking Areas
Designated smoking areas outside all terminals at ground level. No smoking inside terminals.
Lost & Found
- Phone: +63-2-8877-1109 ext. 2000