No more layovers! Air India’s direct Delhi–Manila flight brings the Philippines closer to India

Fly Non-Stop from Delhi to Manila — Your Gateway to the Philippines’ 7,000 Islands Just Got Closer!

Tropical islands, turquoise waters, and a culture as warm as its sunsets — the Philippines has long been on every traveller’s bucket list. And now, for Indian travellers, this Southeast Asian paradise has never been more accessible.

With visa-free entry and direct flights from Delhi to Manila, travelling to the Philippines is smoother than ever. Starting October 1, 2025, Air India launched its first-ever non-stop flight connecting New Delhi and Manila, creating a historic bridge between the two nations. It’s been nearly a month since the route began, and the buzz among Indian travellers is unmistakable.

Under the Philippines’ new visa-free policy, Indian passport holders can enjoy a 14-day stay without a visa, perfect for a spontaneous getaway or island-hopping escape. The combination of simplified travel and direct connectivity is expected to boost tourism, trade, education, and cultural exchange between the two countries — a win-win for travellers and businesses alike.

The Route: Seamless Travel from Delhi to Manila

Air India’s non-stop service operates five days a week — Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday — on its Airbus A321neo aircraft, featuring three cabins: Business, Premium Economy, and Economy.

• Flight Schedule:

AI2361 (Manila → Delhi): Departs 11:40 PM (local time), arrives 3:50 AM (IST)

• Duration: 6 hours 50 minutes.
• Fares start at: Rs 26,475* (one way).

Why Manila Deserves a Spot on Your 2025 Travel List

The bustling capital of the Philippines, Manila, is where colonial heritage meets modern glamour. Explore the walled city of Intramuros, the historic Fort Santiago, and the San Agustin Church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Beyond its heritage, Manila offers world-class shopping at Greenbelt and SM Mall of Asia, lively nightlife at Bonifacio Global City, and a waterfront that glows at sunset along Manila Bay.

Food lovers can dive into Filipino cuisine — from adobo and lechon to fresh halo-halo desserts — or sip locally grown coffee in quirky cafés scattered across the city.

Beyond Manila: 7,000 Islands of Tropical Magic

The Philippines is an archipelago of over 7,000 islands, each offering something unique:

1. Palawan – A slice of paradise known for its turquoise lagoons, hidden coves, and El Nido’s limestone cliffs.

2. Cebu – Ideal for diving, beaches, and island-hopping adventures.

3. Boracay – Famous for its powder-white sands and vibrant nightlife.

4. Bohol – Home to the iconic Chocolate Hills and cute tarsiers.

5. Siargao – A surfer’s dream with laid-back island vibes and crystal-clear lagoons.

Whether you crave underwater adventures, mountain hikes, or cultural festivals, the Philippines promises a perfect blend of adventure and serenity.

A New Chapter in India–Philippines Travel

Air India’s launch marks a milestone — it’s the only airline offering non-stop flights between India and the Philippines, drastically cutting travel time and eliminating layovers in Bangkok, Singapore, or Kuala Lumpur.

With visa-free entry and direct flights, Indian travellers now have another tropical gem to explore — one that’s rich in culture, colour, and coastlines.

So, if you’ve been dreaming of turquoise seas and island sunsets, the Philippines just got a whole lot closer.