NAIA expands self check-in to more airlines to cut queueing time

Insider Spotlight

• NAIA widens automated gates access
• More carriers complete system integration
• Biometric push aligns with global hubs

More airlines are plugging into Ninoy Aquino International Airport’s automated passenger processing program, allowing more travelers to use self check-in kiosks, pre-security e-gates and self-boarding lanes across Terminals 1, 2 and 3.

The upgrade is being rolled out by New NAIA Infra Corp. (NNIC), the airport’s private operator, as part of a broader effort to ease congestion and modernize passenger flow, the San Miguel Corp.-led firm said in a press statement on Thursday, Feb. 19, 2026.

Why it matters

The expanded access means eligible passengers can check in, print boarding passes, tag bags, clear initial security and board flights through automated lanes, reducing queue times at traditional counters.

A phased activation of automated bag drop features is also ongoing, signaling deeper end-to-end automation at the country’s main gateway.

For an airport long criticized for congestion, the move is a step toward matching biometric-enabled standards used at major international hubs across Asia, the Middle East and North America.

Who’s included

• Terminal 1
  • Philippine Airlines’ international destinations, excluding Middle East and Japan routes, and Asiana Airlines for Korean nationals and foreign passengers without visa requirements are now enabled.
• Terminal 2
  • Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific and AirAsia domestic passengers can use the system.
• Terminal 3
  • Cebu Pacific domestic and international passengers, AirAsia international passengers, United Airlines foreign passengers without visa requirements, Qatar Airways and Air Canada passengers are covered.

What they’re saying

“These systems are already operational, and we are seeing more airlines come on board as integration is completed,” NNIC said. “As participation expands, more passengers will be able to move through check-in, security, and boarding more efficiently.”

How it works

Passengers on eligible flights may use self check-in kiosks near terminal check-in areas, print boarding passes and bag tags, then proceed to bag drop counters or automated lanes before heading to pre-security and self-boarding gates.

NNIC said additional airlines and routes will be enabled in the coming months as integration work continues.

The bottom line

As more carriers integrate into NAIA’s automated system, the airport inches closer to a fully digitized passenger journey — one that promises faster processing and a smoother travel experience at the country’s busiest air hub.

— Edited by Daxim L. Lucas