A Smooth Check-In: Navigating Mactan Airport Like A Pro

Mactan–Cebu International Airport (MCIA) is the second busiest airport in the Philippines. It is centrally located in the Visayas, serving as the main gateway to the Central Visayas region. The airport has two terminals, with Terminal 1 serving domestic flights and Terminal 2 serving international flights. Terminal 2, which opened in 2018, features European timber arches and a wave-like roof, evoking a tropical and resort-like feel. When checking in at MCIA, passengers can refer to the Flight Information Display System to locate their check-in counter. For connecting flights, passengers should proceed to the transfer desk between domestic and international arrivals.

Check-in procedures for foreign nationals

To check in at Mactan-Cebu International Airport, foreign nationals must adhere to the following procedures:

Firstly, all foreign nationals must possess a valid national passport or any other internationally recognised travel document that establishes their nationality and identity, including a photograph. It is also advisable for foreign nationals to check the applicable fee for a Philippine Visa with the Philippine Embassy in their country and obtain a valid visa before travelling to the Philippines.

Upon arrival at the airport, foreign nationals must observe the applicable arrival protocols in adherence to the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF) protocols. These protocols vary depending on vaccination status.

For fully vaccinated foreign nationals, the following procedures must be followed:

• Present proof of full vaccination. This includes having received the second dose in a 2-dose series or a single-dose COVID-19 vaccine more than 14 days before departure from the country of origin/port of embarkation. Acceptable proof of vaccination includes the World Health Organization International Certificate of Vaccination and Prophylaxis, a National or State Manual/Digital Vaccination Certificate, or other proof permitted by the IATF.
• Register for an account on the eTravel website (https://etravel.gov.ph/) within three days before the scheduled arrival date at Mactan-Cebu International Airport. Registration is free of charge.

For unvaccinated or partially vaccinated foreign nationals, the following procedures apply:

• Travelers aged 15 and older must present a negative Rapid Antigen Test result, supervised and certified by a healthcare professional, taken within 24 hours before departure from the country of origin. If unable to present a negative pre-departure test, travellers will be required to undergo a laboratory-based Antigen Test upon arrival at the airport.
• Unvaccinated or partially vaccinated foreign nationals must also register for an account on the eTravel website within three days before their scheduled arrival date.

Please note that these procedures are subject to change, and it is recommended to refer to the Mactan-Cebu International Airport website for the most up-to-date information.

Check-in procedures for Filipino citizens

Mactan International Airport is a regular airport of entry for international flights arriving in the Philippines. Here is a step-by-step guide to checking in for Filipino citizens:

Before Arrival:

• Ensure all necessary documents are in order, including proof of vaccination status.
• Complete the online MCIA Passenger Arrival Registration Form within five days before your scheduled arrival. A Barcode/Travel Reference Number (TRN) will be sent to your email, which you must keep until your scheduled swab test.
• For unvaccinated or partially vaccinated individuals, a negative RT-PCR test taken within 48 hours of departure is required.

On Arrival:

• Undergo the mandatory briefing by the Bureau of Quarantine (BOQ).
• Proceed to the Validation Counter and present the Barcode/Travel Reference Number and Health Declaration Form.
• Go through thermal scanning by the BOQ.
• Clear immigration by proceeding to the Immigration counter and submitting the Immigration Arrival Card.
• Proceed to the designated counters: OWWA Counter for OFWs, or the Cashier counter for non-OFW Filipinos and foreign nationals.
• Claim your baggage from the assigned reclaim belt.
• Proceed to the designated waiting area and wait for a representative from the respective agencies for Customs clearance.
• Pass through the Customs counter for clearance.
• Transfer to your designated vehicle with your respective agency representative for hotel or quarantine accommodation drop-off.

Day of Swab Test:

On the day of your swab test, which is scheduled for the fifth day from your arrival date, submit the printed barcode to the medical personnel and undergo the test at your designated quarantine facility.

After Test Results:

Results are typically released within 24-48 hours via email. If the result is positive, the BOQ will coordinate with the passenger for specific instructions. If negative, passengers will coordinate with their LGU for further instructions on transport and completion of the remainder of the 14-day quarantine.

Please note that these procedures are subject to change and it is always advisable to check the latest updates on the Mactan-Cebu International Airport website and with relevant authorities before your travel.

Check-in counters and locations

Mactan–Cebu International Airport has two passenger terminals. Terminal 1, which was built in 1990, serves as the airport's domestic terminal. Terminal 2 is the newest airport terminal and is exclusive to international flights. However, due to the aftermath of Typhoon Odette in December 2021, it temporarily facilitated both domestic and international flights until most parts of Terminal 1 were fully repaired in June 2022.

