San Vicente Airport

The San Vicente Airport (SWL) is not merely a runway on Palawan Island, but your personal gateway to one of the most pristine corners of the Philippines. Opened to boost tourism in this paradise, it saves travelers the long journey from Puerto Princesa, offering direct access to the famous 14-kilometre Long Beach. This modern and compact air hub is the key to a secluded holiday amidst azure waters and white sands.

The main advantage of San Vicente Airport is its strategic location. It is situated just a few minutes' drive from the region's main gem — Long Beach, considered one of the longest white sand beaches in Asia. By flying here, you save between 3 to 4 hours of land travel compared to arriving at the larger airport in Puerto Princesa.

Despite its modest size, the airport offers comfortable conditions for passengers. Being relatively new, it is equipped with a modern terminal, and its compactness guarantees rapid processing of all procedures — from check-in to baggage claim. It is the ideal choice for those who value their time and wish to immerse themselves in an atmosphere of serene relaxation as quickly as possible, bypassing the crowds and bustle of large tourist hubs.

Contacting the administration of a small regional airport, such as the one in San Vicente, can be challenging. Most flight-related issues are resolved through the airlines. Nevertheless, here is the basic contact information that may be useful.

• Official Website: San Vicente Airport (SWL) does not have its own official website. Up-to-date information on its status is usually published on the resources of the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP).
• Inquiry Phone Number: There is no direct public phone number for the airport. For questions related to your flight (schedule, delays, baggage rules), it is recommended to contact your airline directly.
• Airport Address: Airport Road, Barangay San Isidro, San Vicente, Palawan, Philippines.
• Email: A dedicated email for passenger inquiries is not provided.
• Social Media: Official social media pages for the airport are currently not maintained. Beware of unofficial accounts.
• Lost Luggage Information: If your luggage has been lost or damaged, you must immediately contact your airline's Lost & Found service. Airport staff do not handle these matters.
• Passenger Support Contacts: Passenger support within the terminal is provided by airline representatives at check-in counters and boarding gates.

San Vicente Airport (SWL) is the gateway to one of the most picturesque corners of the Philippines, the famous Long Beach. Getting to it from the city centre of San Vicente and the surrounding areas is quite simple, although the choice of transport differs from what travellers are used to in metropolises. The airport is located just a few kilometres from the town centre (Poblacion), making the trip quick and inexpensive.

The primary and most colourful mode of transport for short trips here are tricycles — motorcycles with a passenger sidecar. This is essentially the local taxi. A trip from your hotel in the centre of San Vicente to the airport will take just 10-15 minutes. The fare is negotiable but usually costs around 50–150 Philippine Pesos. Always agree on the price with the driver before starting the journey and carry small cash notes for payment.

For maximum convenience, the best option is to book a transfer in advance. Most hotels and resorts in San Vicente offer this service to their guests. You will be met at the airport upon arrival or picked up from the hotel at the required time before departure. If you are travelling from other parts of Palawan Island, such as Puerto Princesa or El Nido, you can use shared or private shuttle vans, which will take you directly to the town, from where the airport is easily accessible by tricycle.

If you value independence and plan to actively explore the surroundings, including the famous 14-kilometre Long Beach, it is worth considering transport rental. In San Vicente itself, it is easy to rent a scooter or motorcycle — a popular and convenient way to get around. Car rental is available at larger transport hubs, such as Puerto Princesa International Airport, and from there you can drive to San Vicente, enjoying the island views along the way.

San Vicente Airport has a parking area. Given the small size of the airport, this is typically a simple open-air lot located in immediate proximity to the terminal. It is convenient for those arriving by rented transport, as well as for dropping off and picking up passengers. Difficulties with finding a parking space rarely arise.

In conclusion, here are a few tips: always book transfers in advance, especially during the high season. Flights to San Vicente Airport can be irregular, so be sure to check the schedule with your airline. Many travellers also fly into neighbouring airports, such as Puerto Princesa International Airport or El Nido Airport, and then reach San Vicente by land transport, which in itself is an exciting journey across Palawan Island.

The San Vicente Airport (SWL) is a modern and compact aviation hub characterised by a simple and clear structure. It is designed for the convenience of tourists arriving at the resort of the same name, so navigating it will not cause difficulties even for inexperienced travellers.

The airport operates with just one passenger terminal, which serves both arriving and departing flights. Thanks to this, you will not have to worry about transferring between different buildings. All infrastructure is located under one roof and within walking distance.

The terminal layout is extremely simple. Upon entry, you find yourself in a general area with several check-in counters. Immediately behind it is the security checkpoint leading to a small but comfortable departure lounge. Departure and arrival zones are clearly separated: after landing, passengers are directed to a separate part of the building for baggage claim. The entire path from the entrance to the boarding gate or from the aircraft stairs to the city exit takes minimal time.

Completing all formalities, including flight check-in and security screening, usually proceeds very quickly — on average taking no more than 20-30 minutes. However, despite the airport's compactness, it is recommended to arrive strictly 1.5-2 hours before departure to avoid rushing and to check in luggage calmly.

The main tip for navigation is simply to follow the signs. Due to the small size of the terminal, it is practically impossible to get lost here. All key points — from check-in counters to boarding gates and baggage claim areas — are located in plain sight and just a few steps away from each other.

San Vicente Airport (SWL) is a relatively new and modern transport hub, the history of which is closely linked to the development of tourism on Palawan Island. Unlike many airports with a century of history, its creation was dictated by the need to make one of the most picturesque corners of the Philippines more accessible to travellers.

