After 20 Years: NAIA Terminal Fees Rise Starting September 14, 2025

NAIA terminal fees are increasing for the first time in 20 years starting September 14, 2025. International travelers will pay ₱950, domestic passengers ₱390. Learn why fees are rising, who is exempt, and what this means for travelers and OFWs.

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NAIA Terminal Fees Get First Increase in Two Decades

For the first time in about 20 years, the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) is implementing a hike in terminal fees, also known as the Passenger Service Charge (PSC).

Starting September 14, 2025, all departing passengers from NAIA will need to pay higher fees:

• ₱950 for international flights (previously ₱550)
• ₱390 for domestic flights (previously ₱200)

This marks the first adjustment since the early 2000s and comes as the airport undergoes major modernization under a new private concessionaire.

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Why Are Terminal Fees Increasing?

According to the New NAIA Infra Corp. (NNIC) — the private operator managing NAIA under a public-private partnership — the fee hike is essential to finance airport improvements.

The planned upgrades include:

• New passenger terminals (proposed Terminals 4 and 5)
• Modern facilities such as e-gates, self-check-in kiosks, and expanded lounges
• Better systems to address congestion and long passenger queues

The operator also noted that if PSC rates had been adjusted regularly for inflation since 2000, today’s fees would be even higher — estimated at around ₱1,300 for international passengers.

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Reactions and Controversy

The announcement has sparked mixed reactions:

• Government and airport authorities defend the increase, emphasizing it will help modernize the Philippines’ main gateway without burdening taxpayers.
• Travelers, labor groups, and some religious leaders have expressed concern, arguing the hike is untimely amid rising costs of living.
• Airport workers and advocacy groups even filed petitions to suspend the increase, citing the impact on low-income passengers.

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Exemptions for OFWs and Special Categories

The government confirmed that Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) remain exempt from paying terminal fees.

OFWs should present the necessary documentation (such as OFW ID, seafarer’s book, or valid employment contract) when booking tickets or checking in. Airlines will handle the exemption process at the point of sale or at NAIA counters.

Other exemptions apply to certain categories of passengers under existing rules, such as infants under two years old and some government-mandated travelers.

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How Will This Affect Travelers?

• Ticket Prices: For most travelers, the PSC is already included in the ticket price at the time of purchase. If your airline bundles the terminal fee, you won’t pay extra at the airport. However, last-minute or counter-purchased tickets may require separate PSC payment at NAIA.
• Budget Impact: International passengers will spend an additional ₱400, while domestic passengers will pay ₱190 more compared to the old rates.
• OFWs and exemptions: Make sure to present valid documents to avoid being charged.

While the increase adds cost, it represents a relatively small percentage of total airfare — especially for international flights.

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How NAIA Compares to Other Airports

NNIC highlighted that even after the adjustment, NAIA’s terminal fees remain comparable to or lower than those in other major Philippine airports like Cebu and Davao. Regionally, Manila’s PSC is still competitive with Southeast Asian gateways.

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What This Means for Philippine Aviation

The fee hike signals a shift toward long-overdue modernization of NAIA. With congestion long cited as one of the airport’s biggest problems, the extra revenue is expected to fund expansion that could:

• Shorten queues
• Improve traveler experience
• Support tourism growth
• Strengthen the Philippines’ reputation as a global travel hub

In the short term, the adjustment may affect budget-conscious travelers. But in the long term, improved facilities could bring better services and higher capacity.

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Key Takeaways for Travelers

• Effective September 14, 2025: NAIA terminal fees rise to ₱950 (international) and ₱390 (domestic).
• First increase in 20 years: The adjustment funds airport modernization under private management.
• OFWs remain exempt: Bring valid documentation to claim your exemption.
• Check your ticket: Most airlines already include the PSC in ticket prices, so you may not have to pay separately.
• Prepare for small added costs: ₱400 more for international, ₱190 more for domestic flights.

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Final Thoughts

While the increase in NAIA’s terminal fees may feel burdensome to travelers, especially amid rising expenses, it’s also a long-delayed adjustment tied to modernization plans. If implemented effectively, the additional revenue could transform the passenger experience at the country’s busiest airport.

For now, travelers should double-check their ticket details, prepare for the new charges, and look forward to long-term improvements in Philippine air travel.