Arkia Launches Direct Flights to Manila in 2027

Israeli airline Arkia announced Tuesday the launch of a new direct route to Manila, Philippines, set to commence on January 3, 2027. The airline will operate one weekly flight on Sundays from Tel Aviv to Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL), with a flight duration of approximately 11 hours eastbound and 12 hours and 20 minutes westbound.

The route will be serviced by a wide-body Airbus A330 aircraft, featuring both business and economy class cabins. Ticket prices will start at $750 for economy class and $1,800 for business class, one-way.

Manila joins Arkia's expanding network of long-haul destinations, which includes New York, Bangkok, Phuket, Hanoi, and soon Tokyo. This expansion aligns with the company's strategy to increase direct flights to distant locations, a market previously dominated by major foreign airlines and El Al.

The new service is expected to impact competition and airfare prices to the Philippines, as there are currently no active direct flights from Israel to the destination. The weekly flight will also gauge Israeli demand for the Philippines, potentially leading to increased frequency in the future.

Arkia stated that the Philippines offers significant potential for tourism and for deepening business and economic ties between the two countries. The route may also support pilgrim traffic and travel for Filipino workers in Israel and their families.