Bancasi Airport (BXU)

Connecting through Butuan Airport (BXU), also known as Bancasi Airport, is a common strategic move for travelers heading to Surigao City or Siargao when direct flights to Sayak Airport (IAO) are full. Upon exiting the small terminal, you will be met by various transport operators. For a direct 'connection' to Surigao City, vans wait in the airport parking lot; they cost approximately ₱250–₱400 per person and take about 2.5 to 3 hours. If you are heading to Siargao, remember that the last ferry from Surigao Port typically departs between 3:30 PM and 4:00 PM. If your flight arrives in Butuan after midday, you will likely need to stay overnight in Surigao City before catching the morning fast craft. For those heading into Butuan City center or the Langihan Bus Terminal, the most budget-friendly option is the R4 line multicab, which costs roughly ₱20 and takes 20 minutes. Tricycles are also available but require negotiation; expect to pay ₱150–₱300 for a direct drop-off at city hotels. For larger groups, private van rentals to Surigao or even the Bucas Grande (Sohoton Cove) junction can be arranged for ₱3,500–₱4,500. A unique tip for frequent travelers is to utilize the Grab app to benchmark local prices, though active drivers may not always be available directly at the airport gates. While the terminal is small and lacks a dedicated transit lounge, it offers basic cafes and souvenir shops where you can wait for your onward ground transport. Always account for Mindanao’s unpredictable weather, as heavy tropical rains can occasionally slow down road transit to the ports. BXU remains the most reliable year-round entry point for the Caraga region, offering a consistent alternative to the more weather-sensitive smaller island airfields.

🌟 View Real-Time Airport Reviews

See current Google Maps reviews, ratings, photos, and traveler experiences for Bancasi Airport (BXU).