Arkia Airlines will begin its first direct flight between Tel Aviv’s Ben-Gurion Airport and Manila, Philippines, on January 3, 2027. This new service marks the launch of Arkia’s inaugural route linking Israel and the Philippines.
Flight Schedule and Frequency
The airline will operate the Tel Aviv-Manila route on a seasonal basis from January through April 2027. Flights will run once weekly, departing Tel Aviv on Sunday afternoons and returning from Manila on Monday mornings. The eastbound leg is scheduled to last approximately 11 hours, while the westbound flight duration will be about 12 hours and 20 minutes.
Aircraft and Cabin Configuration
Arkia will deploy a wide-body Airbus A330
aircraft supplied by GullivAir for this route. The aircraft will be configured with 268 seats in Economy Class and 19 fully flat beds in the Business Class cabin. Business Class amenities include increased baggage allowance, amenity kits, lounge access, and designer meals created by Arkia’s Executive Chef Shahaf Shabtay.
Pricing and Service Features
One-way ticket prices will start at $750 for Economy Class and $1,800 for Business Class. Business Class passengers will receive additional service enhancements compared to Economy, including upgraded meals and comfort features.
Arkia’s Expansion in Long-Haul Markets
This new Manila route is part of Arkia’s expanding international network, which already includes long-haul destinations such as New
York, Bangkok, Phuket, Hanoi, and Tokyo. The airline is broadening its long-haul operations to strengthen its presence in the Far East and beyond.
Role of the Philippine Embassy and Strategic Significance
The Philippine Embassy in Israel, led by Ambassador Aileen Mendiola, initiated discussions prompting the flight’s development. Ambassador Mendiola secured rapid approval from lawmakers to explore the route, resulting in its launch. She emphasized the flight’s role in connecting the two nations socially and economically.
Benefits for Tourism and Bilateral Relations
Manila serves as a gateway to tourist destinations in the Philippines, including Palawan, Boracay, and Cebu. Arkia’s direct flight aims to facilitate travel for Israeli tourists, Filipino pilgrims visiting Israel, and Filipino workers
returning home. The service is expected to enhance both tourism flows and business ties between Israel and the Philippines.
Industry Context and Official Statements
Arkia CEO Oz Berlowitz described the Manila route as “another step in further deepening Arkia’s operations in the Far East and in implementing our strategic plan for long-haul routes.” He added that the Philippines presents “significant tourism potential” and that the new service will introduce competitive fares on the route.
Philippine Ambassador Aileen Mendiola stated, “This flight is a bridge between our two countries – and, most importantly, between our people.” She stressed the convenience the flight will provide and urged
travelers to “experience the Philippines yourself, don’t just scroll through the feeds.”
Additional Context on Travel and Trade
Visa exemptions exist between Israel and the Philippines, facilitating easier travel. Furthermore, the Philippines’ membership in the ASEAN free trade zone could allow Israel to benefit from regional trade agreements if Arkia registers accordingly. Arkia’s new service may bolster economic sectors including semiconductors, artificial intelligence, maritime economy, and agriculture between the two nations.
