MANILA (UPDATE) - The main arrival curbside of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport's (NAIA) Terminal 1 is now open to all private vehicles and not just very important persons (VIPs), the airport operator said Friday.

In a statement, the New NAIA Infra Corporation (NNIC)  said this provides a more inclusive and convenient experience for arriving travelers and their loved ones, as part of a broader effort to improve traffic flow and passenger comfort at one of the airport’s busiest terminals.

NNIC said opening the main arrival curbside to all passengers will simplify pickups for private vehicles, ride-hailing services, and metered taxis while easing congestion and improving the passenger experience.

"The new system is currently in its soft launch phase to provide passengers and transport providers an opportunity to familiarize themselves with the changes. This phase also allows for fine-tuning and adjustments to ensure a smooth transition before its full implementation," the airport operator said.

According to NNIC, the main arrival curbside has 14 designated loading bays — A1 to A14 — where private vehicles can pick up passengers. Bays A8 and A9 are designated for persons with disabilities (PWDs), while Bays A11 and A12 will continue to be reserved for VIP pickups. 

Bays A13 and A14 will be for hotel pickups. Terminal Transfer shuttle bus services will also operate from this area, with stops located just beyond Bay A14, the company added.

The outer curbside — B1 to B6 — has been designated as an additional pickup area. This section will feature a dedicated Meet and Greet Area. Grab ride-hailing booths will also be strategically positioned in the area to provide quick and convenient booking options for passengers, NNIC said.

Rent-a-Car services, coupon taxis, and yellow metered taxis will be relocated to the arrival extension area on the ground level. This adjustment is expected to further decongest the main terminal curbside while maintaining reliable public transport access, the company said.

Clear directional signage will be installed throughout the terminal, and airport personnel will be available to guide passengers and drivers to the appropriate zones to further ensure a smooth transition, the airport operator said. 

"NNIC encourages all travelers and visitors to follow the updated system for a more efficient and hassle-free arrival experience," it added.

NNIC, a San Miguel-led consortium, took over NAIA operations in September. Since then, it has raised parking fees to 'prioritize' passengers and partnered with Meralco to boost the power supply in the airport.

San Miguel is also using a portion of the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation's (PAGCOR) Nayong Pilipino property for infrastructure to complement airport operations.

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