Palawan, an island province in the Philippines, is accessible primarily by air through several airports with connections to major cities in the country. The main gateways for air travelers are Puerto Princesa International Airport (PPS) on Rizal Avenue and El Nido Airport (ENI) near Liminangcong Village, with the latter serving as a growing hub for visitors seeking direct access to northern Palawan. Flight prices range from approximately EUR 30 to EUR 100 for domestic routes, depending on the season and booking time. Transfers from airports to towns or resorts typically take between 15 minutes and 4 hours, depending on the destination. Understanding the available airports, flight routes, and transfer options helps ensure a smooth arrival in Palawan.
Where to stay in Palawan
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What airports can I fly into when visiting Palawan?
The main airports serving Palawan are Puerto Princesa International Airport (PPS) on Rizal Avenue for the provincial capital, El Nido Airport (ENI) near Liminangcong Village for northern Palawan, and Busuanga Airport (USU), also known as Francisco B. Reyes Airport, near the town of Coron.
Puerto Princesa International Airport is the largest and busiest on the island, situated about 4 kilometers east of Puerto Princesa city center along Rizal Avenue. It handles most domestic flights from Manila Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL), Mactan-Cebu International Airport (CEB), and other Philippine cities, with several airlines operating daily. El Nido Airport, near the barangay of Liminangcong, mainly serves direct flights from Manila and Cebu, providing quicker access to northern Palawan where boats depart for island tours around Bacuit Bay. Busuanga Airport, near Coron town, receives flights from Manila and Cebu as well.
Travelers should choose the airport based on their itinerary within Palawan. Those focusing on El Nido should fly directly to ENI, while visitors planning to visit Coron should use USU. Puerto Princesa acts as a central hub for southern and central Palawan or for connections to other destinations.
Which airlines operate flights to Palawan airports?
Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, and AirSWIFT are the primary carriers flying to Palawan's airports, with AirSWIFT operating direct routes to El Nido Airport near Liminangcong Village.
Philippine Airlines and Cebu Pacific run regular flights from Manila Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL) to Puerto Princesa International Airport and Busuanga Airport, offering multiple daily departures. Cebu Pacific often features lower fares but charges for extras like checked baggage and seat selection. AirSWIFT exclusively services El Nido Airport, flying from Manila and Cebu, providing a convenient yet more expensive option to reach northern Palawan.
Flight frequency changes with the season, with peak travel from November to May seeing more flights. Booking several weeks ahead can secure better prices, typically EUR 30 to EUR 80 one-way for domestic flights. It is wise to check airline schedules regularly, as changes may occur due to weather or operational reasons.
Map of El Nido
How do I transfer from Puerto Princesa Airport to El Nido?
Transfers from Puerto Princesa Airport on Rizal Avenue to El Nido town take roughly 4 to 5 hours by van or bus, covering about 230 kilometers along the national highway.
Vans and buses leave regularly from Puerto Princesa city center and can be arranged upon arrival or booked ahead. Private vans provide more comfort and flexibility, costing around EUR 40 to EUR 60 per vehicle, ideal for groups or families.
Shared shuttle vans cost about EUR 10 to EUR 15 per person and usually take 5 hours including stops. Buses are the cheapest, with fares around EUR 5 to EUR 8, but are less frequent and slower. Confirm pickup points and schedules in advance, especially during busy tourist seasons or holidays.
What transfer options are available from El Nido Airport to town or resorts?
Transfers from El Nido Airport near Liminangcong Village to the town center or nearby resorts usually take 15 to 30 minutes by tricycle or van, with fixed rates depending on the destination.
El Nido Airport lies about 4 kilometers from the town center along Barangay Liminangcong Road. Tricycles, a common local mode of transport, charge around EUR 1.50 to EUR 3 for the trip to town. Many resorts arrange private vans or shuttle services for transfers, with prices ranging from EUR 5 to EUR 20 depending on distance and vehicle type.
Coordinating with your accommodation in advance ensures timely pickups and avoids waiting. Shared shuttle vans operate during peak arrival times between the airport and town, offering an affordable option for solo travelers.
Are there direct international flights to Palawan?
Palawan currently has no direct international flights; most international travelers connect through Manila Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL) or Mactan-Cebu International Airport (CEB) before flying to Palawan's domestic airports.
International visitors usually arrive at these hubs, then take domestic flights to Puerto Princesa, El Nido, or Busuanga airports, available daily. Flight times from Manila to Palawan airports range from about 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes.
Allow sufficient connection time, especially when booking separate tickets, to accommodate delays and immigration procedures. Some airlines offer combined ticketing for international and domestic flights, simplifying transfers.
“If you’re flying into El Nido, it’s best to arrive early morning at Lio Airport, then take a tricycle from Brgy. Buena Suerte for around 150 pesos to town—it’s faster and cheaper than the van transfers, especially during midday heat.”
What should I know about baggage and luggage restrictions on flights to Palawan?
Baggage allowances on flights to Palawan vary by airline and fare type. Most low-cost carriers charge extra for checked luggage, typically allowing 7 kg for cabin baggage and 15 to 20 kg for checked bags.
Philippine Airlines usually includes 20 kg checked baggage on domestic flights, while Cebu Pacific's basic fares often exclude checked luggage, requiring an additional fee. AirSWIFT includes 10 kg cabin baggage and 15 kg checked baggage in their standard fare.
Check baggage policies before booking and consider packing light to avoid extra charges. Carry-on size limits are generally around 56 x 36 x 23 cm. Oversized or overweight bags may incur significant fees.
How reliable are the flights and transfers to Palawan during the rainy season?
Flights and transfers to Palawan may be disrupted by weather during the rainy season from June to October, causing delays or cancellations.
Palawan experiences tropical monsoon weather with heavy rains and occasional typhoons during this period. Airlines sometimes adjust schedules or cancel flights for safety. Road transfers can be slower due to wet, slippery conditions.
Monitor weather forecasts closely, allow extra time for connections, and consider travel insurance covering weather-related issues. Booking flexible tickets and transfers with reliable operators can help reduce inconvenience.
What are some local tips for saving money on airport transfers in Palawan?
To reduce costs on airport transfers in Palawan, choose shared shuttle vans instead of private vehicles, especially for the route between Puerto Princesa on Rizal Avenue and El Nido town. Shared vans usually cost EUR 10 to EUR 15 per person, much less than private options.
At El Nido Airport near Liminangcong Village, taking a tricycle to town is budget-friendly, with fares below EUR 3. Booking transfers in advance through local agencies or your accommodation can secure better prices and prevent last-minute increases.
Combining transfers with group tours or boat trips can also lower overall transport expenses. For detailed advice on getting around Palawan, see Getting Around Palawan: Vans, Boats & Tips.
