Lio Airport located in Lio town in El Nido, Palawan is such a cute little airport, and therefore never too crowded. Securing your luggage post flight and entering security to board was a breeze. We came 2 hours early for our flight which was way too early apparently. There are two cafes operating inside in the waiting area with cheap snacks and drinks. AC is blasting and pleasant all around. Such a nice touch, but the staff often offer umbrellas to protect from the sun as you walk on the runaway to and from your plane.
Some minor issues -- The intercom in the waiting area is unclear and echoes, making it frustrating to listen for updates to delayed flights. On that note, most flights WILL get delayed. The airport does operate on a considerably short runway and trade winds make for a tricky landing therefore the pilots often miss the runway and need to circle back around for a second attempt. The only airline servicing the airport is AirSwift. Their aircraft design is smaller and with open propellers and wings situated on top of the plane. The planes tend to break often which did happen to us just as we were about to take off. Everyone was mad and hot which was entertaining, haha. Thankfully, they popped us into the next flight and we didn't have to return 3 hours later like another delayed flight.
When visiting El Nido, your best bet is to fly in on this 1.5 hour flight from Manila. It definitely beats having to ride in a bumpy van for 5 hours from Puerto Princesa. Just be prepared for some potential turbulence (due to small jet size and trade winds) -- along with impending nausea -- and delayed flights. DO give yourself at least 5 hours in between connecting flights because of this. read more