Pack your bags, buckle up: India-Philippines direct flights 'soon'

Manila: The skies between India and the Philippines are about to get a lot busier — and way more exciting.

At the Indian Republic Day reception in Taguig City on Monday (January 27), Indian Ambassador to the Philippines Shri Harsh Kumar Jain dropped some hints that got everyone buzzing: direct flights between India and the Philippines could finally take off in the next few months.

If you're tired of layovers and airport hopping, you're not alone.

Air India, IndiGo

The potential launch of non-stop flights is already making waves, with India’s flag carrier Air India and budget airline IndiGo being considered to handle these direct routes.

This development couldn’t come at a better time. With the Philippines ramping up efforts to tap into India’s massive outbound tourism market, it’s clear that boosting “people-to-people contacts” is top of mind.

Local tourism officials are aiming to ramp up arrivals, and India’s booming travel industry offers the perfect opportunity.

Tourism measures in the works

The Philippines is pulling out all the stops to attract Indian tourists. Last year, the e-Visa system for Indian nationals was introduced, and now, there’s even talk of an India-Philippine tourism action plan.

This includes not just flights to Manila, but potentially direct flights to popular destinations like Cebu and Clark.

Not just Manila

“We’re advocating for flights that don’t just stop in Manila,” Philippine Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco shared enthusiastically.

“Cebu, Clark, and other island destinations are perfect for Indian travelllers, whether for leisure, weddings, or MICE events (meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions).”

Boosting travel engagements

The Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) is also kicking things into high gear. From trade shows to partnerships with the Indian Chamber of Commerce in the Philippines, there’s no shortage of efforts to make Indian tourists feel welcome.

According to TPB Chief Operating Officer Maria Margarita Nograles, “India is a key focus market, and we’re working closely with stakeholders to build strong connections.”

Why Indians are key to PH tourism

Now, let’s crunch some numbers: in 2024, around 79,000 Indian tourists visited the Philippines, marking a 12% growth compared to 2023. That’s impressive, but still modest compared to the 4.2 million Indians who flocked to Southeast Asia last year.

This signals plenty of untapped potential for the Philippines to become a must-visit destination for Indian travelers.

From relaxing on pristine beaches to celebrating weddings against breathtaking backdrops, the Philippines offers a wide variety of attractions tailored to Indian tastes.

“Our islands are perfect for any type of trip — whether you’re single, married, or traveling with a big family,” Frasco said with pride.

Why this is a big deal

For Indian travellers, these direct flights mean less travel stress and more time to explore. For the Philippines, it’s a chance to open the floodgates to an ever-growing market of eager tourists who spend big on leisure, business, and grand events like destination weddings.