Air India Launches Direct Flights To Manila Boosting India-Philippines Tourism

Air India is taking travel to new heights with the launch of non-stop flight services between Delhi and Manila. The inaugural flight took off earlier this month from Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport, making Air India the first Indian airline to offer direct flights to the Philippines. This development closely follows the Philippines' recent decision to allow Indian tourists visa-free entry for up to 14 days. The new connection is expected to significantly enhance tourism and business travel between the two nations, providing a major boost to both economies.

The flights operate five times a week: on Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays. These services are run using the Airbus A321LR aircraft, which features three cabins for passenger comfort: Business Class, Premium Economy, and Economy.

Also Read: Visa-Free Travel For Indians: Why The Philippines Deserves A Spot On Your Radar

The direct route is perfectly timed to cater to the increasing travel demand in both the leisure and business sectors. The new service also benefits Filipino travellers, offering them convenient, one-stop connections to Europe and North America via Delhi. With this addition, Air India now operates flights to eight destinations across seven countries in Southeast Asia.

Top Five Things To Do In The Philippines

1. Explore history in Intramuros

Intramuros is the historic walled city of Manila, where you can immerse yourself in centuries of Filipino history under Spanish rule. Prominent sites to visit include Fort Santiago, San Agustin Church, and Calle Crisologo.

2. Island hopping in Palawan

The province of Palawan is a popular destination for island hopping, offering stunning lagoons, white-sand beaches, and diverse marine life. Be sure to explore the Puerto Princesa Underground River, a spectacular cave system with a navigable underground river.

3. Dive and snorkel in marine sanctuaries

With its clear waters and vibrant reefs, the Philippines offers incredible opportunities for underwater exploration. You can go freediving or scuba diving in the Apo Reef Natural Park or swim with massive schools of sardines at Moalboal.

4. See the Banaue Rice Terraces

Dubbed the "Eighth Wonder of the World," these 2,000-year-old terraces were hand-carved into the mountains by the ancestors of the local indigenous Ifugao people. Visit this UNESCO World Heritage Site for stunning panoramic views of the amphitheater-shaped rice paddies.

Also Read: Visa-Free Travel: Philippines Introduces Visa-Free Entry For Indian Passport Holders. Details Here

5. Relax on Boracay's White Beach

Boracay's White Beach is a world-renowned destination for its powdery white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters. You can enjoy a stroll along the shore, swim in the clear waters, or simply lounge under a palm tree with a fresh coconut.

The direct Delhi-Manila link promises to be a game-changer, fostering deeper economic and cultural ties between India and the Philippines.