Navigating NAIA Terminal 3: Everything You Need to Know

Traveloka PH
6 min read

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.

List of airlines pperating from NAIA Terminal 3

Baggage claim area of NAIA Terminal 3

Baggage claim area of NAIA Terminal 3

Facilities at NAIA Terminal 3

NAIA Terminal 3 is equipped with a variety of facilities to ensure passenger comfort and convenience. Heres a detailed breakdown:

Baggage Claim: Located on the first floor, near the arrival halls.
Baggage Wrapping: Available in the departure area to secure your luggage.
Lost and Found: Assistance for lost items is available.
Medical Station: Located on the first floor for any medical emergencies.
Pharmacies: Available in the departure and arrival areas.
Help Desks: Found on all levels for general inquiries and assistance.
Airport Guides: Staff available to help you navigate the terminal.
ATMs: Multiple ATMs available on the first and second floors.
Currency Exchange: Counters available in both departure and arrival areas.
Free Wi-Fi: Accessible throughout the terminal.
Charging Stations: Located near boarding gates and seating areas.
Luggage Storage: Available for a fee if you need to store your luggage temporarily.
Family with children eating at airport restaurant before departure on vacation

Dining options at NAIA Terminal 3

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.

McDonalds: Located on the second floor.
Jollibee: Found on the second floor.
Burger King: Available in the food court.
Shakeys Pizza: Perfect for a quick meal.
Maxs Restaurant: Offers Filipino dishes.
Starbucks: Multiple locations within the terminal.
The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf: Ideal for coffee and pastries.
Tokyo Tokyo: Japanese fast food.
Chinese Deli: Offers a variety of Chinese dishes.

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.

Location and getting to NAIA Terminal 3

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.

Driving Directions

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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Commuting Directions

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 available at NAIA Terminal 3

Transportation Services

Transportation Services

Getting to and from NAIA Terminal 3 is convenient with multiple transportation options:

Airport Shuttle: Free Shuttle Service: Connects all NAIA terminals. The shuttle station is on the first floor.
Taxi Services: Airport Taxis: Metered taxis available outside the arrival area. Coupon Taxis: Fixed-rate taxis with designated counters.
Ride-Hailing Services: Grab: A designated pick-up point for Grab rides is available.
Public Transportation: Buses: MIA signboard buses on EDSA stop at the Airport Road, where you can take a jeepney to Nichols. Jeepneys: Routes going to Nichols/Terminal 3 from EDSA Taft Rotonda.
Private Car Services: Car Rentals: Available counters in the arrival area for renting a car. Hotel Shuttles: Many nearby hotels offer shuttle services to and from the terminal.

Departure hall protocols

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.

1. Security Check

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.

2. Travel Tax Payment

Travel Tax Payment Counter

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.

3. Check-In

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.

4. Immigration

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.

5. Security Check... Again

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.

6. Boarding

NAIA Terminal 3 departure

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.

Arrival hall protocols

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.

1. Immigration

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.

3. Customs

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.

4. Exit

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.

Time-saving tips for NAIA Terminal 3

Rear view of young man checking flight schedule on the arrival departure board at airport.

Rear view of young man checking flight schedule on the arrival departure board at airport.

Online Check-In: Check-in online to save time at the airport. Most airlines allow you to check in 24 hours before your flight.
Travel Light: If possible, travel with carry-on luggage only to avoid waiting at the baggage claim.
Arrive Early: For international flights, arrive at least 3 hours before departure; for domestic flights, 2 hours is sufficient.
Know the Layout: Familiarise yourself with the terminal layout beforehand to quickly locate check-in counters, gates, and other facilities.
Use Priority Services: If available, use priority lanes for check-in and security to save time.
Stay Updated: Keep an eye on flight information displays for any changes to gates or boarding times.
Have Documents Ready: Keep your passport, boarding pass, and other travel documents easily accessible to speed up security and immigration processes.
Utilise Porter Services: If you have multiple or heavy bags, using porter services can save you time and effort.

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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In This Article

• List of airlines pperating from NAIA Terminal 3
• Facilities at NAIA Terminal 3
• Dining options at NAIA Terminal 3
• Location and getting to NAIA Terminal 3
• Driving Directions
• Commuting Directions
• Transportation services available at NAIA Terminal 3
• Departure hall protocols
• 1. Security Check
• 2. Travel Tax Payment
• 3. Check-In
• 4. Immigration
• 5. Security Check... Again
• 6. Boarding
• Arrival hall protocols
• 1. Immigration
• 2. Baggage Carousel
• 3. Customs
• 4. Exit
• Time-saving tips for NAIA Terminal 3

Flights Featured in This Article

Fri, 6 Feb 2026
Cebu Pacific
Melbourne (MEL) to Manila (MNL)
Start from AU$278.16
Book Now
Tue, 17 Feb 2026
Cebu Pacific
Sydney (SYD) to Manila (MNL)
Start from AU$261.84
Book Now
Tue, 10 Feb 2026
AirAsia Berhad (Malaysia)
Perth (PER) to Manila (MNL)
Start from AU$192.45
Book Now
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