Overview of General Santos International Airport
General Santos International Airport, also known as Tambler Airport, is an airport located in General Santos City in the Philippines. It serves as the main gateway to the Southern Philippines, particularly the provinces of Sarangani and South Cotabato.
The airport covers an area of 625 hectares and has a single runway measuring 3,000 meters in length and 45 meters in width. It has a capacity of handling approximately two million passengers annually.
The airport has a modern terminal building with facilities such as restaurants, cafes, duty-free shops, and a VIP lounge. There are also car rental services and parking areas available for use by passengers.
General Santos International Airport serves as the hub for Philippine Airlines subsidiary PAL Express, and several other domestic airlines such as Cebu Pacific, AirAsia Philippines, and Philippines AirAsia. Several international airlines also operate flights to and from the airport, including Qatar Airways, SilkAir, and Jin Air.
The airport’s location makes it a strategic gateway to Mindanao, the second-largest island in the Philippines. Its proximity to tourist destinations such as Lake Sebu and Sarangani Bay make it an essential transportation hub for both tourists and locals alike.
Overall, General Santos International Airport is a vital aviation hub for the Southern Philippines region, providing easy access to different parts of Mindanao and serving as a gateway to the rest of the country.
Terminals at General Santos International Airport
General Santos International Airport is a prominent airport in the Philippines that serves the city of General Santos and its neighboring towns. The airport has two terminals that cater to different types of passengers: Terminal 1 for international flights and Terminal 2 for domestic flights.
Terminal 1 is the bigger of the two terminals, with a total floor area of 5,535 square meters. It has two boarding gates, one for arrivals and the other for departures, and can accommodate up to 400 passengers at any given time. The terminal has several amenities, including a duty-free shop, several restaurants and cafes, and a business lounge.
On the other hand, Terminal 2 has a total floor area of 2,838 square meters and can cater to up to 600 passengers. It has a departure gate and an arrival gate on the ground floor, along with a security checkpoint and several check-in counters. Like Terminal 1, it also has several dining options and shops for passengers.
Both terminals are equipped with essential facilities such as restrooms, information desks, and luggage handling services. Travelers with disabilities can also access the airport’s various services, including wheelchair assistance and special boarding arrangements.
Moreover, the airport management at General Santos International Airport continues to improve its terminals to provide better passenger experience. Recently, Terminal 2 underwent a renovation that included upgrading its air-conditioning system, installing improved lighting fixtures, and adding more seats in the waiting area.
In summary, both terminals at General Santos International Airport offer travelers comfortable and convenient facilities. Its various services and amenities ensure that passengers have a pleasant and hassle-free airport experience.
Airlines and Destinations
The following airlines operate from General Santos International Airport: Cebu Pacific, Philippine Airlines, and Air Asia.
Cebu Pacific serves domestic routes such as Manila, Cebu, Iloilo, and Davao. They also fly to international destinations in Singapore and Malaysia.
Philippine Airlines flies to Manila, Cebu, and Zamboanga for domestic flights. They also offer international flights to Seoul, South Korea.
Air Asia provides flights to Manila, Cebu, and Puerto Princesa for domestic routes. They also have international flights to Kuala Lumpur and Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia.
It is important to note that airline schedules may change seasonally, so it is recommended to check with the airlines for the latest information.
Transportation Options at General Santos International Airport
General Santos International Airport serves as a gateway to the southernmost part of the Philippines. With its strategic location, it is no surprise that there are numerous transportation options available for travelers arriving and departing from the airport.
One of the most popular modes of transportation at General Santos International Airport is the shuttle service. There are several shuttle companies operating at the airport, offering affordable and convenient transportation to various destinations in General Santos City and nearby provinces. These shuttle services are perfect for those looking for a hassle-free way to get to their destination without having to worry about navigating unfamiliar roads.
Car rentals are also available at the airport. Most car rental companies offer a range of vehicles to choose from, including economy cars, sedans, SUVs, and even luxury cars. This option is perfect for those who want to explore the area at their own pace and on their own schedule.
For budget-conscious travelers, the shuttle bus is an excellent option. The shuttle bus is a more affordable alternative to the shuttle service. It runs between the airport and various locations in General Santos City, making stops along the way. The shuttle bus operates on a fixed route and schedule, which makes it easy to plan out your trip.
Although there are no train lines directly linked to the airport, the nearest train station is just a few kilometers away. From the airport, travelers can take a taxi or a shuttle bus to get to the nearest train station.
