Direct air connectivity between India and the Philippines is on the horizon as officials from the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) met with Air India executives on February 18, 2025, to discuss launching non-stop flights between the two nations.
The discussions focused on regulatory approvals, safety standards, operational requirements, and technical documentation necessary to facilitate direct routes. CAAP emphasised its commitment to streamlining the approval process while maintaining stringent safety protocols.
The move comes as the Philippines continues to attract an increasing number of Indian travellers. In 2024, approximately 79,000 Indian tourists visited the country—a 12% increase from the previous year. The surge is credited to the nation’s picturesque beaches, vibrant nightlife, and the introduction of an e-Visa system, simplifying travel for Indian visitors.
Currently, passengers traveling between India and the Philippines must rely on layovers in transit hubs like Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Bangkok, or Hong Kong. Direct flights from major Indian cities such as Delhi and Mumbai to Manila would significantly reduce travel time and provide greater convenience.
Aside from Air India, low-cost carrier IndiGo has also expressed interest in operating flights on this route. The Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) has indicated that discussions with multiple airlines, including Air India, are progressing positively.
The Indian Ambassador to the Philippines, Harsh Kumar Jain, underscored the importance of direct connectivity, stating, “Direct flights will enhance people-to-people contacts, making travel easier for work, leisure, and academic purposes.” He hinted that the launch could take place in the coming months.
The establishment of direct flights is expected to strengthen trade and investment opportunities between India and the Philippines. The absence of a direct route has often been cited as a hurdle for business expansion and collaboration. A seamless air link could boost investments in key sectors such as technology, pharmaceuticals, manufacturing, and education.
This development aligns with the updated Air Services Agreement (ASA) signed between the two countries in September 2021. The agreement, built upon previous accords from 2018 and 1949, aims to liberalize the aviation market by allowing multiple airlines to operate and expand services, ultimately increasing competition and flight frequency.
With discussions progressing, direct flights between India and the Philippines are expected to become a reality soon, marking a significant milestone in strengthening bilateral relations.
