Change has come in one of the places that needed it the most — Terminal 1 of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport.

The improvements, made during the term of president Noynoy Aquino, has completely transformed the dark and dreary interiors of the Leandro Locsin-designed building into a well-lit space.

These changes, perhaps, are enough to get it out of the world’s worst airports list.

The 2015 renovation project cost about PHP1.3-billion and it looks like the money was put to really good use, as you can see for yourself in the photos below. It was the first time in 30 years (the current structure was built in the 1980s) that is has undergone an overhaul.

The changes aren’t just aesthetic, as we discovered ourselves recently. There are new toilets and facilities, and the airconditioning now works to full capacity. The F&B tenants have also upgraded and there’s now a Starbucks and a pay-as-you-enter lounge (PHP750) that has free WiFi and a shower, and serves unlimited snacks and drinks.

In this day and age where all first-class airports look the same with their steel and glass design, it’s nice to see that NAIA has found a way to upgrade Terminal 1 without obliterating its contemporary Filipino design.

Before

PHOTO: Wikipedia/JohnsPSolis

After

NAIA Terminal 1’s lobby for international departures is now brighter and shinier with a new lighting system

The renovation included new seats for passengers waiting in the international departures area.

This is the arrivals lobby for international passengers arriving in the country.

An electronic board at the departures area displays each flight’s status and boarding gate.

A new carpet welcomes passengers arriving at the airport.

Not only is the baggage area better lit, luggage are also deployed faster, based on our recent experience.

There are now monitors to display the assigned flight on each conveyor belt.

The original architectural details of Terminal 1, designed by National Artist for Architecture Leandro V. Locsin, has been faithfully preserved.

Passengers arriving in the Philippines no longer have to fill up a Customs form or talk to a Customs officer unless they have something to declare.

The Immigration area has separate counters for foreign and local passport holders.

Even the Starbucks Coffee shop has adapted its design to NAIA Terminal 1.

The Dignitaries Lounge at Terminal 1 showcases the best of Philippine design, such as the capiz chandelier.

NAIA Terminal 1’s lounge for departing dignitaries.

Homey and warm ambiance, with the use of wood, might make you want to miss your flight.

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