MANILA, Philippines — Flag carrier Philippine Airlines (PAL) is set to expand its Asian footprint by launching direct flights to Delhi and Mumbai in December, introducing new competition to the growing aviation market between the Philippines and India.
The expansion marks PAL’s return to the Indian market over a decade after halting its previous service due to weak demand. PAL will become the second carrier to operate direct flights between the two nations, joining Air India, while Indian low-cost carrier IndiGo has also expressed intent to secure permits for Philippine routes.
PAL will deploy its 168-seat Airbus A321neo aircraft for both routes, which remain subject to regulatory approval from Indian authorities.
PAL President Richard Nuttall highlighted the strategic importance of entering two of India’s major commercial centers, particularly as both nations prepare to negotiate a preferential trade agreement (PTA) next year.
“These routes will create new opportunities for Filipinos to explore India while supporting the growing movement of travelers, businesses and goods between our two countries,” said Nuttall.
The scheduled flight schedules for the new routes are:
- Manila–Delhi: Operates every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, departing Manila at 10:40 p.m. and landing in Delhi at 3:00 a.m. the following day. Return flights leave Delhi at 8:15 a.m. and arrive in Manila at 5:00 p.m.
- Manila–Mumbai: Operates every Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday, departing Manila at 10:40 p.m. and landing in Mumbai at 3:05 a.m. the next day. Return flights leave Mumbai at 7:15 a.m. and land in Manila at 5:00 p.m.
In addition to passenger travel, PAL expects the new routes to boost its international cargo capacity to support bilateral trade.