Direct service from Delhi to Manila set to commence as of October 1st, according to MEA announcement
Direct Flights Between India and the Philippines Set to Launch in 2025
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr of the Philippines is currently on a state visit to India, marking a new era of closer engagement between the two nations. The visit, scheduled from August 4 to August 8, 2023, is expected to further strengthen bilateral ties.
One of the significant developments announced during the visit is the resumption of direct flights between India and the Philippines. Air India will launch direct flight services between Delhi and Manila, providing a direct air link between the two capitals, starting from October 1, 2025.
This news coincides with new visa arrangements aimed at enhancing tourism and bilateral ties. Indian tourists will now enjoy visa-free entry to the Philippines, while Filipino tourists will be granted free e-visas to travel to India. The decision to allow free e-visas for Filipino tourists was made in response to the visa-free entry privileges announced for Indian tourists in the Philippines.
The Ministry of External Affairs is also exploring possibilities of expanding air links to additional destinations between India and the Philippines. Further discussions on destinations and how to expand the direct air connectivity will be held.
The direct flights between India and Manila are planned for this year, with Flight AI 2362 expected to depart from Delhi at 13:20 and arrive in Manila, marking the commencement of this service from October 1, 2025.
President Marcos announced these visa-free entry privileges during a joint press statement, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi has agreed to reciprocate the scheme for Filipino tourists to visit India.
The visit is expected to provide opportunities for both nations to discuss and collaborate on mutual interests and concerns. President Marcos is also expected to meet with President Droupadi Murmu later in the day.
With these developments, it appears that India and the Philippines are poised to enhance their cooperation in various areas, making travel between the two countries more accessible and fostering stronger ties between the nations.
- The launch of direct flights between India and the Philippines in 2025 presents an opportunity for travelers to easily traverse both nations, contributing to the enhancement of lifestyle and travel sectors.
- The announcement of visa-free entry for Indian tourists in the Philippines and free e-visas for Filipino tourists in India offers a positive general-news perspective, likely to impact the opinions of citizens and businesses in both countries.
- As India and the Philippines strengthen their bilateral ties with favorable changes in news such as direct flights and visa arrangements, the business sector may find new opportunities for collaboration and growth in areas like tourism and trade.
