If you have travel plans for outside Manila, you’ll want to budget a little extra.
Starting September 14, 2025, the Passenger Service Charge (a.k.a. terminal fee) at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) is going up for the first time in 20 years — almost double the current rate.
Photo: NNIC/Facebook
For international flights, the fee jumps from ₱550 to ₱950 per passenger. Meanwhile, domestic flight fees will rise from ₱200 to ₱390.
According to the Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) and the New NAIA Infra Corp. (NNIC) —the private operator that took over NAIA in 2024 — the hike was approved by the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and even reviewed by the Asian Development Bank.
Officials argue that NAIA’s terminal fee has stayed the same for two decades, making it among the lowest in Southeast Asia. They say the additional charges will fund airport operations and improvements to passenger services.
Not everyone has to worry about the new fees though. Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs), religious pilgrims (like those traveling for Hajj and Umrah), and Filipino athletes competing abroad are exempt.
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While the government touts NAIA’s privatization as a way to modernize airport services without using taxpayer money, critics like the labor and stakeholder group PUSO ng NAIA are concerned about higher costs and potential downsides of private management.
Still, Transport Secretary Vince Dizon defended the hike, saying it’s part of the long-term contract with the private operator: “Kasama na diyan ang pagtaas ng fees sa NAIA.”
What This Means for You
If you’re flying out after September 14, be ready for the adjusted fees, which are usually included in your ticket purchase.
While it’s an added cost, officials promise that the higher fees will translate into better services for passengers at NAIA.
Is this fee hike worth it if it means smoother flights and a better airport experience?
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