At Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3 in Manila, Philippines, there’s a walkway called “The Runway” that allows you to walk directly from inside the airport building to the adjacent hotel area, Newport World Resort & Hotels. You can reach the hotels on foot without having to go through the official airport exits, thus avoiding crowds and traffic jams, making for a stress-free transfer.
However, it seems this benefit is not widely known, perhaps because it’s only useful for a limited number of hotels. Nevertheless, it’s very useful information for those with a layover who have booked a hotel near the airport for the next day’s flight. Conversely, you can also use this Runway to enter the airport without dealing with the usual congested entrance. There is no charge for using it; passage is free.
This article provides information based on my actual experience in August 2024.
By combining this article with another about inter-terminal transfers, your movements within Manila Airport can become much more efficient.
What is the NAIA Terminal 3 Runway?
How to Exit the Airport via The Runway
After landing at Terminal 3 and completing procedures, you will exit to the first floor. There’s a prominent information board like the one above. “The Runway” sign is at the bottom. Follow the arrows and walk in that direction.
Follow the signs and take the escalator up to the 4th floor. You’ll walk through the food court (restaurant area) on your left.
There are many signs, so you won’t get lost. Once you exit the terminal building, there’s a walkway that crosses over the highway. It has moving walkways and, although it’s a bit of a walk, it’s comfortable as it’s air-conditioned. After crossing the walkway, you’ll arrive at an elevator.
Baggage carts are available on this elevated walkway over the highway, so if you have a lot of luggage or have difficulty walking, you can use one.
Take the elevator down to the first floor, where you’ll find the exit.
Right in front of this exit is the Belmont Hotel. From there, hotels and restaurants line the street.
How to Enter the Terminal from Outside the Airport
Conversely, if you’re entering the airport, the procedure is slightly different.
First, when you enter The Runway entrance in front of the Belmont Hotel, there will be a security check for your luggage before you can proceed inside.
As you walk further, you’ll encounter another security check when entering the Terminal 3 building. After clearing this, you can enter the building.
If you are departing from Terminal 3, you’ll proceed to the departure floor. If you are using another terminal, you’ll go through Terminal 3, complete the procedures at the shuttle bus counter, and then transfer (see separate article).
Conclusion
Manila’s Ninoy Aquino Airport often has a poor reputation for being difficult to use due to the distance between terminals and strict security at airport entrances. It’s a shame that a shortcut to the hotel area is available but not widely known. If you’re staying overnight in Manila for a transit, staying in this adjacent hotel area can save you time the next day. If you have the opportunity, why not give it a try?