In addition to these transportation options, taxis are also readily available at the airport. Taxi fares vary depending on the destination, but there are usually fixed rates for certain areas in the city. It is always a good idea to agree on the fare with the driver before getting into the taxi.
Overall, General Santos International Airport offers a range of transportation options to suit every traveler’s needs and budget. Whether you prefer the convenience of a shuttle service or the flexibility of a car rental, you are sure to find a transportation option that works for you. With so many options available, traveling in and around General Santos City has never been easier.
Parking Options at General Santos International Airport
General Santos International Airport offers several parking options for travelers. For short-term parking, there is a lot located directly in front of the terminal building with hourly rates starting at PHP 40. If you need to park for more than a day, the airport also has long-term lots available with daily rates starting at PHP 200. The long-term lots are located slightly further away from the terminal but offer free shuttle service to and from the airport.
If you are picking up or dropping off someone at the airport, there is a designated area near the terminal where you can wait for free for up to 10 minutes. Beyond that, there are fees that will be charged based on the duration of your stay.
For those who prefer a more convenient parking option, there is valet parking available for a fee of PHP 500 per day. This service allows you to simply drop off your car at the terminal entrance and have it parked for you by a staff member.
Overall, General Santos International Airport has a range of parking options to suit different needs and budgets. It is important to note that rates may vary depending on the time of year and demand, so it’s always best to check ahead of time.
Check-In Procedures
General Santos International Airport offers different check-in methods for the convenience of passengers. One way is through online check-in, which can be done 48 hours up to an hour before the flight departure. Passengers can select their seats, print their boarding pass or have it sent to their mobile device.
Another option is the self-service kiosks found in the airport terminal. Passengers can use these machines to check-in, print their boarding pass, and select their seats. The kiosks are available 24 hours before the flight departure.
For those who prefer the traditional method, check-in counters are also available in the airport. Passengers must present their travel documents, such as passports and visas, to the airline representative. The representative will then issue the boarding pass and check the baggage, if needed.
Passengers are advised to arrive at the airport at least two hours before the scheduled flight departure to allow ample time for the check-in process, security screening, and boarding. Additionally, it is recommended to review the airline’s baggage allowance and prohibited items to avoid any inconvenience during the security screening process.
Overall, General Santos International Airport provides various check-in options for the convenience of its passengers, whether they prefer using online, self-service, or traditional methods.
Security Measures at General Santos International Airport
At General Santos International Airport, security is taken seriously to ensure the safety and protection of passengers.
To ensure a smooth security check, it is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before the scheduled flight, wear comfortable clothing, and avoid bringing prohibited items such as sharp objects, flammable materials, and liquids exceeding 100ml.
Passengers will go through several security procedures such as baggage screening, body scanning, and manual inspection, so it is important to follow the instructions of the security personnel and be patient during the process.
Overall, the airport’s security measures are in place to safeguard the welfare of all passengers, and following the guidelines can make the experience hassle-free and stress-free.
Customs and Immigration Process at General Santos International Airport
For arriving passengers, the first step is to go through immigration where they will be asked to present their passport, visa (if required), and arrival card. Once they have been cleared by immigration, they proceed to the baggage claim area to pick up their luggage.
After getting their luggage, passengers must proceed to customs where they may be asked to declare any items they are bringing into the country that need to be declared. If everything is in order, they may exit the airport.
For departing passengers, the process starts by checking in at the airline counter. After check-in, passengers must proceed to immigration where they will have their passport and boarding pass checked. They will then proceed to the security checkpoint where they must undergo a security screening.
Once they have passed through security, they may proceed to the departure gate and wait for their flight. Before boarding, they may be asked to present their passport and boarding pass again for verification.
Amenities
– Free Wi-Fi access throughout the airport
– Various restaurants and cafes serving local and international cuisine
– Duty-free shops selling a wide range of products such as perfumes, cosmetics, chocolates, and liquor
– Souvenir shops offering local handicrafts, accessories, and clothing
– ATMs, currency exchange centers, and bank services for financial transactions
– Baby changing stations and nursing rooms for families traveling with infants
– Information counters and flight information displays to keep passengers updated on their flights
– VIP lounges for business class passengers and frequent flyers
– Prayer rooms for Muslim passengers
– Wheelchair assistance and accessible facilities for travelers with disabilities or limited mobility.
Accessibility Services
General Santos International Airport provides facilities and services for passengers with disabilities or mobility issues.
