Air India Launches Non-Stop Delhi–Manila Flights

Air India has introduced non-stop flight services between Delhi and Manila, becoming the first Indian airline to offer direct connectivity to the Philippines. The inaugural flight departed earlier this month from Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport, marking an important step in strengthening travel and economic links between the two nations.

Visa-Free Entry To Encourage Indian Travellers

The launch follows the Philippines’ recent decision to allow Indian tourists visa-free entry for up to 14 days. The move is expected to stimulate tourism and cultural exchange, while also encouraging greater business and investment ties between the two countries. Together, these developments are anticipated to enhance people-to-people connections and support economic growth on both sides.

Five Weekly Flights

The new service to Manila operates five times a week—on Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays—providing flexibility and convenience for passengers. Air India is deploying its Airbus A321LR aircraft on the route, which features three cabin classes: Business Class, Premium Economy, and Economy, offering a range of options to suit different traveller needs.

The introduction of the direct route comes amid rising demand for both leisure and business travel between India and the Philippines. Beyond strengthening bilateral connectivity, the service provides Filipino travellers with convenient one-stop access to Air India’s wide-ranging network across Europe and North America via Delhi. With Manila now added to its schedule, Air India operates flights to eight destinations in seven Southeast Asian countries, reinforcing its growing footprint in the region.

Enhanced Comfort and Premium Service

The Delhi–Manila route is operated using the Airbus A321LR, featuring three cabin classes: Business, Premium Economy, and Economy. Air India is among the few airlines in Southeast Asia to offer fully flat beds in Business Class on a single-aisle aircraft, underscoring its commitment to delivering a premium travel experience.

Flight Schedule and Timings

According to Air India, flight AI2362 will depart Delhi at 1:20 pm and arrive in Manila at 10:40 pm, operating five times a week on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. The return service, AI2361, will depart Manila at 11:40 pm and reach Delhi at 3:50 am the following day, following the same five-day schedule. All timings are in local time.

FAQs

How often does Air India operate flights between Delhi and Manila?
Air India operates the Delhi–Manila route five times a week—on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.

What aircraft is used on this route?
The flights are operated using the Airbus A321LR, which features Business, Premium Economy, and Economy cabins.

What are the flight timings?
Flight AI2362 departs Delhi at 1:20 pm and arrives in Manila at 10:40 pm. The return flight AI2361 departs Manila at 11:40 pm and lands in Delhi at 3:50 am the following day. All times are local.

Do Indian travellers need a visa to visit the Philippines?
Indian tourists can now enjoy visa-free entry to the Philippines for stays of up to 14 days, provided they meet the entry requirements set by Philippine authorities.

Can Filipino travellers connect to other destinations via Delhi?
Yes. The new service provides convenient one-stop connections from Manila to Air India’s extensive network in Europe and North America through Delhi.