Direct Flights from Manila to Israel Set to Launch in January 2027

Arkia Israeli Airlines has announced the launch of direct flights between Manila and Israel starting January 3, 2027. This new route, which will operate once a week from January through April, is anticipated to enhance tourism and strengthen familial, business, and cultural ties between the two nations. The flight will take approximately 11 hours from Tel Aviv to Manila, with a return journey of about 12 hours and 20 minutes, according to the airline's official announcement.

Israeli Ambassador to the Philippines, Dana Kursh, emphasized the significance of this direct air link, describing it as a bridge that will facilitate closer connections between the peoples of the two countries. She noted that the initiative is not merely a tourism endeavor but also a means to strengthen broader diplomatic relations. She highlighted the mutual benefits of increased travel.

The flights will utilize a wide-body Airbus A330 aircraft, offering two classes of service: Economy Class with 268 seats and a premium Business Class with 19 fully flat beds. Ticket prices are expected to start at approximately $750 for Economy and $1,800 for Business Class, as reported by the Jerusalem Post.

Ambassador Kursh expressed optimism regarding the potential for increased travel, citing the significant Filipino community in Israel, which numbers between 110,000 and 120,000 individuals, including around 30,000 overseas Filipino workers. She remarked that the potential number of travelers the new service could generate is significant.

“For us, the sky is the limit.”Dana Kursh, Israeli Ambassador to the Philippines

Philippine Ambassador to Israel, Aileen Mendiola, played a crucial role in the establishment of this route, advocating for the idea with local lawmakers, who quickly recognized its potential. She noted that this will be the first direct flight between the two countries, which have seen growing interest from Israeli travelers in recent years, particularly due to the Philippines' renowned beaches and vibrant culture.

Tourism is a vital sector for the Philippine economy, contributing approximately 8.1% to the GDP in 2025.

As the travel industry continues to recover from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, the new service from Arkia is seen as a significant step towards revitalizing international tourism and fostering deeper connections between the Philippines and Israel.