Israeli carrier Arkia is set to launch a new direct flight connecting Tel Aviv with Manila, the capital of the Philippines, beginning January 3, 2027. The airline will operate the weekly route on Sundays, departing from Ben-Gurion Airport in the afternoon and returning from Manila on Monday mornings. This seasonal service is scheduled to run through April.
The announcement comes amid a gradual resumption of international air travel to and from Israel, with U.S. airlines United and Delta recently restarting their Tel Aviv services. Arkia’s Manila route marks a continued expansion of its long-haul international network, which includes destinations such as New York, Bangkok, Phuket, Hanoi, and Tokyo.
Arkia will utilize a wide-body Airbus A330 aircraft, provided by GullivAir, featuring two service classes. The Economy class cabin will offer 268 seats, while the Business class will have 19 fully flat beds. Business travelers will benefit from enhanced baggage allowances, amenity kits, lounge access, and specially designed meals curated by Arkia Executive Chef Shahar Shabtay. One-way Economy tickets will start at $750, with Business class fares beginning at $1,800.
Oz Berlowitz, Arkia’s CEO, described the new Manila route as a strategic move to deepen the airline’s presence in the Far East and broaden its long-haul operations. He highlighted the Philippines as a destination with significant tourism appeal as well as potential for stronger business, economic, and diplomatic ties between the two countries. Berlowitz also emphasized that the addition of the route would introduce competition on this corridor, potentially leading to more attractive fares for Israeli travelers.
Philippine Ambassador to Israel Aileen Mendiola noted that she had proposed the idea of a direct flight to lawmakers in Israel, and progress was swiftly made to bring the route to fruition. This initiative marks the first direct air link between the Philippines and Israel.
Mendiola underscored the growing popularity of the Philippines as a travel destination for Israelis, citing its extensive beaches, rich natural landscapes, and dynamic culture. Manila serves as a central hub, providing access to well-known tourist spots across the archipelago, including Palawan, Boracay, and Cebu.
The ambassador also indicated that the flight had received an exception to operate from Manila’s relatively small but busy airport, reflecting a commitment to enhancing tourism and opening avenues for free trade discussions. As a member of the ASEAN free trade zone, the Philippines offers a network of agreements that Israel could potentially access through business ties registered in Manila.
Mendiola framed the new route as more than just a transportation link, describing it as a bridge between the peoples of Israel and the Philippines. She highlighted the flight’s role in facilitating tourism, supporting Filipino workers traveling home, and enabling Filipino pilgrims visiting the Holy Land.
Beyond tourism, the ambassador expressed hopes that the direct connection would stimulate expanded business and economic engagement. With reciprocal visa-free travel arrangements in place, Israeli companies may find opportunities in the Philippines’ growing semiconductor, artificial intelligence, blue economy, and agricultural sectors. “Manila is about business, and the islands are for tourism,” Mendiola said, emphasizing the dual purpose the new service aims to serve.