Philippine Airlines (PAL) is set to launch direct flights between Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA | CEB | RPVM) and Ho Chi Minh City’s (Saigon) Tân Sơn Nhất International Airport (SGN | VVTS) on 02 May 2025, marking the first-ever direct air link between Central Visayas and Vietnam’s economic hub.
The new Cebu-Ho Chi Minh City route will operate three times weekly — Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays — catering to the growing demand for travel between the Philippines and Vietnam. In 2024, approximately 216,000 Filipinos visited Vietnam, making it the 9th most popular destination among Filipino travelers.
PAL is also increasing its Manila-Hanoi flights to daily service from the current five times weekly, starting 01 April 2025, to enhance accessibility to Vietnam’s capital, known for its rich culture and history.
Expanding Connectivity and Strengthening Ties
PAL President and COO Captain Stanley K. Ng emphasized the airline’s commitment to expanding its footprint in Vietnam, “We are pleased to expand Philippine Airlines’ footprint in Vietnam, our next-door neighbor and fellow ASEAN member country, through our new service linking Ho Chi Minh City to Cebu for the very first time. We look forward to boosting tourism, strengthening Cebu’s position as the nation’s emerging business and leisure gateway, and building on the strong and friendly relations between Vietnam and the Philippines. We are excited to invite Vietnamese tourists and business people to take the short hop to Cebu to discover the wonders of our islands and enjoy the warm hospitality of our people.”
He added that the airline aims to attract Vietnamese tourists and business travelers to Cebu, showcasing the island’s scenic landscapes, world-class resorts, and warm Filipino hospitality.
Flight Schedule and Aircraft Details
The new Cebu-Ho Chi Minh City flights will depart from Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA) at 2255H PhST (GMT+8), arriving in Ho Chi Minh City at 0055H GMT+7. The return flights from Tan Son Nhat International Airport will operate on Mondays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, departing at 0155H GMT+7 and arriving in Cebu at 0605H PhST (GMT+8).
PAL will deploy its Airbus A321 for the route, offering both Business Class and Economy Class seats.
Strengthening Tourism and Trade
Ho Chi Minh City, known for its vibrant markets, historical landmarks, and street food culture, is a prime destination for Filipino travelers. Meanwhile, Cebu’s beaches, diving spots, and historical sites attract a growing number of Vietnamese tourists, with 58,000 visiting in 2024.
PAL’s new route provides seamless connectivity for Vietnamese travelers, allowing easy access to the airline’s Cebu-Osaka and Cebu-Tokyo Narita flights, further positioning Mactan-Cebu as a key transit hub.
With the expanded Manila-Hanoi service and the introduction of the Cebu-Saigon route, PAL now operates a total of eight weekly flights between the Philippines and Vietnam, reinforcing its role in regional connectivity and economic exchange.
For bookings and inquiries, passengers can visit www.philippineairlines.com, call (+632) 8855-8888, or contact PAL ticketing offices and travel agents.