SMC ends VIP-only driveway at NAIA Terminal 1

We have some good news for travelers who frequently arrive at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 1. The New NAIA Infra Corporation (NNIC) under the San Miguel Corporation (SMC) recently announced they have opened the main arrival curbside to all private vehicles, making the once-restricted area now accessible to all passengers – not just VIPs.

With it, NNIC says this change provides a more inclusive and convenient experience for arriving travelers. It's also part of the NNIC's broader effort to improve traffic flow and passenger comfort at one of the airport's busiest terminals.

Opening the main arrival curbside to all passengers is a key feature of the newly reconfigured pickup system at Terminal 1, simplifying pickups for private vehicles, ride-hailing services, and metered taxis while easing congestion and improving the passenger experience.

For now, the new system is in its soft launch phase to provide passengers and transport providers an opportunity to familiarize themselves with the changes. Moreover, this phase will allow for fine-tuning and adjustments to ensure a smooth transition before its full implementation.

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

Bays A13 and A14 will be for hotel pickups to further streamline the curbside system. With this setup, arriving passengers now have more options for convenient pickups, including the comfort of waiting at the main arrival curbside. In addition, Terminal Transfer shuttle bus services will also operate from this area, with stops located just beyond Bay A14.

As part of the overall reconfiguration, 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 placed in the area to provide quick and convenient booking options for passengers.

Finally, 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.

Clear directional signage will be installed throughout the terminal, and airport personnel will be available to guide passengers and drivers to the appropriate zones. NNIC encourages all travelers and visitors to follow the updated system for a more efficient and hassle-free arrival experience.