Terminal 1 has a floor area of 38,525 square meters (414,680 sq ft). It has six jet bridges and twelve remote parking spaces for aircraft. There are six baggage conveyor belts in the baggage claim area. Renovations were made to Terminal 1 in 2019, which included the expansion of the pre-departure area and improved flight information displays.

Terminal 2 occupies an area of 65,500 square meters (705,000 sq ft) and has four check-in halls with 48 check-in counters in the departures area, which is expandable to 72. The terminal also has seven jet bridges that are expandable to 12, 12 escalators, 15 elevators, duty-free shops, and a departure lobby. The modular design of Terminal 2 allows for progressive expansion, with a fundamental building block structured for maximum adaptability to future development.

To find your check-in counter, you can refer to the Flight Information Display System or ask an airline representative.

Check-in procedures for connecting flights

When travelling with connecting flights, there are a few procedures to be aware of. Firstly, a connecting flight is when you fly on two or more planes to reach your final destination. This may be because there are no direct flights available, or because it is a cheaper option. When you book a connecting flight on a single ticket, the procedure is usually straightforward. You will typically receive all your boarding passes when you check in for your first flight. After that, you simply need to follow the signs for connections or transfers at each connecting airport and obey any posted instructions. Your baggage will usually be checked through to your final destination, but this may vary depending on the country and the airline. It is best to check with the check-in agent when dropping off your bags.

If you have booked your connecting flights separately, the procedure is different. In this case, you will likely have to collect and re-check your luggage at each intermediate point. Additionally, you may need to enter the country you are travelling through, which means a visa may be required even if you are only in the airport. It is important to check the visa rules before booking your flight. When booking separate flights, it is also crucial to allow for enough time between connections. A minimum of one hour for domestic flights and two hours for international flights is recommended, but this may vary depending on the airport and other factors.

When travelling with connecting flights, it is important to allow for enough time to reach your next gate, especially if you need to pass through security or customs. Speaking to an agent if you are running late can be helpful, as they can inform your next gate or advise if you need to rebook. Finding your gate should be your priority, even if you want to visit airport lounges or shops. Missing a reasonable connection due to misjudging your free time may result in the airline being less likely to rebook you at no cost.

If you miss a connecting flight due to a delay, the airline will typically rebook you on the next available flight at no additional cost. However, if you have booked separate tickets on different airlines, the missed connection may be your responsibility, and you may need to purchase a new ticket. In some cases, you may be entitled to flight delay compensation if your flight was delayed or cancelled.

Checked baggage allowances

When checking in at Mactan-Cebu International Airport, it's important to be aware of the baggage allowances and restrictions. Each airline has its own specific rules and regulations regarding checked baggage, so it's always a good idea to check with your airline beforehand. Here is a detailed guide to help you navigate the checked baggage process at Mactan Airport:

Baggage Allowances:

• The number of checked bags you are allowed to bring will depend on your airline and your specific ticket type. Some airlines may allow up to 5 or even 10 checked bags, especially for certain status members or military personnel.
• For most flights, the standard checked bag allowance is one bag per person. However, this can vary based on your destination and the airline you are flying with.
• When travelling with multiple connecting flights, the baggage rules of the first flight or the airline operating the first flight between travel zones will typically apply to your entire itinerary.
• Some airlines offer free checked bags for certain status members or credit cardholders. For example, American Airlines offers free checked bags for eligible AAdvantage credit cardholders, AAdvantage Gold status members, and GOL Diamond Smiles members.
• Military personnel may also be entitled to enhanced baggage allowances, with some airlines offering up to 3 free checked bags for active military members and their dependents.

Weight and Size Restrictions:

• The weight and size restrictions for checked bags can vary by airline and destination. For most regions, the standard weight limit is 50 lbs (23 kg) per bag, while the size limit is 62 inches (158 cm).
• For First or Business Class, the weight limit may be higher, at 70 lbs (32 kg) for free bags and 50 lbs (23 kg) for excess charged bags.
• Some airlines may have different weight and size restrictions for flights to and from specific regions. For example, American Airlines has a weight limit of 70 lbs (32 kg) per bag for flights to and from Cuba.
• Oversized and overweight bags may incur additional charges. It's important to contact your airline beforehand to understand their specific policies and any associated fees.

Restricted and Prohibited Items:

• It is essential to be aware of restricted and prohibited items when packing your checked baggage. Dangerous goods, disabling devices, sharp objects, stunning devices, and flammable substances are typically prohibited.
• Firearms and ammunition are generally allowed only in checked baggage and must comply with local laws.
• Liquids, aerosols, and gels are typically restricted to containers of 100ml or less and must be packed in accordance with airline guidelines.
• Each country has its own customs regulations regarding the import and export of certain items. It is the passenger's responsibility to declare any taxable goods and comply with customs regulations to avoid confiscation, fines, or penalties.

Remember to always check the specific baggage policies of your airline before packing and allow for additional time at the airport for any necessary security screenings.

Frequently asked questions