
Arriving at or departing from Manila's Ninoy Aquino International Airport? Here's what you need to know about NAIA Terminal 3, one of the massive airport's four terminals.
With the capacity to handle about 13 million passengers per year from 24 gates and 140 check-in counters, Terminal 3 at Manila's Ninoy Aquino Internaitonal Airport is anything but small.
It hosts both domestic and international flights, and if you're coming from Australia, or a connecting one via another city in Asia, there's a good chance you'll be arriving here.
Baggage claim area of NAIA Terminal 3
NAIA Terminal 3 is equipped with a variety of facilities to ensure passenger comfort and convenience. Heres a detailed breakdown:
NAIA Terminal 3 offers a wide range of dining options to suit various tastes and preferences. Whether you're after a final taste of Filipino cuisine before catching your flight or are just looking for an affordable bite, there's plenty to choose from.
The terminal has four levels and a parking garage that is connected to the main terminal:
First Floor: This levelincludes free airport shuttle station, medical station, information counters, baggage claim area, transfer transit point, and ATMs. Arrival halls are also here.Second Floor: Departure halls and ticketing desks can be found here.Third Floor: This level leads to the boarding gates.Fourth Floor: There is mezzanine access to the boarding gates 118-120 and 131-134 in this level.
Depending on where in the city you're coming from, and the current state of traffic, it will likely take at least 30-60 minutes to get to the airport from Manila.
Sitting south of the city, NAIA Terminal 3 is located along the Pasay-Paranaque border. It is close to various hotels, fast-food chains, and other commercial establishments.
Depending on where you are coming from, there are different ways to get to NAIA 3. If youre coming from the south via SLEX, take the exit ramp in Nichols after the toll gates, turn left towards Villamor Airbase, then go around the rotonda heading to NAIA Terminal 3. If youre coming from the north via C5, head towards Fort Bonifacio and drive all the way to Nichols until you see the terminal entrance.
Coming from EDSA, take the flyover to Airport Road, turn right to Andrews Avenue, make a U-turn at the rotonda, and then drive until you see the terminal. For the best tips for NAIA Terminal 3, be sure to familiarise yourself with the various services at NAIA Terminal 3 to ensure a smooth journey.
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You may ride a bus with a MIA signboard on EDSA. Alight on Airport Road and take a jeepney bound for Nichols. There are also jeepneys going to Nichols/Terminal 3 at EDSA Taft Rotonda.
If youre coming from Eastwood City, you may take the bus operated by Citylink Coach Services, which takes passengers straight to the terminal. Alternatively, you may take a cab; fares depend on where you are coming from. Knowing what to expect at NAIA Terminal 3 will help you navigate these options smoothly.
Transportation Services
Getting to and from NAIA Terminal 3 is convenient with multiple transportation options:
The departure hall in NAIA Terminal 3 is located on the second floor. Heres a step-by-step guide on what to do when flying out from this terminal. This airport guide provides essential travel tips for navigating through check-in, security, and boarding processes efficiently.l.
Before entering the facility, prepare your passport and ticket. An officer will inspect these documents before you proceed to the x-ray machine.
Make use of the porter services if you are carrying heavy or several bags.
Editorial credit: RaksyBH / Shutterstock.com<
Proceed to the TIEZA counters just beside the check-in desks. This is where you pay travel tax amounting to PHP 1,620.
You will have to show your passport and ticket to the officer. Keep the receipt as you will need this later on.
Take note that only passengers taking international flights have to complete this step.
Present your passport, ticket, and travel tax receipts at the check-in counter in NAIA Terminal 3. This is where you should drop your check-in luggage.
Passengers typically check in at least an hour before their flight for smooth airport navigation and terminal services. International passengers are advised to arrive earlier for added convenience and preparation.
After completing check-in, you will receive your boarding pass with boarding time details. Make sure to note the assigned gate number for your departure.
Before proceeding to the immigration counters, fill out a departure form.
Head towards the Bureau of Immigration window with your passport, boarding pass, and departure card.
Expect the officer to ask you questions related to your travel. This is why its also important to bring important travel documents with you. The office will stamp your passport once done.
A final security check is required before you proceed to the boarding gate. Your hand-carry will be going through an x-ray and metal detector again.
Boarding gate situation at NAIA Terminal 3
Be attentive once youre at the boarding gate. You will hear announcements regarding boardings as well as change of gates and boarding times. After your flight number is called, line up and prepare your boarding pass and passport.
The arrival hall is on the ground floor of NAIA Terminal 3. Take note that there are no tubes used at the terminal on deplaning for domestic travel.
Passengers should board shuttle buses to and from the boarding gates instead.
After deplaning, head towards the immigration counters and line up. Present your passport and customs form and have the former stamped.
Head towards the ground floor to get your checked-in bags from the baggage carousel. The conveyor belts have labels showing your flight number.
Go to the customs counter after collecting your luggage. This is where you should submit your customs form. If you have nothing to declare, your bag doesnt have to undergo inspection.
Head over to the passenger waiting area, where your fetcher, family, or friends are waiting. You may also request porter services to help you with your things.
Rear view of young man checking flight schedule on the arrival departure board at airport.
NAIA Terminal 3 is well-equipped with various facilities, dining options, and transportation services to ensure a smooth travel experience. By following these time-saving tips, you can make your journey through the terminal more efficient and stress-free.
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