*Last updated on: 27 May 2021

COVID-19 Safety Measures at Manila Ninoy Aquino Airport

If you're flying into Manila in the near future, be prepared for some changes at the airport. COVID-19 has forced the local authorities to take a range of actions to protect travellers and staff, so we've put together a quick guide to the main COVID-19 safety measures at Manila Ninoy Aquino International Airport to help you pass through with minimal stress.

What airport measures are currently in place for travellers?

As with virtually every other international airport, Ninoy Aquino International Airport has implemented basic measures like mandatory social distancing and the need to wear face coverings while inside the terminals. Some desks have been closed and seats roped off as well, so that staff and passengers can be kept separate. In addition, all travellers must complete a PAL Electronic Case Investigation Form before arrival, including details about their onward destination. An RT-PCR is also mandatory, as are temperature checks for all arrivals.

Do immigration or security checkpoints have new procedures?

Yes, things have changed quite a lot at Ninoy Aquino International Airport. From November 2020 and mandated by the Philippine Department of Transportation, all travellers flying to and from the Philippines need to to download and register through the TrazeApp. This will be required for ALL international and domestic passengers flying to and from the Philippines. Before flying, travellers must complete the Case Investigation Form and forward it digitally to the authorities. Upon arrival, temperature checks are essential before passing through passports and customs. After that point, a PCR test must be taken, and travellers must also attend the Hotel Verification Desk to receive details about baggage reclaim and onward transport to their hotel. Travellers must then maintain quarantine at their hotel (or other accommodation) until a negative COVID-19 test is received via text or email.

Are there COVID-19 testing facilities at Manila Ninoy Aquino International Airport?

Yes, the Philippines government has created a PCR testing centre inside the airport that all arrivals are required to attend. This centre will administer a swab test after you have passed through passport control, and should provide results within 2 days. Travellers are free to leave the airport site following their tests, but must maintain quarantine until results are obtained. Each PCR test comes with a fee attached, which can be paid via credit cards, PayPal, or cash (PHP or USD).

What are the social distancing and face covering policies at the airport?

Social distancing policies have been in place at NAIA since March 2020, and passengers will be provided with clear signage to maintain a distance of 1-metre at all times. Passengers must also wear face masks while they are inside the airport terminals.

Does the airport have a clinic?

Yes, Ninoy Aquino International Airport features a medical centre where visitors can access basic medical care if required. It can be found in the South Wing of Terminal 3, not far from the baggage reclaim carousel. Pharmacies can also be found in the shopping areas of each terminal.

How often is the airport being cleaned during the COVID-19 pandemic?

During the COVID-19 outbreak, Ninoy Aquino International Airport has undergone an intensive cleaning regime, with staff disinfecting public areas multiple times every day. The airport aims to clean the whole premises every 30 minutes, while hand sanitiser has been provided for all passengers to use.

Are the shops and restaurants at NAIA open as normal?

Most shops and restaurants at Ninoy Aquino International closed at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, but recently Duty Free Philippines has reopened its stores in Terminal 1. Travellers will be able to purchase chocolate and perfumes there as they used to, with however a maximum of 2000 passengers within the airport to limit the sanitary risks.

Are there any special guidelines or other information that travellers should be aware of?

Passengers should remember to complete all necessary paperwork before traveling to Ninoy Aquino International Airport, including the Case Investigation Form. They should also plan ways to entertain themselves during quarantine. Pick a hotel with the amenities required, and check the list of hotels accredited by Tourism and Health Agencies for providers which meet the highest health and safety standards. They must also not forget to download the Traze app, which is mandatory to navigate through Philippines airports.

Are there any links to the government website for travellers?

The website at Manila Ninoy Aquino International Airport does not provide much information about Covid protocols or safety measures, but the Philippines Department of Tourism has more comprehensive updates about Covid restrictions across the country. So before you fly to Manila with BudgetAir, it's worth reading the regulations on travel, testing, and distancing.