Manila, the capital city of the Philippines and arguably its premier destination, forms the core of Metro Manila. This thriving city of more than 19 million people is home to many industries and establishments ranging from primary commodities to luxury items.

Officially only the Ninoy Aquino International Airport services Manila and its metropolitan area however the Diosdado Macapagal International Airport in Angeles City provides aviation services to Metro Manila as well.

The Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) has three separate terminals for flightsThe NAIA Terminal caters to all international flights for non-Philippine Airlines airplanes and is more comfortable than the rest because of its clientele. The domestic terminal services all domestic flights for non-Philippine Airlines planes. Airlines using this terminal include Cebu Pacific, Zest Air, South East Asian Airlines, PAL Express and Air Philippines. Located in the terminal are various establishments selling consumer items along with airline offices and banks to serve passenger needs. The Centennial Terminal is reserved exclusively for Philippine Airlines' (PAL) domestic and international flights. The Centennial Terminal has a lounge available for passengers in business and first class and the terminal itself is divided into the North Wing for international flights and the South Wing for domestic flights.

The Diosdado Macapagal International Airport (DMIA) serves Angeles City and the Clark Special Economic Zone as well as Metro Manila itself. International flights coming from Asian countries such as Singapore are serviced by the DMIA as well as local flights.

When it comes to finding cheap flights in and out of Manila, discount airlines such as Cebu Pacific and Zest Air offer low rates while the Philippine Airlines offer special and seasonal discounts. With the many travel agents and airline offices scattered throughout the city it should not be too difficult finding cheap flights to Manila. Plane schedules often tend to change, especially during the typhoon season, so travelers are advised to check with the airlines for up to date flight times. Travelers may also take advantage of discounts provided for children and for group travel. With the slump in the airline industry, most airlines are offering various promotional discounts to encourage more travelers to fly instead of taking boat routes. Beware, however, of cleverly-worded advertisements. Although the fare may be comparatively low, the services may be on the low end and there may also be terminal fees to be paid that could add up to the airline fare itself.