Arkia Launches Direct Flights to Manila in 2027
Translated & summarized from Calcalist by baba
Arkia is launching a new direct flight route from Tel Aviv to Manila, Philippines, starting January 3, 2027. The airline will operate weekly flights, aiming to expand its long-haul network and tap into tourism and business potential.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Arkia will launch direct flights to Manila in January 2027.
- The route will operate weekly on Sundays using an Airbus A330.
- Ticket prices start at $750 for economy and $1,800 for business.
- This expands Arkia's long-haul network and aims to boost tourism.
- The service is expected to increase competition on flights to the Philippines.
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.
The same event, reported separately by each outlet. Open a few to compare what different newsrooms emphasize — and what they leave out.
Left 1Centre 6Right 2Other 8
Not the same event — other stories that share this one’s people, places, or theme: background, reactions, and follow-ups.