Philippine Airlines (PAL) to Launch Nonstop Flights from Delhi & Mumbai to Manila
Philippine Airlines (PAL) is poised to significantly boost direct air travel between India and the Philippines with the introduction of new nonstop flights from Delhi and Mumbai to Manila, commencing December 2026. This strategic expansion will provide Indian travellers with a much-awaited direct gateway to the Philippines, along with convenient onward connections to key destinations across Asia, Australia, and North America. The launch of these services is currently awaiting official approval from the Indian government.
Upon launch, PAL will operate a total of seven direct weekly flights connecting India with Manila. Delhi will receive three weekly flights, scheduled for Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. Mumbai will see four weekly flights, operating on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays.
Delhi–Manila Flight Schedule
Philippine Airlines will operate three direct flights per week between Delhi and Manila:
- Delhi to Manila (Flight PR643): Departs Delhi at 8:15 AM, arriving in Manila at 5:00 PM. This service will operate every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday.
- Manila to Delhi (Flight PR642): Departs Manila at 10:40 PM, reaching Delhi at 3:00 AM the following day. This return flight will operate every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday.
Mumbai–Manila Flight Schedule
PAL’s new Mumbai–Manila service, marking its first direct route from the city, will run four times a week:
- Mumbai to Manila (Flight PR647): Departs Mumbai at 7:15 AM, arriving in Manila at 5:00 PM. Flights are scheduled for every Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday.
- Manila to Mumbai (Flight PR646): Departs Manila at 10:40 PM, arriving in Mumbai at 3:05 AM the next day. This return service will operate every Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday.
All flight timings mentioned are local.
Airbus A321neo Aircraft with Indian-Friendly Services
Both the Delhi and Mumbai routes will be served by Philippine Airlines’ modern 168-seat Airbus A321neo aircraft. The configuration includes 12 comfortable lie-flat Business Class seats and 156 Economy seats, ensuring a pleasant travel experience for all passengers.
Committed to providing a welcoming journey for Indian passengers, PAL will offer tailored services including a selection of Indian-inspired meals, with dedicated vegetarian and Jain meal options, along with suitable service touches and in-flight entertainment.
Seamless Onward Connections from Manila
The strategic location of Manila offers extensive onward connectivity beyond the Philippine capital. Passengers can conveniently connect to numerous domestic and international destinations:
- Popular Philippine Destinations: Cebu, Bacolod, Cagayan de Oro, Iloilo, Davao, and many more.
- Key International Destinations: Major cities like Los Angeles, Vancouver, Honolulu, Sydney, Brisbane, Perth, Melbourne, Tokyo Haneda, and Hong Kong.
This expansion provides Indian travellers with a valuable new direct gateway into Southeast Asia, and establishes a practical one-stop option for longer journeys across various global regions. PAL’s move deepens the industry trend of utilizing major Asian hubs to connect Indian cities with a wider array of secondary and primary destinations worldwide.
Philippines Visa-Free Entry for Indian Nationals
An additional advantage for Indian nationals is the provision for visa-free entry to the Philippines for tourism or business purposes, allowing stays of up to 14 days. Travellers should ensure they meet all applicable entry requirements.
While these new services are scheduled to begin in December 2026, travellers are advised to await the required Indian government approval before finalizing their travel plans based on this schedule.
Enhanced Travel Options for Indian Travellers
The introduction of these direct Philippine Airlines flights from Delhi and Mumbai signifies a practical and appealing new travel option for Indian travellers. Offering nonstop connectivity from two major Indian hubs, seamless onward connections via Manila, and thoughtful Indian-friendly onboard services, this expansion promises to significantly enhance accessibility to the Philippines and beyond, pending final approvals for December 2026.
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