Russian airline IrAero is set to launch a new weekly flight route connecting Khabarovsk (KHV), Russia, to Kalibo (KLO), Philippines, starting 28 October 2025. This service aims to enhance travel options for Russian tourists seeking to visit Boracay, a renowned tropical destination in the Philippines.
The new route, designated as flight IO2177, will operate every Tuesday, departing Khabarovsk at 0640H local time. The flight will make technical stops in Blagoveshchensk (BQS), Russia, and Ningbo (NGB), China, before arriving in Kalibo at 1315H. The return flight, IO2178, will depart Kalibo at 1440H, with stops in Ningbo (NGB) and Blagoveshchensk (BQS), arriving back in Khabarovsk at 0130H the following day, according to AeroRoutes.com.
IrAero will operate the route using Sukhoi Superjet 100 (SSJ100) aircraft, which have a seating capacity of approximately 100 passengers. These regional jets are well-suited for medium-range international flights and are part of IrAero’s fleet strategy, especially amid Western sanctions that have affected the availability of Western-made aircraft.
The introduction of this route aligns with IrAero’s broader strategy to expand its international network and cater to the growing demand for leisure travel to the Philippines. Kalibo serves as a primary gateway to Boracay, attracting tourists with its pristine beaches and vibrant tourism industry. By offering direct flights from Russia’s Far East, IrAero aims to provide convenient travel options for Russian nationals and potentially neighboring countries without the need for lengthy layovers or multiple connections.
The timing of the launch, coinciding with the Northern Hemisphere’s winter season, is strategic, as it capitalizes on the peak travel period when many Russian tourists seek warmer destinations. The direct connection to Kalibo is expected to stimulate tourism flows between Russia and the Philippines, benefiting both nations’ economies and fostering closer cultural and business ties.