Published: 29 September 2026 | Updated: 29 September 2026
There is great news for Indian travellers dreaming of visiting the Philippines. Philippine Airlines has announced that it will start direct nonstop flights from Manila to Delhi and Mumbai from December 2026 — this Philippine Airlines Delhi Mumbai direct flights news is especially important for everyone who wants to avoid long layovers. This is happening at a time when the Philippines has also given visa-free entry to Indians. Let’s look at the schedule, aircraft, visa rules, and booking tips.
Philippine Airlines Delhi Mumbai direct flights: what was announced
Philippine Airlines (PAL) announced its new India plan on 25 September 2026. Airline president Richard Nuttall said these routes will boost travel and cargo between the two countries. According to reports, this signals PAL’s return to India after nearly 13 years.
Most notably: there has been no direct flight on Mumbai-Manila until now — PAL will offer the first nonstop service. Air India already flies daily on Delhi-Manila, but PAL’s arrival will provide a second full-service option and increase competition on fares. Note that these launches are subject to Government of India approval, so check the final schedule only on the official website.
Flight schedule: which flight flies when
On both routes, flights will depart Manila at night and reach India in the morning; the return legs will depart in the morning and reach Manila by evening.
| Route | Flight No. | Days | Departure | Arrival (local time) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Manila → Delhi | PR642 | Mon, Wed, Fri | 10:40 PM | 3:00 AM (next day) |
| Delhi → Manila | PR643 | Tue, Thu, Sat | 8:15 AM | 5:00 PM |
| Manila → Mumbai | PR646 | Tue, Thu, Sat, Sun | 10:40 PM | 3:05 AM (next day) |
| Mumbai → Manila | PR647 | Mon, Wed, Fri, Sun | 7:15 AM | 5:00 PM |
The Delhi route will operate 3 days a week and the Mumbai route 4 days a week. The advantage of night departures is that you land directly at your destination in the morning and save a day of hotel stay.
Philippine Airlines Delhi Mumbai direct flights: aircraft and visa entry
PAL will deploy its Airbus A321neo on both routes — 168 seats in total, including 12 lie-flat Business Class seats and 156 Economy seats. Being full-service, inflight meals and entertainment will come as standard. Special for Indian passengers: PAL will offer Indian-inspired inflight meals, including vegetarian and Jain options.
The biggest benefit of the new flights comes when entry is easy — the Philippines has implemented a visa-free entry policy for eligible Indian nationals. Following this, the number of Indian tourists visiting the Philippines in the first half of 2026 reached 60,583, 43% more than last year (according to reports). Generally, a passport with 6 months of validity, a return ticket, and a hotel booking are required; verify the latest rules on the official immigration portal. From Manila, connections to islands like Cebu, Bacolod, Iloilo, and Davao will also be available.
Practical tips for booking tickets
- Turn on fare alerts: introductory fares are commonly available in the initial months.
- Choose weekdays: Tuesday-Wednesday flights are often cheaper.
- Check the baggage policy: allowance may differ by route.
- Check visa-free eligibility: just having a ticket is not enough.
- Take travel insurance: medical emergency costs abroad are very high.
For more new routes, see India New International Direct Flights: Routes Update, and for budget planning, the Thailand 5D Package: Bangkok Pattaya Budget Itinerary will come in handy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. When will the flights start?
From December 2026, subject to Government of India approval. If delayed, the schedule may shift.
Q2. Do Indians need a visa for the Philippines?
There is visa-free entry for eligible Indians; verify eligibility on the official portal.
Q3. Is there already a direct flight on Mumbai-Manila?
No — according to reports, PAL will offer the first nonstop service on this route.
Q4. Will vegetarian food be available on the flight?
Yes — Indian-inspired meals including vegetarian and Jain options will be available.
Q5. Who flies on Delhi-Manila?
Air India flies daily; Boeing 787 operations are planned from late October 2026.
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Sources
- Business Traveller — https://www.businesstraveller.com/news/philippine-airlines-delhi-mumbai-flights-2026/
- Travel Trade Journal — https://traveltradejournal.com/philippine-airlines-to-launch-delhi-and-mumbai-services-in-december-2026/
- Tourism Affairs — https://www.tourismaffairs.in/aviation/philippine-airlines-to-serve-delhi-and-mumbai-from-december-2026/
- Air Traveler Club — https://www.airtraveler.club/news/philippine-airlines-nonstop-manila-delhi-mumbai-flights-december-2026/