What You Should Know About the New Delhi–Manila Flight Launching This October

Big news for international travellers! Air India is set to launch non-stop flights between Delhi and Manila starting October 01, 2025. If you've been dreaming of exploring the colours, flavours, and history of India, this is the perfect time.

This new route makes Air India the only airline operating direct flights between India and the Philippines, marking a significant step forward in boosting tourism, trade, and cultural ties between the two nations.

Also read: 5 Breathtaking India Attractions That Will Remind You of Europe

Why this new route matters for Filipinos

Image credit: Air India Official Facebook Page

With India’s vibrant cities, majestic temples, and mouthwatering cuisine just one direct flight away, Filipino travellers now have easier access than ever. Whether you're planning a spiritual journey to the Golden Temple in Amritsar, exploring the historic forts of Rajasthan, or shopping in the bustling markets of Delhi, your travel experience just got more seamless.

From October 01, 2025, Air India will operate 5x weekly Delhi–Manila flights, every Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday. The Delhi to Manila flight departs at 1:20 PM IST and arrives at 10:40 PM PST, while the return Manila to Delhi flight leaves at 11:40 PM PST and lands at 3:50 AM IST the next day.

The flights will use Air India’s modern Airbus A321neo aircraft, offering three classes of service: Business Class, Premium Economy, and Economy Class. That means there's something for every type of traveller, from backpackers to business delegates.

A boost for both sides

(L) Rizal Monument in Rizal Park | Leonid Andronov via Canva Pro; (R) India Gate | Nitish Waila via Canva Pro

For Indian tourists, the Philippines is now more accessible. The recent announcement of visa-free travel to the Philippines for Indian nationals for up to 14 days is expected to drive more visitors to destinations like Boracay, Palawan, and Cebu. This is good news for the local economy, as Indian tourists are among the highest global spenders.

According to Air India CEO Campbell Wilson, the new flights support the airline’s mission to connect India more closely to the world, particularly as outbound travel from India continues to surge. Meanwhile, Carmelo Arcilla, Executive Director of the Civil Aeronautics Board, hinted at the potential for more direct flights from other Indian cities, once operations in Manila take off smoothly.

Also read: Exploring Jaipur – The Pink City of India

Book your flight now

Bookings for the Air India Delhi–Manila flights are now open via their website, mobile app, travel agents, and other platforms. With the Philippines and India drawing closer through better air connectivity, now is a great time to start planning that long-overdue trip.

Whether you're craving a curry in Chandni Chowk or a soulful sunrise in Varanasi, the wonders of India are now just a single flight away!