Bicol Airport

Bicol International Airport is not just a transport hub, but a true landmark of the region, often referred to as the "Most Scenic Gateway to the Philippines." Located in the municipality of Daraga, this modern airport offers travelers a unique opportunity to begin exploring the beauties of Albay province immediately upon landing. The main feature of the terminal is the stunning panoramic view of the majestic Mayon Volcano, which opens up right through the terminal's massive glass walls.

The airport was opened quite recently, in 2021, replacing the old Legazpi Airport, and was designed with the region's resort atmosphere in mind. The interiors are finished in warm tones using wood and stone, creating a sense of coziness and relaxation that is so uncharacteristic of ordinary industrial hubs. Bicol serves both local residents and numerous tourists eager to see the volcano's perfect cone or swim with whale sharks in Donsol.

Airport Features and Highlights:

• "Scenic Gateway": The airport is specifically designed to highlight the beauty of the famous Mayon Volcano. Passengers can admire it from both the runway and the waiting area thanks to panoramic glazing.
• Resort Design: The terminal is designed in the style of a "tropical resort." Instead of cold steel and concrete, natural textures and soft lighting predominate here, immediately setting a holiday mood.
• Modern Technology: The airport is equipped with contactless check-in and baggage drop systems, making the process of passing formalities fast and safe.
• Safety and Location: The new airport is located inland on an elevated plateau, making it more protected from typhoons and floods compared to the old airport, which was located near the coast.
• Convenient Logistics: You can reach Legazpi city center from the terminal by shuttle, taxi, or tricycle in about 20–30 minutes, making it a convenient starting point for trips throughout the Bicol region.

If you need to contact the administration of Bicol Airport, please use the following contact information. It is recommended to check the relevance of the data on official resources, as they may change.

• Official Airport Website: The airport is managed by the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP). Official information is published on their website: caap.gov.ph. A separate website for Bicol Airport may not exist.
• Information Desk Phone: For information, you can contact the regional CAAP Area Center 5 office by phone: +63 (52) 483-2868. Please note that waiting times may be long.
• Airport Address: Sitio Alobo, Barangay Marayag, Daraga, Albay, Philippines.
• Email: A dedicated email address for general passenger inquiries is usually not published. For communication, it is recommended to use the phone or official social media pages.
• Social Media: Current news and announcements are often published on the official Facebook page of the airport or the pages of the Department of Transportation of the Philippines.
• Lost Luggage Information: In case of loss or damage to luggage, you should first contact your airline's representative at the airport. If the airline cannot assist, you can contact the airport administration via the general phone number.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For questions related to tickets, flight check-in, and special assistance, please contact your airline directly. For general questions about airport infrastructure, use the information desk phone number listed above.

Getting to Bicol International Airport (DRP), which serves the town of Daraga and neighboring Legazpi, is quite simple thanks to several modes of transport. The choice depends on your budget, amount of luggage, and comfort preferences. On average, the trip from the central areas of Legazpi or Daraga takes from 15 to 30 minutes depending on traffic conditions.

Public Transport is the most budget-friendly method. In the Philippines, "jeepneys" (local minibuses) and three-wheeled motorcycle taxis, known as "tricycles," are popular. They run along main roads and can get you close to the airport, although a short walk to the terminal may be required. This is a great way to experience local culture, but it may not be the most convenient if you have a lot of luggage. The cost of the trip will be minimal, but be prepared for the lack of air conditioning and possible transfers.

Taxi and Transfer are the most comfortable and direct options. You can hail a taxi on the street or book a car via mobile apps if available in the region. This is the ideal choice for travelers with bulky luggage or those who value convenience. The cost will be significantly higher than public transport, but you will travel door-to-door without any hassle. It is recommended to agree on the price with the taxi driver in advance or use apps with a fixed fare. You can also book a pre-arranged hotel transfer, which guarantees timely arrival for your flight.

For those who prefer independence, car rental is available. Rental counters can be found both at the airport itself and in Legazpi City. This gives you the freedom to move around the entire Bicol region. If you arrive at the airport in your own or a rented car, parking is provided on the premises. There are usually zones for both short-term and long-term parking, which is convenient if you plan to leave the car for the duration of your trip.

When planning a route through the Bicol region, it is useful to know about other nearby airports that can serve as a convenient alternative. Depending on your destination, consider flights to Naga Airport (WNP), Virac Airport (VRC), or Masbate Airport (MBT). Slightly further away are Catarman Airport (CRM) and Calbayog Airport (CYP). Checking schedules at these air hubs can help you find more flexible or economical options for island travel.

Bicol International Airport (DRP) is a modern and well-organized transport hub. Its main feature is a simple and clear structure, which makes navigation easy even for those visiting for the first time. The airport consists of one passenger terminal serving both domestic and international flights, eliminating the need to transfer between different buildings.

The terminal layout is intuitive and meets international standards. Departure and arrival zones are logically separated to optimize passenger flows:

• Departure Zone is usually located on the upper level. Here you will find airline check-in counters, baggage drop-off points, security screening areas, and a spacious waiting hall with boarding gates.
• Arrival Zone is located on the lower level. After disembarking, passengers enter the baggage claim hall, pass through customs control (for international flights), and exit into the general meeting area where taxis and other transport are available.

Navigating the terminal will not be difficult thanks to clear signs in English and Filipino. Since there is only one terminal and it is quite compact, you will easily find all necessary services. The time required to go through all procedures — from check-in to boarding — is usually short. It is recommended to arrive at the airport 1.5-2 hours before a domestic flight and 2.5-3 hours before an international one to calmly go through all formalities, especially during peak hours.

The history of Bicol International Airport (DRP) is not a tale of decades of operation, but rather a fascinating chronicle of the creation of a modern and strategically important transport hub. This airport is one of the newest in the Philippines, and its emergence marks a new era for tourism and the development of the entire Bicol region.

