Israel’s national carrier, EL AL Airlines (LY), has announced plans to introduce nonstop flights between Israel and the Philippines, marking a significant milestone in air connectivity between the Middle East and Southeast Asia. The proposed Tel Aviv–Manila service forms part of the airline’s most ambitious network expansion to date, which will see nine new destinations added beginning in 2027.
In a social media post published on Monday, EL AL revealed that it is rolling out the broadest route network in its history as it accelerates its long-term growth strategy. Among the highlights of the expansion are new long-haul nonstop routes to Hanoi in Vietnam, Seoul in South Korea, and Manila in the Philippines. Each of these routes is planned to operate three times weekly using the airline’s Boeing B787 Dreamliner fleet.
According to EL AL, the Dreamliner aircraft will be configured with Economy, Premium Economy, and Business Class cabins, aiming to cater to a wide range of travelers, from tourists and overseas workers to business executives and premium passengers. The airline said departures from Israel for the new routes are scheduled to begin in March 2027, subject to regulatory approvals.
The planned nonstop flight between Israel and Manila follows a series of discussions on the feasibility of establishing a direct air link between the two countries. Aviation and tourism stakeholders have long viewed such a route as a potential catalyst for increased tourism, stronger business ties, and enhanced people-to-people exchanges. Currently, travelers flying between Israel and the Philippines rely on one or more stopovers, often transiting through hubs in the Gulf, East Asia, or Europe.
For the Philippines, a direct Tel Aviv–Manila service could open new opportunities in inbound tourism, particularly among Israeli travelers seeking leisure, diving, and cultural experiences. It could also benefit the Filipino community in Israel, as well as businesses engaged in trade, technology, agriculture, and healthcare cooperation between the two nations.
EL AL confirmed that ticket sales for its new Hanoi route are already open, signaling the airline’s confidence in demand for expanded services in Southeast Asia. Meanwhile, ticket sales for the Seoul route are set to begin in May 2026. Details for the Manila route, including the start of ticket sales, specific flight schedules, and exact launch date, will be announced at a later time.
On its official website, EL AL noted that while the Hanoi and Seoul routes have clearer timelines, the Manila service remains subject to regulatory approvals from relevant aviation authorities. These approvals typically cover traffic rights, safety oversight, and bilateral air service agreements.
The announcement comes as EL AL continues to rebuild and modernize its network following years of disruption to global air travel. By investing in fuel-efficient long-haul aircraft and expanding into fast-growing Asian markets, the airline is positioning itself to compete more aggressively with other full-service carriers operating between Asia and the Middle East.
If finalized, the nonstop Israel–Philippines route would represent one of the longest direct flights from Tel Aviv and a landmark addition to air links between Israel and Southeast Asia. Aviation analysts say the move highlights EL AL’s confidence in long-haul demand and highlights Manila’s growing importance as a regional gateway in Asia.