Air India will begin direct, non-stop flights between Delhi and Manila starting October 1, marking a significant milestone in connectivity between India and the Philippines.
The new service, confirmed by local media sources, will make Air India the first and only carrier currently operating a direct route between the two capital cities. Flights will operate five times a week — on Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays.
Flight AI2362 will depart Delhi at 13:20 IST and land in Manila at 22:40 PHT. The return flight, AI2361, will leave Manila at 23:40 PHT and arrive in Delhi at 03:50 IST the following day.
The service will use Air India’s Airbus A321neo, offering three travel classes — Business, Premium Economy, and Economy — to cater to a variety of passenger needs.
This route is expected to benefit not just tourists, but also professionals, students, and business travelers. Bilateral trade between India and the Philippines reached $3.53 billion in 2023–24, and officials expect these numbers to grow with improved air access.
The move follows the Philippines’ recent announcement of a 14-day visa-free policy for Indian tourists, a development welcomed by the travel sector.
With Delhi emerging as a key international aviation hub, the new Manila connection fits into Air India’s broader expansion strategy across Southeast Asia. The route is set to promote cultural exchange, tourism, and commerce, deepening ties between two fast-growing economies.
