In a move to improve passenger flow and accessibility, Ninoy Aquino Internationa Airport (NAIA) Terminal 1 has eliminated its VIP-exclusive curbside access, opening the main arrival area to all passengers.
In a Facebook page, NAIA said the change allows private vehicles to pick up all arriving passengers directly at the main curbside, eliminating the previous system that reserved this convenience for VIPs.
“We’re making big changes at NAIA Terminal 1 to improve your arrival experience and reduce congestion around the terminal,” NAIA said.
However, it noted that this change is currently in its soft launch phase.
Passengers are advised that they might experience some minor inconveniences as the system is adjusted before its full implementation.
NAIA added that it is working to ensure a smooth transition and thanked passengers for their patience and cooperation.
In October last year, the New NAIA Infrastructure Corp. (NNIC), the private operator of Metro Manila’s main gateway, increased the fees for passengers seeking VIP treatment at the airport.
NNIC noted that while VIP privileges were intended for dignitaries and other important individuals, they had become "easily accessible" in the past for a mere P800, allowing any passenger to bypass regular airport procedures.
The NNIC raised the meet-and-assist service fee to P8,000 per passenger to discourage non-essential use.
NNIC’s VIP Assistance Personnel now exclusively handles VIP courtesies, and non-passengers will no longer be permitted to provide meet-and-greet services.
Access passes is also evaluated on a per-case basis, replacing the previous annual pass system.
NNIC, however, said that it will continue to provide secure and efficient travel services for VIPs and IPs, including high-ranking officials, dignitaries, and foreign representatives, for security, diplomatic, and efficiency reasons.