Internal Flights

Getting around the Philippines is easy by air! A number of different airlines operate, but the main two are Philippine Airlines and Cebu Pacific.

The Airport at Manila consists of three main terminals and you can easily get a bus or taxi between them. Terminal 1 is international. Terminal 2 is Philippine Airlines - domestic and international. Terminal 3 is Cebu Pacific, with a few Philippine Airlines flights. In addition, the old Cebu Pacific terminal is now the Zest Airways terminal. Please check your tickets for the correct terminal.

Remember that in addition to the ticket price you will have to pay a terminal fee. For domestic flights this is 200 peso from Manila (April 2009) and as low as 30 peso from some provincial airports. International flights demand a 750 peso fee (or pay in dollars), so save some money when for when you leave the country!

Philippine Airlines [click here] offers arguably the best flights. Flights are typically on time. If you change your flight time or plan it is easy to get a refund. Customer service is good and you will be served quickly. Choose the Econlight fare (only available online) for the best deal - even cheaper than economy, but without the snack. Philippine Airlines are partnered with Air Philippines [click here]

Cebu Pacific [click here] offers a good deal and often bargain flights (zero fare, but add on tax etc.) Flights are good and the fleet is new, but domestic flights are not always on time. If you choose not to take a flight, refunds are a very difficult process. Customer service on the plane is excellent, but if you go to an office expect to wait an hour or two. If I'm certain I'm travelling and the fare is cheaper, I quite happily travel Cebu Pacific.

Zest Airways [click here] is formerly Asian Spirit. Sometimes cheaper than the above, sometimes not. A relatively small airline.

Flights can easily be booked online for the best deals. If you want flexibility it is very easy to book last minute at airline or airport offices. This will cost a little more. Almost always you'll be able to get a last minute flight, but best not to try this on Christmas Eve!