The Bohol-Panglao International Airport: A Review and Traveler’s Guide

​The Bohol-Panglao International Airport was transferred from Tagbilaran to Panglao and was opened in November 2018. Good news to all Panglao travelers, the airport is now just 10-15 minutes away from Alona and Dumaluan Beaches, where most of the resorts are located. Bad news though to those staying in Tagbilaran City as it will now take you 30-40 minutes via bus/van to travel from the airport to where you are staying rather than the usual 10-15 minutes tricycle ride. 

Construction of the airport began in 2015 as part of the government’s efforts to improve infrastructure and support the country’s growing tourism industry. The airport was built on a 216-hectare property on Panglao Island, which is located south of the main island of Bohol. The location of the airport was carefully chosen to take advantage of the island’s stunning natural beauty and to provide easier access for tourists. The project was completed in 2018, and the airport replaced the old Tagbilaran Airport as the main gateway to the province of Bohol. The construction of the airport cost around 7.8 billion pesos and was funded by the Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).

The airport’s modern design and state-of-the-art facilities were intended to provide a world-class travel experience for passengers. The airport’s terminal building features a contemporary design inspired by the natural beauty of Bohol, with a sweeping roof that resembles the waves of the sea. The airport also features a 2,500-meter runway and a modern air traffic control tower that meets international standards.

Since its opening, Bohol Panglao International Airport has become a key driver of economic growth in the region. It has helped to boost tourism in Bohol, providing better access for international visitors and contributing to the local economy. In addition, the airport has created more job opportunities for local residents, both directly and indirectly, such as those working in restaurants, transportation services, and other businesses that support the airport’s operations.

The airport continues to be developed and improved. As of 2021, there are plans to expand the airport’s capacity and add more amenities for passengers, including a new passenger terminal building and additional parking spaces. The airport is also looking to implement more sustainable practices, such as the use of solar energy and rainwater harvesting, to reduce its environmental impact.

Reasons why I love this new airport:

1. It’s huge, at least for a Tier 2 city airport! A far cry from the old Tagbilaran Airport which looked more like a bus station than an airport. At some point, due to its size, it has become overcrowded and couldn’t catch up with the increasing number of tourists.
2. It’s the first eco-airport in the Philippines which uses air conditioning only in some areas and the rest uses natural ventilation.
3. I love the exterior design – they say it’s supposedly mimicking the rolling waves of Panglao.
4. There are plugs and charging stations almost everywhere. However, recently they decided to cover and remove the outlets on the floor as it was an obvious hazard. These outlets are located in the middle of the walkway so people passing through with their luggages are getting tripped over and cellphones being charged are getting stepped on.
5. Again, it’s only 10-15 minutes away from your resort wherever in Panglao.
6. Public transportation going to and from your resort in Panglao is no longer a hassle. If you are staying in Alona Beach, the public buses will pass through Alona Beach first before heading to Tagbilaran.
7. No waiting in line for the buses because the buses will be there outside of the airport waiting for everyone to board. There are a lot of buses going to and fro so they won’t run out. I’ve flown through this airport from Manila thrice now  since it became operational and there was not one trip where I had to wait for the bus.
8. The fare is reasonable. Coming from the airport,  the fare is P40 to Alona Beach and P50 to Tagbilaran City, including Dao terminal. 

1. We need more places to eat. As of December 2023, there are only 2 food booths at the ground floor. Don’t expect to find any restaurants in this airport where you can have a proper meal because there is none. So make sure have get your breakfast, lunch or dinner somewhere else before heading for the airport.
2. We can use more seats. The airport is huge but the seats are limited only to a certain portion of the departure area, both lower and upper floors. I saw some travelers had to stand up or sit on the floor while waiting for boarding.