Tata group airline Air India has announced the launch of non-stop flights between Delhi and Manila, beginning October 1, 2025. This marks the first direct air connection between the Indian and Philippine capitals in over a decade, following the suspension of similar services by Philippine Airlines in 2013 due to low demand. However, with a surge in outbound travel from India and Southeast Asian nations competing for Indian tourists, the timing is now ideal for resuming this route.
Air India Launches Direct Delhi-Manila Flights Amid Visa-Free Travel Boost
The new service will operate five days a week—Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday—using the Airbus A321neo with a three-class configuration: business, premium economy, and economy. The flight duration will be approximately six-and-a-half hours, and bookings are already open across all major channels.
This move aligns with the Philippines’ recent decision to allow visa-free travel for Indian tourists for up to 14 days, which previously applied only to Indians holding visas or permanent residency from countries like the US, UK, Australia, and members of the Schengen zone. The Philippines, renowned for its pristine islands and beaches, has witnessed a rise in Indian tourist arrivals, with 2024 seeing a 12.4% year-on-year growth, totalling nearly 79,000 visitors—up 53% from 2022.
Air India Eyes Global Transit Role with New Delhi-Manila Link and Trade Growth
Until now, travel between the two countries required connecting flights through major Southeast Asian hubs such as Singapore, Bangkok, and Kuala Lumpur. Air India also plans to use its Delhi hub to capture transfer traffic between Europe and the Philippines, expanding its international reach. Both Air India and IndiGo are aggressively growing their networks west and east of India to cater to rising demand and boost India’s position as a global transit hub.
Air India CEO Campbell Wilson emphasized the significance of this route in enhancing cultural ties and economic collaboration. Bilateral trade has grown substantially, reaching $3.53 billion in 2023–24, up from $1.89 billion in 2015–16, underscoring the importance of stronger connectivity.
Summary:
Air India will launch direct Delhi-Manila flights from October 1, 2025, reconnecting the capitals after 12 years. The move follows the Philippines’ new visa-free entry for Indian tourists. Aiming to boost tourism, trade, and transit traffic, the route enhances connectivity and supports growing ties between India and the Philippines.
