NAIA Terminal Fees Just Increased From ₱550 to ₱950

Flying out of the country just got pricier for Filipinos. After 20 years of holding the line, Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) just bumped up its terminal fees this month effective 14 September. And yes, it’s a pretty steep jump.

International passengers will now pay ₱950 instead of ₱550. Domestic travellers aren’t spared either, with fees rising to ₱390 from ₱200.

So if you have flights booked this month, that’s the extra money you need to factor in.

Image credit: Manila International Airport Authority Facebook Page

The Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) is enforcing a revised order that kicked in as part of the government’s concession deal with San Miguel-led New Naia Infra Corp. (NNIC). Basically, it’s all tied to the massive airport modernisation project.

And while a lot of groups begged for a delay, the operator stood firm. The hike is happening.

Also read: Privatizing NAIA: Better Airport or Bigger Burden for Filipinos?

But wait, are we still cheaper?

According to NNIC, NAIA’s fees are still on the low side compared to other Asian airports. For reference:

• Haneda (Japan), Bangkok (Thailand), Hanoi (Vietnam), Phnom Penh (Cambodia), and Changi (Singapore) all charge way higher, ranging from ₱1,136 up to ₱2,683.

• With the new rates, NAIA simply levels up with other airports in the Philippines, not outpricing the region.

Also, for our kababayans: overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) remain exempt from international terminal fees.

Image credit: Manila International Airport Authority Facebook Page

NNIC said part of the collected fees will go straight to the government. As of 15 August, it had already remitted ₱48.3 billion, with a projected capital spending of ₱13 billion this year alone.

The consortium, which includes San Miguel Corp. and Incheon International Airport, pledged to pour more than ₱170 billion into rehabilitating and modernising NAIA after it took over operations last year.

So, if you’re flying out of NAIA from 14 September onwards, be ready to spend more at check-out. The new terminal fees will automatically be included in your ticket, so no surprise counterside payments.

Also read: No More Rebooking Fees: DOTr Wants Airlines to Cut Extra Charges

For OFWs, breathe easy… you’re still exempt. For everyone else, think of it as your contribution to finally fixing the airport we love to hate.

For Filipino tourists travelling international, NAIA’s terminal fee hike is now unavoidable. Whether you’re flying domestic or international, budget an extra ₱190 to ₱400 per person. The hope? These higher fees will finally translate to a better airport experience for millions of Filipinos who rely on NAIA every year.

Featured image credit: Manila International Airport Facebook Page