The official opening of the airport for domestic flights took place on October 7, 2021, with international services launching later. The project was conceived as a replacement for the old Legazpi Airport, which was located in close proximity to the famous Mayon Volcano. Although the view of the volcano was impressive, its activity often led to flight cancellations due to ash emissions, creating safety risks and inconvenience for passengers.

The construction of Bicol Airport in the town of Daraga became one of the most ambitious infrastructure projects in the region. The path from concept to realization was long and took over a decade, but the result exceeded all expectations. Instead of modernizing the old one, a decision was made to build a modern complex from scratch, meeting all international safety standards. The terminal is designed taking into account seismic activity and frequent typhoons characteristic of this area.

The main achievement of the airport was gaining the status of the first international airport in the Bicol region. This opened direct gates for foreign tourists wishing to explore the unique nature and culture of this part of the Philippines. The airport is equipped with a runway capable of accommodating larger aircraft, which significantly increased its capacity compared to its predecessor.

One of the most interesting facts related to the airport is its unofficial title as the "most scenic gateway to the country." Despite being moved to a safer distance, a stunning panoramic view of the perfect cone of Mayon Volcano still opens up from its terminal. Thus, the history of Bicol Airport is a story of how modern planning and engineering allowed for the creation of not only a safe and efficient but also an incredibly beautiful transport hub.

Bicol International Airport (DRP), being one of the newest and most modern airports in the Philippines, offers passengers a wide range of services and amenities for a comfortable wait for their flight. The spacious and bright terminal is designed with all travelers' needs in mind.

While waiting for departure, you can visit cafes and restaurants serving both local Bicolano cuisine and familiar international snacks. In the shops, you can purchase souvenirs, travel goods, and Duty Free products. For a more comfortable rest, premium lounges and VIP zones are available where you can relax in silence.

Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, allowing you to stay connected or work. Numerous power outlets and USB ports are equipped for charging electronic devices. Financial matters can be handled using ATMs and currency exchange counters located within the airport building.

To ensure the safety and health of passengers, a medical clinic is in operation, ready to provide first aid. Travelers with children can use the mother and child room. The airport is fully equipped for the needs of passengers with disabilities: there are ramps, elevators, and specially equipped restrooms, and staff are ready to provide necessary assistance.

Although hotels are not located directly within the terminal building, there are several accommodation options in the immediate vicinity of the airport. For business travelers, conference rooms and business services may be available, allowing for meetings or work in a quiet environment before departure.

Bicol Airport (DRP) offers passengers various options for a snack or a full meal, allowing you to experience local cuisine right before departure. Most dining establishments are concentrated in the main terminal building and are available both in the public area and in the departure zone after passing security control.

Once in Bicol, be sure to try famous regional dishes. Look for cafes offering `Bicol Express` — a spicy stew made of pork in coconut milk with chili peppers, or `laing` (also known as `pinangat`) — taro leaves cooked in coconut sauce. You can also find snacks and desserts made from pili nuts here, which are the region's hallmark.

In the `public zone` (before security control), coffee shops and small kiosks with snacks are usually located. This is an ideal place for those seeing off passengers or arriving at the airport early. Here you can drink coffee, eat a sandwich, or buy light snacks for the road. In the `departure zone` (after passing control), the selection is generally wider. Here you will find cafes where you can order hot meals, and small bars with drinks and snacks to spend time comfortably waiting for boarding.

Regarding special dietary needs, the selection may be limited. It is recommended to check the ingredients of dishes with the staff. In many cafes, you can find rice and vegetable-based dishes that may suit `vegetarians`. However, finding certified Halal, gluten-free, or vegan options might be difficult. The price range is mostly average, with affordable options for a quick snack and more expensive items in full-service restaurants.

Most food establishments at the airport operate according to the flight schedule, opening early in the morning and closing after the departure of the last plane. If you are short on time, kiosks with ready-made sandwiches or local pastries will be the best choice. If time permits, you can enjoy a full lunch in one of the cafes in the departure zone, tasting the authentic flavors of the Bicol region one last time.

To ensure your journey through Bicol Airport goes as smoothly as possible, make use of our tips. This modern airport, serving as a gateway to the region, is convenient and intuitive for passengers, but knowing some nuances will help save time and reduce stress.

Arrival Time and Check-in: It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 2-3 hours before a domestic flight departure and 3-4 hours before an international one. This time will be sufficient to complete all formalities without rushing. To save time, complete online check-in on your airline's website and save the boarding pass on your mobile device.

Security Checks and Seat Selection: Security procedures at Bicol Airport are standard. Prepare in advance: remove all electronic devices and liquids from your carry-on luggage. If seat selection is available, try to get a window seat. During takeoff and landing, breathtaking views of the famous Mayon Volcano — the perfect cone for which Albay province is famous — open up from here.

Baggage Rules: Liquids in containers no larger than 100 ml, packed in a transparent bag, are allowed in carry-on luggage. Sharp objects, flammable substances, and other dangerous items are prohibited. Always check current rules on your airline's website to avoid unpleasant surprises.

Customs Control and Transit: Upon arrival on an international flight, you will have to pass customs control. You must fill out a declaration and, if you are carrying goods subject to declaration, pass through the "Red Channel". For transit passengers, it is important to clarify in advance whether luggage needs to be collected and re-checked. There are signs in the airport to help you navigate.

Saving Money and Flight Delays: To save money, bring an empty water bottle with you (it can be filled after security screening) and light snacks. In case of a flight delay, contact your airline representative for information on flight status and possible compensation (e.g., meal vouchers). The terminal has cafes and rest areas where you can comfortably spend time waiting.