A planned expansion at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport is expected to trigger a broad realignment of airline operations starting in 2026, with low-cost carriers facing the biggest changes once a new terminal becomes operational.
According to information shared by the Manila International Airport Authority, the opening of a new Terminal 4 could set off a chain of transfers across the airport’s existing facilities. MIAA General Manager Manila International Airport Authority Eric Ines told ABS-CBN News that the reshuffling is projected to begin after the new terminal is completed, which is currently targeted for May 2026.
The upcoming Terminal 4 is being constructed on the former cargo terminal site situated between Terminals 1 and 2. Once operational, it is expected to absorb domestic flights operated by AirAsia, which will vacate Terminal 2 as part of the transition. Ines explained that the new terminal will be a basic facility without aerobridges and designed to handle around six gates, saying, “That is expected to be done by the end of May… Wala naman aerobridges, ramp lang yun. Good for 6 gates siguro.”
With AirAsia’s domestic services moving out, Terminal 2 will then accommodate domestic flights of Cebu Pacific, which currently operates primarily out of Terminal 3. The shift would mark a significant operational change for Cebu Pacific, which has been the largest airline at Terminal 3 and has maintained its presence there for more than ten years.
Ines said the internal layout of Terminal 2 would be split between carriers, noting, “North wing [of T2] would be Philippine Airlines, south wing would be for Cebu Pacific. Pag natapos ang terminal 4, doon ililipat si AirAsia,” referring to Philippine Airlines retaining the north wing.
The adjustments would also affect international operations. Terminal 1 is set to become the primary hub for international flights of budget carriers, including Cebu Pacific, whose overseas services would relocate from Terminal 3. Other low-cost international airlines, such as Scoot, are likewise expected to operate from Terminal 1.
Under the current plan, Terminal 3 would be dedicated to international flights of full-service and other non-budget airlines. Meanwhile, a separate Terminal 5, now under construction near Terminal 2, is being positioned as a future domestic terminal.
Ines emphasized that the proposed realignments remain subject to revision and will be carried out gradually. He added that airlines have been coordinating with authorities as discussions continue. As of reporting, neither the affected airlines nor New NAIA Infra Corp have released official statements regarding the proposed changes for next year.
