Air India Adds fresh Flights to South Asian Destination with A321neo

NEW DELHI- Tata Group-owned Air India (AI) announced the launch of non-stop flights between Delhi (DEL) and Manila (MNL), commencing October 1, 2025.

The national carrier becomes the only airline operating direct flights between India and the Philippines, establishing unprecedented connectivity through its Delhi hub while enhancing tourism, trade, and cultural exchanges between both nations.

Photo- Air India

Air India Delhi to Manila Flight

Air India (AI) will operate the Delhi-Manila route 5 days weekly on Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays using Airbus A321neo aircraft.

The service features a 3-class cabin configuration offering Business Class, Premium Economy Class, and Economy Class options to accommodate diverse passenger preferences.

The route timing strategically aligns with recent Philippine policy changes that introduced visa-free entry for Indian tourists for up to 14 days. This enhanced accessibility significantly improves conditions for Indians seeking to explore Boracay’s white-sand beaches, Palawan’s stunning landscapes, and Cebu’s historical landmarks.

Rizal Park, Torre de Manila; Photo- Wikipedia

Executive Remarks

Campbell Wilson, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of Air India (AI), positioned the Delhi-Manila route as another milestone in the airline’s mission to connect India with global destinations non-stop.

Wilson emphasised that outbound travel from India grows at an unprecedented pace, with Indian tourists ranking among the highest global spenders.

The executive highlighted how new entry rules for Indian tourists provide crucial momentum for boosting the Philippines’ tourism while facilitating cultural exchange and economic collaboration between both nations.

Wilson expressed satisfaction in bringing the transformed Air India (AI) to more international travellers.

Photo: Air India

Tourism and Trade Foundations

The Philippines presents substantial tourism potential for Indian travellers through its 7,000-plus islands featuring diverse cultural and modern attractions.

The archipelago nation offers a dynamic blend of natural beauty, historical sites, and contemporary experiences appealing to various traveller segments.

Air India’s new route supports expanding bilateral trade relationships between India and the Philippines, which reached USD 3.53 billion in 2023-24. This figure nearly doubles the USD 1.89 billion recorded in 2015-16, according to Embassy of India data from Manila, demonstrating sustained economic growth between the countries.

Photo: Air India

Global Connectivity

The flight schedule ensures direct connectivity from India while providing seamless one-stop connectivity from Europe via Delhi. This routing strategy positions Delhi as a strategic hub for European travellers seeking access through Air India’s expanding network.

The service extends market reach beyond direct India-Philippines traffic, creating additional revenue opportunities while strengthening Air India’s hub-and-spoke operational model for international expansion.

Photo- Air India

Flight Schedule

Photo- Air India

Booking Opens

Bookings for Air India’s Delhi-Manila flights opened across all distribution channels, including the airline’s website, mobile application, airport ticketing offices, contact centres, and through travel agents.

The comprehensive availability ensures market-wide access for travellers while supporting Air India’s distribution strategy and maximising revenue potential from the route’s launch.

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