Heads Up, Travellers! Potential NAIA Terminal Fee Hike Coming Soon

Planning a trip abroad in 2025? You might want to factor in a potential increase in airport fees when budgeting for your next flight. The Department of Transportation (DOTr) is proposing a Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) terminal fee hike to help fund upcoming improvements.

Also read: NAIA Announces New Passenger Terminal

What you need to know about the NAIA terminal fee hike

This proposal comes in the wake of a ₱170.6 billion concession deal awarded to a private consortium led by San Miguel Corporation. The consortium will be responsible for rehabilitating and modernising the ageing NAIA terminals, aiming to enhance operational efficiency. Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista explains that the proposed fee increase serves as a way to “compensate the concessionaire for their investments.”

Currently, NAIA terminal fees sit at ₱200 for domestic flights and ₱550 for international flights. The proposed change would only impact international travellers, with a potential ₱400 increase, bringing the new fee to ₱950. This translates to a roughly 73% increase for international flights departing NAIA.

It’s important to note that this potential terminal fee increase might not be the only cost change affecting airfare. The DOTr also mentioned possible increases in other airport fees charged to airlines, such as landing and takeoff charges and airplane parking fees. The DOTr is considering implementing additional airport fee hikes before the end of 2024.

Planning your travels

The government committee is currently reviewing the proposed terminal fee increase, which has already been made public. The final decision and potential implementation timeframe are yet to be confirmed.

While the future cost of flying from NAIA remains uncertain, it’s always wise to be informed when planning your travels. Keeping an eye on official updates from the DOTr or your chosen airlines can help you adjust your budgets accordingly.

Also read: Airport 101: A NAIA Survival Guide for First-time International Travellers

The proposed NAIA terminal fee hike reflects a potential trade-off! Higher fees for passengers in exchange for a more modern and efficient airport experience. While the final decision is still pending, staying informed about these developments will help ensure you’re prepared!