The idea of building an airport in San Vicente originated with the aim of unlocking the tourism potential of the region, famous for its 14-kilometre Long Beach. Construction work began in 2009, but the project faced a number of delays. The official opening and inauguration of the airport took place on 10 May 2017. However, the true birthday for commercial aviation was 28 June 2018, when the first Philippine Airlines flight from Clark landed here. This event marked the beginning of a new era for tourism in the region.

The main achievement and feature of the airport is its modern infrastructure. The runway, over 1,600 metres long, was designed to accommodate medium-haul aircraft such as the Airbus A320. This allowed for the launch of direct flights from major cities, significantly reducing travel time for tourists who previously had to travel to San Vicente for several hours by land from Puerto Princesa. Thus, the airport became not just a transport facility, but a key element opening the secluded beauty of northern Palawan to the world.

The San Vicente Airport (SWL) is a modern yet compact terminal created for the convenience of tourists arriving at the resort. Services here are focused on the most essential needs of passengers. Inside, you will find several small cafés and snack bars where you can have a bite to eat or drink coffee while waiting for your flight. Souvenir shops offering local crafts and memorable gifts from Palawan Island are also in operation.

For comfortable waiting, convenient seats are provided in the general terminal hall. Specialised VIP lounges are absent. Passengers can access Wi-Fi and find stands for charging mobile devices, although their number may be limited. It is recommended to carry a portable power bank in case the airport is busy.

Financial services at the airport are basic. An ATM may be installed here, but for currency exchange, it is better to visit banks in major cities or in the capital of the Philippines, Manila. A medical post operates within the terminal territory to provide first aid. For passengers with small children, mother and child rooms may be available where you can take care of your baby in a quiet environment.

The airport is equipped to receive passengers with reduced mobility: there are ramps and specially equipped restrooms. If necessary, airline staff will provide additional assistance. There are no hotels directly on the airport grounds. The nearest accommodation options — from cosy guesthouses to luxurious resorts — are located in the town of San Vicente itself and along the famous Long Beach, just a few minutes' drive away.

Specialised business centres and conference rooms are not provided at San Vicente Airport. Business travellers should plan to hold meetings and events at their hotels or in specially equipped venues at the resort.

San Vicente Airport (SWL) is a small and modern regional airport, oriented primarily towards serving tourists. Dining options here correspond to its size and passenger traffic, so one should not expect a wide variety of restaurants as found in major international hubs. Nevertheless, passengers can find everything necessary here to have a snack before departure.

The majority of food establishments are located in the public zone of the terminal (landside), that is, before passing security control. Typically, these are small cafés or snack bars offering a basic assortment. Here you can drink coffee, tea, juices, or soft drinks. Sandwiches, pastries, and light snacks are usually available for a bite. This is a convenient place to pass the time while waiting for flight check-in.

In the departure zone (airside), after passing screening, the selection is usually even more limited and may come down to a small kiosk with drinks and packaged snacks. Therefore, if you wish to have a more substantial meal, it is better to do so before entering the secure area. The opening hours of establishments depend directly on the flight schedule — they are open when there are passengers in the airport and may close during quiet periods.

Regarding specific dietary needs, finding vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or Halal dishes at San Vicente Airport will be extremely difficult. Passengers with strict dietary restrictions are strongly recommended to bring food from the city. Prices at the airport are expectedly higher than in establishments in San Vicente itself, but remain acceptable.

Recommendations:

• For a quick snack: grab a coffee and local pastry at the café in the public area.
• For a full meal: the best solution would be to eat at one of the numerous restaurants in San Vicente town or at your hotel before travelling to the airport, as the selection of hot meals in the terminal itself is practically non-existent.

Travelling through San Vicente Airport can be an easy and pleasant beginning or end to your adventure in Palawan if you consider a few points in advance. Here are some tips to help you navigate this small but important transport hub.

Arrival and Check-in: For domestic flights, it is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 1.5-2 hours before departure. Although San Vicente Airport is not as large as capital hubs, queues can occur during the tourist season. Complete online check-in in advance if your airline provides this option to save time. Keep your passport and ticket ready to speed up the process.

Security Check and Seat Selection: Screening procedures here are standard. To avoid delays, pack all liquids over 100 ml in your checked luggage in advance. When choosing a seat on the plane, note that flights to and from Palawan offer stunning views of the islands and turquoise waters. A window seat (especially one not over the wing) will give you unforgettable impressions and excellent photos.

Hand Luggage and Baggage: Standard security rules apply here too: sharp objects are prohibited, and liquids must be in containers up to 100 ml. Please note that local airlines may have stricter restrictions on the weight and size of hand luggage, so be sure to check your carrier's rules before flying to avoid extra charges.

Transfers and Customs: San Vicente Airport serves mainly domestic flights. If you are flying on an international flight with a connection, you will pass customs and passport control at the first airport of arrival in the Philippines, for example, in Manila or Cebu. Allow sufficient time for connections at major airports, as a change of terminal may be required.

Savings and Flight Delays: To save money, book flight tickets in advance and consider travelling light with only hand luggage. Prices for food and drinks at the airport may be higher, so you can bring a small snack with you. In case of a flight delay, first contact your airline representative for information. In a small airport, opportunities for long waits are limited, so a charged power bank, a book, or a downloaded film will help pass the time comfortably.