The Manila (Pasay) to Lapu-Lapu City route connects Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL) in PH with Mactan Cebu International Airport (CEB) in PH. This short-haul flight covers approximately 353 miles (568 km) with a typical flight time of 1h 12m. This route is served by 7 airlines: Cebu Pacific, Philippines AirAsia, PAL Express and others. AirportRoutes has tracked 22 daily flights on this route.
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The Manila (MNL) to Cebu (CEB) flight route is a highly popular domestic connection in the Philippines, catering to both business and leisure travelers. As the two largest metropolitan areas in the country, the route facilitates commerce, tourism, and family visits. The average flight duration is around 1 hour and 30 to 40 minutes. Travelers choose this connection for its speed and convenience, avoiding lengthy ferry trips. This route doesn't have much historical significance besides being a crucial part of the Philippines' transportation network, connecting the capital to the Visayas region. While not particularly known for scenic views during the flight itself, both Manila and Cebu offer stunning landscapes and attractions. There are approximately 30 flights per day on average between Manila and Cebu.
To secure good prices, it's generally advisable to book flights in advance, keeping an eye out for promotional fares. For Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL), be aware that there are multiple terminals, and check your ticket carefully to ensure you go to the correct one. Terminals 1 and 2 are the most commonly used. At Mactan-Cebu International Airport (CEB), Terminal 1 is for domestic flights and Terminal 2 is for international flights. If you have a connecting flight, allow ample time (3-4 hours) for transfers between NAIA terminals. During the flight, expect standard domestic service, with options to purchase snacks and drinks onboard. Travel hack: bring your own snacks and an empty water bottle to fill after security to save money.
Lapu-Lapu City, located on Mactan Island, offers a mix of historical sites and beachside relaxation.
Lapu-Lapu City is unique for its blend of history and beach tourism. Key areas to visit include Maribago and Basak. Local cuisine includes fresh seafood.
The best time to visit Cebu, including Lapu-Lapu City, is during the dry season, which runs from December to May. Expect sunny skies and minimal rainfall during these months, ideal for beach activities and exploring the outdoors. Peak travel times are typically around Christmas, New Year, and Holy Week. To avoid crowds and potentially find lower prices, consider traveling during the shoulder months of November, January (after Sinulog Festival), or April. The Sinulog Festival in January is a major cultural event worth experiencing, but be prepared for larger crowds and higher prices.
Ninoy Aquino International Airport
RPLLMNLMactan Cebu International Airport
RPVMCEB7
Operators22
Daily Flights353
Miles1h 12m
Flight Duration
| Airline | ICAO | IATA |
|---|---|---|
| Cebu Pacific Air |
CEB
|
5J
|
| Philippines AirAsia |
APG
|
Z2
|
| PAL Express |
GAP
|
2P
|
| Sunlight Air |
RLB
|
2R
|
| Philippine Air Lines |
PAL
|
PR
|
| Cebgo |
SRQ
|
DG
|
| Air Hong Kong |
AHK
|
LD
|
| Day | Flights Observed | Frequency | Activity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monday | 74 | 15% |
|
| Tuesday | 72 | 14% |
|
| Wednesday | 77 | 15% |
|
| Thursday | 86 | 17% |
|
| Friday | 56 | 11% |
|
| Saturday | 67 | 13% |
|
| Sunday | 65 | 13% |
|
Pattern Analysis
| Airline | Flight Numbers | Aircraft Type | Typical Time | Days Active | Last Seen | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Air Hong Kong
AHK
/ LD
|
- | A333 | - |
M
T
W
T
F
S
S
|
Nov 8, 2025 | Active |
|
Cebgo
SRQ
/ DG
|
- | AT72 | - |
M
T
W
T
F
S
S
|
Oct 25, 2025 | Active |
|
Cebu Pacific Air
CEB
/ 5J
|
CEB555 CEB561 CEB587 CEB575 CEB583 | A339 | 03:45 3:45 AM (Representative) |
M
T
W
T
F
S
S
|
Feb 5, 2026 | Active |
|
PAL Express
GAP
/ 2P
|
GAP2853 GAP2863 GAP2867 GAP2857 GAP2869 | A321 | 11:40 11:40 AM (Representative) |
M
T
W
T
F
S
S
|
Feb 5, 2026 | Active |
|
Philippine Air Lines
PAL
/ PR
|
PAL1861 CEB583 LZB577 GAP2869 PAL1835 | A333 | 19:25 7:25 PM (Representative) |
M
T
W
T
F
S
S
|
Feb 2, 2026 | Active |
|
Philippines AirAsia
APG
/ Z2
|
APG771 APG779 APG783 APG763 APG777 | A320 | 19:30 7:30 PM (Representative) |
M
T
W
T
F
S
S
|
Feb 4, 2026 | Active |
|
Sunlight Air
RLB
/ 2R
|
- | AT72 | - |
M
T
W
T
F
S
S
|
Nov 21, 2025 | Active |
| Departure Time | Operator | ICAO | IATA |
|---|---|---|---|
| 03:45 3:45 AM | Cebu Pacific Air |
CEB
|
5J
|
| 11:40 11:40 AM | PAL Express |
GAP
|
2P
|
| 19:25 7:25 PM | Philippine Air Lines |
PAL
|
PR
|
| 19:30 7:30 PM | Philippines AirAsia |
APG
|
Z2
|
Time Information
Times are shown in the departure airport's local timezone (RPLL - Asia/Manila).