Arkia plans to launch direct flights from Tel Aviv to Manila in January 2027
Israeli airline Arkia plans to launch a direct seasonal route from Tel Aviv, Israel, to Manila, the capital of the Philippines, on January 3, 2027. This will be the first direct air connection between Israel and the Philippines, the Jerusalem Post reports.
Schedule and prices
Flights will operate once a week from January through April. Departures from Tel Aviv are scheduled for Sunday afternoon, while return flights from Manila will depart on Monday morning.
The estimated flight time to Manila will be about 11 hours, while the return journey will take 12 hours and 20 minutes. One-way ticket prices will start at $750 in economy class and $1,800 in business class.
Arkia will use a wide-body Airbus A330 provided by GullivAir for the flights. The cabin will have 268 economy-class seats and 19 business-class seats that recline into fully flat beds. Business-class passengers will also receive an increased baggage allowance, lounge access, travel kits, and meals by Arkia chef Shahaf Shabtai.
More current news is available on the UA.News Telegram channel Telegram.
Development of long-haul routes
Arkia CEO Oz Berlowitz described the Manila route as part of the strategy to develop long-haul flights and strengthen the company's operations in the Far East. Among the carrier's other long-haul destinations, the source names New York, Bangkok, Phuket, Hanoi, and Tokyo.
Philippine Ambassador to Israel Aileen Mendiola said that she had approached lawmakers with a proposal for a direct flight. According to her, the route is expected to promote tourism, business, and economic ties, as well as connect Israeli tourists, Filipino pilgrims to the Holy Land, and Filipino workers with their families.
Manila is the Philippines' main international aviation hub and provides onward connections to tourist destinations including Palawan, Boracay, and Cebu.
