✈️ Flight Guide: Newark (EWR) → Manila (MNL)

For an international itinerary from Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) to Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL) in March, arrive at least 3 hours before your scheduled departure. March can coincide with spring break travel and St. Patrick’s Day crowds in New York City, so allow extra time for security lines, check-in, and potential traffic coming from nearby cities like New York City, Jersey City, and Philadelphia. Check your airline’s suggested arrival time and use real-time airport alerts the morning of travel.

Travelers to Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) can choose NJ Transit trains, Amtrak, the AirTrain + NJ Transit/PATH combination, taxis, rideshares, or express buses from New York City. In March, allow extra commute time for variable spring weather and occasional roadwork; trains and the AirTrain tend to be the most reliable for avoiding traffic. For a stress-free transfer, book a dedicated airport shuttle or check real-time NJ Transit schedules before leaving.

There are typically no nonstop flights between Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) and Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL) year-round; most itineraries in March involve one or two connections through hubs such as Doha (DOH), Dubai (DXB), Seoul (ICN), Tokyo (NRT/HND), or Taipei (TPE). Total door-to-door travel time usually ranges from about 18 to 28 hours depending on the carrier and layover length. When searching for EWR to MNL flights in March, compare one-stop options for the best balance of price and duration.

Baggage rules depend on the operating carrier: Middle Eastern and Asian carriers (e.g., Qatar Airways, Emirates, Korean Air, EVA Air) often include at least one checked bag in economy for international long-haul itineraries, but low-cost connections or codeshares may have different allowances. For March travel, review your airline confirmation for exact weight and dimension limits, and note that oversized sports equipment or surfboards bound for Palawan or Boracay may incur extra fees. Always verify permitted carry-on sizes to avoid gate check fees at EWR.

Same-day connections at Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) to international long-haul flights to Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL) are possible but risky; airlines typically recommend at least a 2–3 hour minimum connection for domestic-to-international transfers. In March, schedule buffers for weather or Spring Break delays and consider through-checked bags and single-ticket itineraries to protect your connection. If you have separate tickets, plan a longer layover or purchase travel protection.

Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) offers a range of lounges (airline and independent), restaurants, duty-free shops, and family facilities across terminals A, B, and C, with many amenities geared to international travelers. In March, lounge availability may peak due to higher travel volumes; purchase a day pass or check elite benefits if you need a quiet space before a long-haul flight to Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL). Charging stations, business centers, and wellness facilities can make long layovers more comfortable.

Arriving at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL) in March means warm, early-summer weather and moderate airport crowds as domestic tourism picks up. Expect standard immigration checks and baggage claim times; lines can be longer during Philippine school holidays and long weekends. Plan airport transfers to nearby city centers like Makati, Taguig, and Quezon City ahead of time to avoid waiting for taxis on arrival.

From Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL), the most reliable transfers to Makati and Bonifacio Global City (Taguig) are metered taxis, app-based rideshares, and pre-arranged hotel shuttles. In March, traffic can increase as local tourism and business travel rise with early summer; allow extra travel time and consider booking a ride in advance or using a trusted airport transport service. Keep small Philippine peso bills handy for tolls and tips.

Visa requirements depend on your nationality. Many nationalities, including U.S. citizens, may enter the Philippines visa-free for stays up to 30 days with a valid passport and onward ticket, but visa policies can change. For March travel, verify entry rules based on your passport, check for any COVID-19 or health-related entry advisories, and confirm passport validity of at least six months where applicable.

Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL) offers arrivals halls with currency exchange, baggage services, SIM card vendors, and several lounge options depending on terminal. In March, expect kiosks offering mobile data SIMs and tourist information booths, which are useful for tourists heading to Cebu, Boracay, or Palawan. For a smoother arrival, prebook airport transfers and have Philippine pesos available for initial expenses.

Standard travel health advice for visiting the Philippines includes up-to-date routine vaccinations and recommended immunizations like Hepatitis A and typhoid depending on planned activities. In March, heat and humidity increase, so stay hydrated and practice sun protection. Check the CDC and local Philippine health advisories before travel for any seasonal health alerts and entry requirements.

March is an excellent month to use Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL) as a hub for domestic flights to Cebu, Boracay (Caticlan), and Puerto Princesa (Palawan), as the weather is typically dry and beach-friendly. Book domestic flights and accommodations early, as March kickstarts the Philippine high season; airlines like Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, and AirAsia frequently operate these routes. Consider multi-city tickets or regional holiday packages to streamline logistics and save on combined fares.