Cebu Pacific further cements its leadership in the Philippines-Japan air travel market with the launch of direct flights between Manila and Sapporo, making it the only carrier offering non-stop service between the two cities.
The new route, which commenced on 16 January, is Cebu Pacific’s fifth destination in Japan, expanding its extensive international network and providing greater access for Filipinos to explore the country. With thrice-weekly flights on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, the airline continues its strategy of making international travel both accessible and affordable with its signature low fares and frequent seat sales.
“Sapporo is a gem in Japan’s tourism landscape, renowned for its winter magic, stunning natural parks, and rich cultural heritage. We are excited to bring Sapporo much closer to our Filipino travelers in our commitment to make air travel even more accessible and affordable for every Juan,” said Xander Lao, Cebu Pacific president and chief commercial officer.
The addition of Sapporo to Cebu Pacific’s route network enhances its strong foothold in Japan, where it already serves Tokyo (Narita), Osaka, Nagoya, and Fukuoka from various points in the Philippines, including Manila, Clark, and Cebu. The new direct service not only reduces travel time by up to five hours but also offers passengers the potential for savings of up to 63% on airfare compared to alternative routes with layovers.
Ambassador Kazuya Endo of Japan highlighted the importance of enhancing tourism between the two nations, noting that both governments are actively collaborating to foster deeper cultural exchanges. He encouraged Filipinos to explore Hokkaido and experience the region’s diverse offerings.
Cebu Pacific continues to play a pivotal role in boosting tourism between the Philippines and key international destinations. The airline operates in 37 domestic and 26 international destinations across Asia, Australia, and the Middle East, solidifying its position as a key player in the global aviation market.
The introduction of the Manila-Sapporo route is expected to drive even greater commercial success for Cebu Pacific, as it taps into the growing demand for both leisure and business travel to Japan.
