NAIA Survival Guide

Moving between terminals

NAIA's four terminals are not connected by walkways

Updated October 1, 2024

At Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), the four terminals aren't connected by walkways, so each one feels like a separate airport.

Some airlines, like Philippine Airlines, offer their own shuttle buses to transport passengers between terminals. Passengers of other airlines don't need to worry though as the Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) provides a free shuttle bus service between terminals that operates 24/7.

MIAA Free Shuttle Bus

This section requires validation after turnover of NAIA to New NAIA Infrastucture Corporation.

The MIAA Free Shuttle Bus service shuttles passengers between all four terminals at NAIA. The buses are air-conditioned and have ample space for luggage to ensure a comfortable ride. This means you can use it to transfer from Terminal 1 to Terminal 3, Terminal 4 to Terminal 3, Terminal 2 to Terminal 1 or any other combination.

Even though the shuttle bus operates 24 hours a day and 7 days a week, it only runs once an hour. It is also on a first-come, first-served basis. For those planning to use this service, make sure that you allot ample time to transfer between terminals - as you might miss the next bus.

In case you miss the free shuttle bus, you can also take a taxi or book a Grab car to transfer between terminals.

How do I avail the free shuttle bus?

To avail of the free shuttle bus service, simply show your ticket or boarding pass. Your onward flight must be within the next 24 hours.

Where do I find the free shuttle bus at NAIA?

The waiting area for the free shuttle bus is located at:

  • Terminal 1: at the arrival curbside. There is a huge sign saying AIRPORT SHUTTLE / TRANSFER SERVICE.
  • Terminal 2: at the arrival curbside next to pick-up bay 19
  • Terminal 3: Follow signs saying "For passengers with connecting flights to Terminal 1, 2 and 4" or "Terminal Transfer Bus". After exiting the baggage claim area, turn left and walk towards the end of the terminal. At the far end of the terminal, turn left and you should see the sign for the shuttle bus.

Ride-hailing services

Grab is a popular ride-hailing service in Southeast Asia. You can book a Grab car to transfer between terminals at NAIA.

Booking Grab is a good idea if you're in a hurry or if you're traveling with a lot of luggage. There is a newly-constructed expressway connecting most of the terminals at NAIA, so the travel time between terminals is relatively shorter than it used to.

Mikko Gozalo
About the author

Mikko Gozalo

Creator of MNLAirport.ph

Mikko is a data scientist based in Hong Kong. He flies the Manila to Hong Kong route regularly. Having flown a lot from NAIA, he decided to create MNLAirport.ph to help fellow travelers.

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