Siargao Airport (IAO)

Siargao Airport (IAO/RPNS), officially known as Sayak Airport, serves as the primary air gateway to Siargao Island, a globally recognized destination for surfing and tourism in the Philippines. Located in Barangay Sayak within the municipality of Del Carmen, the airport is crucial to the island's economy, facilitating the constant flow of domestic and international visitors. While the original airstrip was smaller, the airport was upgraded and inaugurated with a longer runway in 2009 to accommodate larger commercial aircraft, fueling a significant tourism boom. The facility faced a major challenge in December 2021 when it sustained extensive damage from Typhoon Odette (Rai), leading to a temporary shutdown and a period of significant rehabilitation and reconstruction.

The airport is situated on the western side of the island, approximately a 45 to 60-minute drive from General Luna, the main tourist hub where most resorts, restaurants, and surf breaks are located. Upon arrival, travelers will find that the most common and convenient mode of transport to General Luna and other areas is a shared or private van service. These are readily available outside the terminal, with standardized fares per person for shared rides. For shorter distances or travel to Del Carmen proper, tricycles are also an option.

As a Class 2 domestic airport, Siargao Airport exclusively handles flights within the Philippines. Major national carriers, including Philippine Airlines (operated by PAL Express) and Cebu Pacific, offer regular flights connecting Siargao to key hubs such as Manila (MNL) and Cebu (CEB). Passenger volume grew steadily prior to 2021 and is recovering as the island's tourism sector rebuilds. The airport operates with a single, modest terminal building designed for functional passenger processing. Facilities are basic, consisting of check-in counters, a waiting area, baggage claim, and public restrooms. While amenities are limited, travelers can find a few small stalls selling snacks, drinks, and souvenirs. There are no dedicated airline lounges or large-scale restaurants within the terminal.

For a smooth travel experience, passengers are advised to arrive at the airport at least 1.5 to 2 hours before their scheduled departure, as the small check-in area can become congested during peak travel times. It is highly recommended to pre-arrange airport transfers with your accommodation, though securing a spot in a shared van upon arrival is generally straightforward. Having sufficient Philippine Pesos on hand is useful for transport and initial expenses, as on-site ATM services can be limited. For those connecting from international flights in Manila or Cebu, allowing a buffer of at least three to four hours is prudent to account for immigration, baggage collection, and terminal transfers.