โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
45
minutes
Domestic โ International
90
minutes
International โ Domestic
90
minutes
International โ International
120
minutes
Interline Connections
120
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
Laoag International Airport (LAO), identified by its ICAO code RPLI, is currently undergoing a massive โฑ2 billion modernization and expansion project aimed at elevating it to a major international hub for Northern Luzon. The facility operates from a passenger terminal building that was significantly rehabilitated in mid-2025, featuring a striking new arrival hall with modern skylights and distinctive architectural arcs. This expansion has increased the total passenger capacity to nearly 1,000 simultaneously, supporting the Philippine government's goal of establishing Laoag as a dynamic growth center and a strategic gateway between Southeast and East Asia.
The upgraded terminal provides a range of modern amenities, including a new baggage carousel, specialized nursing rooms, and a 24/7 medical unit. For international travelers, the facility features a dedicated duty-free shop in the arrival area and is currently implementing a โฑ1.3 billion border security project to install biometric E-Gates by late 2025. While the airport does not house branded lounges, premium VIP services are available through coordinating agencies like airssist. Inside, passengers can access various restaurants offering local Ilocano cuisine, retail souvenir shops, and high-speed free Wi-Fi, all within a fully air-conditioned environment designed for the tropical climate.
Infrastructure at LAO is entering a pioneering phase, with the facility poised to become the first solar-powered airport in the Philippines for its runway and navigational lighting. The airfield features a reinforced asphalt runway and a new parallel taxiway capable of accommodating wide-body aircraft like the Airbus A330, enabling direct rotations to hubs in Honolulu, Hong Kong, and Seoul. Ground transportation is well-supported by dedicated taxi ranks, jeepneys, and car rental services like Avis, providing a 15-minute connection to the Laoag City center. As of 2026, the facility continues to maintain its night-rated status for 24/7 operations, ensuring it remains a critical node for both regional commerce and international tourism in Ilocos Norte.
๐ Connection Tips
Allow ample time for transfers and check current terminal info. The facility maintains flexible scheduling to accommodate weather-related delays common in the region. Ground transportation options include rental vehicles and taxi services, though advance booking is recommended. Seasonal weather patterns significantly impact flight operations, requiring travelers to maintain flexible schedules. The airport's strategic location serves multiple communities across the surrounding region. Emergency services and medical evacuation capabilities are maintained year-round for community safety. Local aviation services include flight training, aircraft maintenance, and specialized charter operations. Weather monitoring systems provide essential data for safe flight operations in challenging conditions. The facility coordinates closely with regional air traffic control for optimal flight routing. Baggage handling procedures are streamlined due to the airport's focused operational scope.
โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
60
minutes
Domestic โ International
90
minutes
Interline Connections
120
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
Allah Valley Airport (AAV) is a domestic airport located in Surallah, South Cotabato, Philippines, serving as a regional air facility primarily for general aviation, private charters, and occasional local flights. The airport does not host scheduled commercial airline services. Its terminal facilities are extremely basic, typically consisting of a rudimentary structure or a designated open area that functions as a waiting and staging area for passengers. The layout is minimalist, offering direct access from the small ground area to the tarmac and aircraft.
The airport features one unlighted asphalt runway (16-34) that is approximately 1,340 meters (4,396 feet) long. Operations are limited to daylight hours, specifically from 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM local time. Due to its general aviation focus, there are no complex interconnected terminals or extensive ground facilities; all essential services are conducted within this singular, basic setup. Walking times from the entrance to the aircraft are negligible, usually mere seconds, highlighting its functional role for regional connectivity.
Amenities at Allah Valley Airport are exceptionally sparse. Passengers should not expect airline lounges, dedicated dining facilities, or retail shops. While there might be basic waiting areas, travelers are strongly advised to bring all necessary supplies, including food, water, and personal items. Parking facilities for both short-term and long-term stays are available. Security procedures are minimal, consistent with a small, general aviation airfield, primarily involving visual checks and coordination with pilots or charter operators.
๐ Connection Tips
Connections at Allah Valley Airport (AAV) are exclusively through general aviation and private charters, as the airport does not have scheduled commercial passenger services. Any "connections" made here are typically transfers between private flights or transitions to ground transportation. For travelers seeking to connect to the broader commercial aviation network in the Philippines, the primary gateway is General Santos International Airport (GES) or Francisco Bangoy International Airport (DVO) in Davao.\n\nIf your travel plan involves flying into AAV via a private charter and then connecting to a commercial flight, you must arrange ground transportation to GES, which is the closest major airport. The journey from Surallah to General Santos City can take approximately 1-2 hours by road, depending on traffic conditions. Public transport options like jeepneys, tricycles, and taxis are available around AAV, but pre-arranging your transfer to GES is highly recommended to ensure timely connections.\n\nWhen planning multi-leg journeys, it is crucial to coordinate all segments directly with your private charter operator and commercial airlines. Do not assume inter-airport transfers or baggage handling. If arriving internationally, customs and immigration procedures must be completed at a designated international airport in the Philippines, such as Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL) in Manila or Mactan-Cebu International Airport (CEB) before proceeding to AAV.
โ Back to Laoag International Airport