EL AL Airlines Unveils Plans for Direct Israel-Philippines Flights
In a significant development for international travel, Israel's national carrier, EL AL Airlines, has announced its intention to launch nonstop flights between Israel and the Philippines. This move comes after extensive discussions on establishing a direct air link, which is expected to enhance tourism, business travel, and people-to-people exchanges between the two nations.
Expanding Route Network with New Asian Destinations
According to a social media post on Monday, February 9, 2026, EL AL is rolling out the broadest route network in its history, with nine new destinations scheduled to launch in 2027. The expansion includes new long-haul nonstop flights to key Asian cities: Hanoi in Vietnam, Seoul in South Korea, and Manila in the Philippines. Each destination will be served with three weekly flights operated using the airline's Dreamliner aircraft, offering economy, premium, and business class options.
The planned Manila route is part of this strategic growth initiative, aimed at tapping into the growing demand for travel between Israel and Southeast Asia. While ticket sales for Hanoi flights are already open and sales for Seoul will begin in May, further details on the Manila route, including the start of sales and flight schedules, will be announced at a later date.
Regulatory Approvals and Implementation Timeline
On its official website, EL AL indicated that departures from Israel for these new routes are set to commence in March 2027. However, the Manila route remains subject to regulatory approvals, highlighting the importance of compliance with aviation authorities in both countries. This cautious approach ensures that all safety and operational standards are met before the service begins.
The introduction of nonstop flights is seen as a major boost to bilateral relations, facilitating easier access for tourists, business professionals, and cultural exchanges. It aligns with broader trends in the aviation industry, where airlines are increasingly focusing on direct connections to reduce travel time and enhance passenger convenience.
Context of Tourism Growth in the Philippines
This announcement comes at a time when the Philippines is actively working to boost its tourism sector. For instance, the country is anticipating a surge in Indian tourists following the implementation of a 14-day visa-free, non-extendible, and non-convertible policy for Indian nationals effective June 8, 2025. With India currently the fifth largest source market for visitors, this policy aims to build on the 12.4 percent growth in 2024 and capture a greater share of India's fast-growing outbound market.
Similarly, the new EL AL flights could attract more Israeli tourists and business travelers to the Philippines, contributing to economic growth and cultural diversity. The direct link is expected to reduce travel barriers, making the Philippines a more accessible destination for international visitors.
Overall, EL AL's expansion into the Philippines represents a positive step towards strengthening global connectivity and fostering international cooperation in the travel and tourism sectors.
