Terminal 2

This is Terminal 2 of Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Manila.

Terminal 2 is exclusively used by Philippine Airlines and its subsidiary, PAL Express.

Terminal Grounds

The entrance area leading into Terminal 2.

The palm trees give off a relaxed, tropical vibe.

Boarding Gates

This is the boarding gate area for flights bound for Haneda.

Departure Lobby

The third-floor departure lobby, where passengers wait for boarding.

Duty-Free Shop

This is the duty-free liquor section. The Philippines has one of the highest consumption rates of hard liquor in the world, particularly gin. The shelves here are lined with whisky and rum.

Today’s Aircraft

Today’s flight to Haneda is operated by Philippine Airlines on an Airbus A350-900.

Snack Shop

A food and beverage stand inside the departure lobby.

Interestingly, they even sell “Siopao” (steamed buns) here at the airport. The varieties include ASADO (pork filling) and BOLA-BOLA (ground meat with sliced boiled egg).

Philippine Airlines Lounge

As an ANA Diamond Member, I had access to the Philippine Airlines “Mabuhay Lounge,” which is available through ANA’s partnership with Philippine Airlines.

“Mabuhay” is a Filipino greeting meaning “Welcome” or “Cheers,” and it also carries the meaning “to live.”

Mabuhay Lounge

The nameplate at the entrance of the Mabuhay Lounge.

Rice and Side Dishes

The buffet counter with rice and side dishes.

Sweets and Fruits

The dessert and fruit section.

Steamed Pork Buns

Beverage Refrigerator

A well-stocked beverage fridge.

Cakes and Fresh Juices

Bread Selection

A variety of Filipino breads are also available.

Filipino Dishes

A variety of Filipino dishes are served, reflecting Spanish culinary influences from the colonial period.

Soup Station

The Filipino-style soup station.

Bar Counter (1)

The bar counter, where alcoholic beverages are served.

Bar Counter (2)

The cocktail menu. You can also request custom-made cocktails.

Bar Counter (3)

A wide variety of alcoholic beverages, including whisky, vodka, gin, and wine.

Boarding Gate

After enjoying some time at the lounge, I headed to the boarding gate.

This is the gate for my flight to Fukuoka.

Today's Aircraft

You can see the aircraft for today’s flight parked in the distance.

Economy Class Cabin

This is the Economy Class cabin. It features a 3-3-3 seating layout with two aisles.

View from the Window

While taxiing to the runway, I spotted an ANA aircraft in the distance, seemingly waiting for clearance from the control tower.

Just After Takeoff

This is the view of Manila International Airport just after takeoff.

You can see the skyscrapers of downtown Manila in the distance. The airport is located about 10 kilometers south of the city center.

City Skyline

Flights bound for Japan head north after takeoff, passing directly over Manila. This provides a great view of the city skyline.

Since the Philippines consists of many small islands, with the airport located close to the sea and numerous rivers running through the area, the view from above is strikingly different from Japan — cities and land seem to float among waterways.

Over Downtown

Flying over downtown Manila. The weather was perfect, and the view was crystal clear.

Countryside View

I believe this is over the rice field region north of Manila.

There are many rivers and irrigation channels, and residential areas seem to cluster close to the waterways.

In-Flight Meal

The in-flight meal was served, and it came with a small pack of dried mangoes.

Main Dish

The main dish appears to be chicken adobo, a traditional Filipino braised chicken dish.

Approaching Kyushu

The flight progressed smoothly, and we were soon approaching Kyushu, likely somewhere near Nagasaki.

Close to Fukuoka

Almost time to land in Fukuoka.

Over Fukuoka

We’re now over Fukuoka City. I believe the area visible from the window is the hotel district along Hakata Bay.

Arrival at Fukuoka Airport

We have arrived safely at Fukuoka Airport.

Airport Bus

This is the airport bus departing from Fukuoka Airport.