Lio Airport (IATA: ENI) is El Nido’s own small airport, located about 15km north of El Nido town in the Lio Tourism Estate. Flying directly into El Nido saves the grueling 5–6 hour van ride from Puerto Princesa — but comes at a premium price. This guide covers everything you need to know about using Lio Airport in 2026.
Table of Contents
Lio Airport at a Glance
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| IATA code | ENI |
| Location | Lio Tourism Estate, ~15km north of El Nido town |
| Runway | Small — propeller aircraft only (ATR 72, Cessna) |
| Main airline | Air Swift |
| Routes | Manila (MNL), Cebu (CEB), Boracay (MPH) |
| Flight time from Manila | ~1 hour 20 minutes |
| Terminal | Small open-air terminal, no air conditioning |
Airlines & Routes
Air Swift is the primary (and often only) airline operating into Lio Airport. They operate turboprop aircraft (ATR 72) on the following routes:
- Manila (MNL) → El Nido (ENI): Multiple daily flights, ~1h20m
- Cebu (CEB) → El Nido (ENI): Several weekly flights
- Boracay/Caticlan (MPH) → El Nido (ENI): Seasonal service
Flight Prices
| Route | Price Range (one way) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Manila → El Nido | ₱3,500–8,000 | Book 4–8 weeks ahead for best prices |
| Cebu → El Nido | ₱3,000–7,000 | Less frequent, book early |
| Boracay → El Nido | ₱3,500–7,500 | Seasonal availability |
vs. Puerto Princesa option: Flying to Puerto Princesa (PPS) via Cebu Pacific or Philippine Airlines is significantly cheaper (₱800–2,500 one way from Manila), but adds a 5–6 hour van transfer to El Nido (₱700–900). For most travelers, the time saving of flying direct to Lio justifies the premium.
Getting from Lio Airport to El Nido Town
| Transport | Price | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Shared van (Air Swift shuttle) | ₱200–300/person | ~30 minutes |
| Private van transfer | ₱800–1,200 | ~25 minutes |
| Trike | ₱300–500 | ~35–40 minutes |
Air Swift operates a shared shuttle van that meets arriving flights and drops passengers at El Nido town. This is the most convenient and affordable option for solo travelers and couples.
Lio Airport Tips
- Arrive 45–60 minutes before departure — the terminal is small and check-in closes early
- Baggage allowance is strict — Air Swift enforces weight limits on small aircraft; check your allowance when booking
- No ATM at the airport — withdraw cash in El Nido town before departing
- Flights can be delayed or cancelled due to weather — build buffer time into your itinerary, especially during the wet season
- The terminal has limited facilities — a small café and seating area only
- Book early — Lio Airport flights sell out weeks in advance during peak season (Dec–Apr)
Lio Airport vs Puerto Princesa: Which to Use?
| Lio Airport (ENI) | Puerto Princesa (PPS) | |
|---|---|---|
| Flight cost | Higher (₱3,500–8,000) | Lower (₱800–2,500) |
| Transfer to El Nido | 30 min (₱200–300) | 5–6 hours (₱700–900) |
| Total travel time | ~2.5 hours from Manila | ~7–8 hours from Manila |
| Airlines | Air Swift only | Cebu Pacific, PAL, AirAsia |
| Best for | Short trips, premium travelers | Budget travelers, longer stays |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a direct flight from Manila to El Nido?
Yes — Air Swift operates direct flights from Manila (Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 4) to Lio Airport (ENI) in El Nido. Flight time is approximately 1 hour 20 minutes.
How far is Lio Airport from El Nido town?
About 15km — approximately 25–35 minutes by van or trike. Air Swift operates a shared shuttle for ₱200–300/person.
Can I fly from Cebu to El Nido?
Yes — Air Swift operates flights from Cebu (Mactan-Cebu International Airport) to Lio Airport. Check Air Swift’s website for current schedules as frequency varies by season.
What is the baggage allowance on Air Swift flights?
Air Swift typically allows 10kg checked baggage and 7kg carry-on on their ATR 72 aircraft. Excess baggage fees apply. Check your booking confirmation for exact allowances.
| Booking Platform | Best For | Price Range | Book Now |
|---|---|---|---|
| Booking.com | Widest selection, free cancellation | $15–500+/night | Search Hotels |
| Agoda | Best deals, Asia-focused | $15–500+/night | Search Hotels |
| Klook | Tours, activities, packages | $10–200+/activity | Browse Tours |