These include wheelchair-accessible toilets, ramps, and elevators in all terminals, as well as dedicated parking spaces close to the terminal entrance for passengers with disabilities.
Assistance is also available for visually and hearing impaired passengers, including Braille signages, audio announcements, and trained staff to guide them through the airport.
Passengers with disabilities are advised to inform their airline or travel agent of their needs at least 48 hours before their flight. General Santos International Airport ensures that all passengers are given equal access to its facilities and services.
Connecting Flights at General Santos International Airport
Connecting flights at General Santos International Airport require passengers to transfer from one flight to another. Ensure you have ample time between connecting flights, as the airport is small and it may take a while to clear immigration and customs.
Make sure to familiarize yourself with the airport layout and the gate numbers of your connecting flight. If your connecting flight is on a different terminal, there is a free shuttle bus service that runs between terminals.
If you are unsure about the process, approach any airport staff or airline personnel for assistance. They will be more than willing to help you. Remember to also keep a close watch on your boarding pass and take note of your scheduled departure time.
Lastly, be prepared to go through security again upon entering your next flight. Make sure to remove all prohibited items from your carry-on baggage before arriving at the airport. With these tips, you can have a stress-free connecting flight experience at General Santos International Airport.
Baggage Claim and Lost Property
Upon arrival at General Santos International Airport, passengers must proceed to the baggage claim area to collect their checked luggage. Baggage carousels are clearly marked with flight information.
If a passenger’s baggage is not found on the carousel, they should immediately notify the airline’s baggage service office located in the baggage claim area. The airline’s staff will assist in locating and delivering the missing bags.
If the luggage is damaged, the passenger should also report it to the airline’s baggage service office. The airline will assess the damage and provide compensation if necessary.
For lost property that is not baggage-related, travelers should contact the airport’s lost and found department. The lost and found office is located in the terminal building, and passengers will be required to provide identifying information about the lost item.
Emergency and Medical Facilities
In case of an emergency at General Santos International Airport, trained first aid personnel are available to provide assistance. The airport also has a medical clinic with qualified doctors and nurses on standby 24/7.
Ambulance services can be requested by contacting the airport’s emergency hotline, and there are also fire and rescue services available.
The airport is equipped with a defibrillator and oxygen supply for use in emergencies. If you require medication or medical equipment, the airport staff will assist you in obtaining it.
Rest assured that your safety and wellbeing are a top priority at General Santos International Airport.
Hotel Accommodations
There are several hotel accommodations available within or near General Santos International Airport.
Here is a list of at least five hotels near the airport and their respective distances from it:
- Microtel by Wyndham General Santos – 1.3 km
- Greenleaf Hotel Gensan – 2.6 km
- The Farm at Carpenter Hill – 3.5 km
- Family Country Hotel and Convention Centre – 4.3 km
- Eurotel General Santos – 5.6 km
These hotels offer a variety of amenities such as free Wi-Fi, complimentary breakfast, swimming pools, and fitness centers. They also provide shuttle services to and from the airport for the convenience of their guests.
Useful Tips
Here are some insider tips for making the most out of your experience at General Santos International Airport.
First, arrive early to avoid the long security lines and give yourself time to explore the airport’s amenities.
If you’re looking for a place to eat, try the local delicacies at the airport’s food court.
Additionally, bring a portable charger to keep your devices powered up during your travels.
Finally, be sure to take advantage of the free WiFi offered throughout the airport. Happy travels!
Contact Information
Airport Information: (+63) 83 553-8000 / [email protected]
Flight Information: (+63) 83 553-8113 / [email protected]
Lost and Found: (+63) 83 553-8000 local 7116 / [email protected]
Immigration: (+63) 83 553-8177 / [email protected]
Customs: (+63) 83 553-8150 / [email protected].
Note: All contact numbers and email addresses are subject to change without prior notice. Please check the official website of General Santos International Airport for any updates.
Airports Near General Santos International Airport
For travelers considering alternative flight options or layovers, there are other airports in the vicinity of General Santos International Airport:
- Francisco Bangoy International Airport (Davao City) – 177 km away, accessible by bus, van, or taxi
- Zamboanga International Airport (Zamboanga City) – 258 km away, accessible by bus, van, or taxi
- Ninoy Aquino International Airport (Manila) – 1,093 km away, accessible by domestic flight or bus
Transportation options vary depending on the airport, but visitors can choose from buses, vans, taxis, or flights to reach their desired destination. It’s always best to research and plan ahead to ensure a smooth trip.