Metro Manila, Philippines – Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) expects to handle approximately 1.25 million passengers during the nine-day Undas travel period from October 27 to November 4, 2026, up 1% from 1.24 million during the same period last year.
October 30 is projected to be the busiest day, with about 149,000 travelers passing through the airport.
New NAIA Infra Corp. (NNIC), which operates NAIA, said it is stepping up preparations for the travel rush, including round-the-clock operational monitoring, additional personnel and passenger assistance services during peak periods, heightened security, and closer coordination with airlines, ground handlers, transport providers, and government agencies.
A 24-hour Command Center at Terminal 2 will oversee coordination and incident response, allowing airport teams and government agencies to address operational disruptions as they arise.
NNIC is working closely with the Department of Transportation (DOTr), Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA), Office for Transportation Security (OTS), Philippine National Police–Aviation Security Group (PNP-ASG), Bureau of Immigration (BI), Bureau of Customs (BOC), Bureau of Quarantine (BOQ), and other agencies responsible for airport security, passenger processing, health screening, and border control.
Security measures include increased police patrols at terminal entrances, curbside areas, and parking facilities, along with K-9 patrols and stricter access controls. Additional screening personnel and checkpoints will be available during peak hours, with technical teams on standby to address equipment problems.
Immigration, customs, and quarantine counters will also be staffed according to demand, with additional counters operating during peak periods to help manage queues. Public Assistance Desks will operate 24/7 at the arrival and departure areas of Terminals 1, 2, and 3, providing travelers with information, directions, medical assistance, and help with other concerns.
To manage heavier vehicle traffic, NNIC and its partners will deploy traffic marshals, coordinate with road authorities, and adjust taxi and shuttle services during peak periods. Inter-terminal shuttles will also be scheduled around passenger arrival and departure peaks, while additional porters and baggage carts will be available.
On the airside, NNIC will closely coordinate aircraft parking arrangements to accommodate additional or unscheduled flights and reduce delays caused by aircraft stand availability. Medical, fire, safety, engineering, and technical teams will also remain on duty throughout the travel period.
NAIA enters this year’s Undas travel period with improved passenger processing systems and expanded facilities following more than two years of modernization under NNIC.
Among the major developments since last year is the completion of 78 automated immigration e-gates at Terminals 1 and 3, allowing eligible passengers to clear immigration in approximately 20 seconds, subject to BI screening requirements.
Upgraded flight information displays, improved terminal access and waiting areas, and additional passenger facilities are also expected to help accommodate the holiday rush. New restaurants, dining areas, and lounges have opened across the terminals, providing more options for travelers.
NNIC said its operations teams will continue monitoring aircraft movements, baggage handling, and congestion at terminal entrances, check-in counters, and boarding gates, while working with airlines and ground handlers to address bottlenecks and flight disruptions.
The airport operator advised passengers to arrive at least three hours before international flights and two hours before domestic flights, check their flight status and assigned terminal before leaving home, and allow extra time for road traffic and security screening.
Travelers are also encouraged to check in online where available, prepare their travel documents, and comply with baggage restrictions. International passengers required to register through eTravel should complete the process within 72 hours before their scheduled arrival or departure. Registration is free through the official eTravel platform or the eGovPH app.
Meanwhile, passengers are advised to use only authorized airport transport services and report illegal solicitors to airport personnel or police. Those needing assistance may approach the Public Assistance Desks at their respective terminals.
