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The budget carrier said the shift covers all international flights operated by AirAsia Philippines (Z2) and AirAsia Malaysia (AK), which are currently handled at Terminal 3.
Why it matters
The move is part of New NAIA Infrastructure Corp.’s ongoing terminal reassignment program aimed at improving terminal operations and enhancing passenger experience at the country’s primary gateway. The reassignment is expected to streamline airline distribution across terminals as airport authorities pursue capacity and efficiency upgrades.
Under the new setup, all AirAsia international services — including check-in, boarding, and baggage claim — will be handled at Terminal 1.
What passengers need to know
Guests traveling on international flights starting March 29 are advised to proceed directly to NAIA Terminal 1 and arrive at least three hours before their scheduled departure time.
AirAsia said affected passengers will be informed of the terminal change through their registered email addresses and SMS numbers. Travelers are advised to monitor their contact details for official notifications.
Flight schedules will remain unchanged despite the terminal transfer. Passengers may check real-time flight statuses through the AirAsia MOVE app or via the airline’s website.
Operational details
In a statement issued Tuesday, AirAsia Philippines emphasized that the terminal transfer only affects the location of international operations and does not alter departure or arrival times.
The airline reiterated that only the terminal assignment will change beginning March 29, while all flight schedules will proceed as originally planned.
Domestic operations unaffected
Meanwhile, all AirAsia Philippines domestic flights will continue to operate from NAIA Terminal 2. The airline confirmed there will be no changes to its domestic flight schedules or terminal assignments.
Big picture
The reassignment underscores ongoing efforts by airport operator NNIC to rebalance airline terminal allocations at NAIA, which has long grappled with congestion and capacity constraints.
For AirAsia, consolidating international flights in Terminal 1 may also provide clearer passenger flow and operational alignment as infrastructure upgrades continue at Manila’s main airport. —Princess Daisy C. Ominga | Ed: Corrie S. Narisma
