Philippine Airlines (PAL | PR) is preparing to strengthen its international network in South Asia with plans to launch nonstop services connecting Manila (MNL to Delhi (DEL) and Mumbai (BOM) in December 2026. The upcoming routes, which remain subject to necessary approval from the Indian Government, will establish direct air links to two of India’s most important cultural, financial, and commercial centers. By introducing these non-stop flights, the Philippine flag carrier aims to provide Filipino travelers with significantly more convenient and seamless direct access for business ventures, leisure travel, and cultural exploration across India.
Expressing enthusiasm for the planned network expansion, the leadership of the airline highlighted the strategic importance of expanding into the rapidly growing Indian aviation market. “Opening services to Delhi and Mumbai strengthens PAL’s network in one of Asia’s most dynamic economies. These routes will create new opportunities for Filipinos to explore India while supporting the growing movement of travelers, businesses and goods between our two countries,” according to PAL President Richard Nuttall.
Based on the official schedule released by the flag carrier, flights between Manila (MNL) and Delhi (DEL) will run three times weekly, with departures scheduled every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. Designated as flight PR642, the outbound leg will depart Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Manila at 2240H and land in Delhi at 0300H the following morning. The return service, operating under flight number PR643, will depart Delhi every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday at 0815H and arrive back in Manila at 1700H.
Meanwhile, Philippine Airlines will serve the Manila (MNL) to Mumbai (BOM) sector four times a week, offering late-night departures every Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday. Flight PR646 is set to leave Manila (MNL) at 2240H, touching down in Mumbai (BOM) at 0305H the next day. The return flight, PR647, will operate every Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday, departing Mumbai at 0715H and arriving in Manila at 1700H. All listed departure and arrival schedules reflect local times in the respective cities.
Both Indian routes will be operated using the carrier’s modern Airbus A321neo aircraft configured with 168 seats. The single-aisle aircraft features 12 fully lie-flat Business Class seats alongside 156 Economy Class seats, giving travelers comfortable options for the medium-haul journey. Throughout the flight, passengers will receive full-service amenities including curated inflight meals, on-demand inflight entertainment, and the airline’s signature brand of heartfelt service.
The two direct destinations cater to distinct travel markets within India. Delhi serves as the main gateway to northern regions, seat of government, and world-famous historic landmarks, whereas Mumbai functions as the financial capital, economic driver, and central hub for culture and entertainment. Beyond passenger travel, the scheduled operations will expand belly-hold cargo capacity between the Philippines and India, allowing commercial shipments to connect smoothly into the airline’s broader international cargo logistics network.
To further assist travelers planning to visit India, Filipino passport holders can utilize the country’s online e-Visa program to simplify their entry preparations for Delhi, Mumbai, and beyond. By opening direct gateways to these major cities, the flag carrier continues its commitment to bringing Filipinos closer to global culture, heritage, and trade. Prospective passengers will be able to book these upcoming flights directly through the official website, the mobile app, ticket sales offices, the hotline, or authorized travel agents.