Department of Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco said the upcoming Air India flights to Manila by the latter part of 2025 will boost connectivity and confidence in the Philippine tourism sector.
Speaking at a forum organized by the European Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines (ECCP) on Wednesday, Frasco said preparations are underway to launch the new route, with close coordination among Air India, the Department of Transportation (DOTr), the Civil Aviation Board (CAB) and private sector stakeholders.
“The national government is in full support of welcoming this inaugural flight from India. We are looking to India as a huge potential source market for the Philippines,” she said, noting that the recent launch of the electronic visa system has paved the way for easier travel access.
The announcement follows the entry of carriers such as Air France and Air Canada into the Philippine market.
Frasco said the opening of European routes after 30 years is a “vote of confidence in Philippine tourism”, and more carriers from Europe are expected to follow suit.
She also highlighted the Philippines’ growing interest in expanding air connectivity with the Middle East and Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, where arrival growth surged by 500 percent to 800 percent.
Frasco also emphasized South Korea’s continued importance as the country’s top source market.
She acknowledged the challenges in the outbound Korean travel market due to weakening Korean won, but said the DOT is ramping up promotional campaigns and strengthening ties with stakeholders both in Korea and the Philippines.
“We are watching this very, very closely. With the measures we are putting in place and our partnerships with DOTR, DILG, and the Tourism Promotions Board, we hope to sustain and further grow Korean arrivals,” Frasco said.