India’s InterGlobe Enterprises is seeking to open direct air links between Delhi and Mumbai and key Philippine gateways, potentially giving trade, tourism, and cargo flows between the two economies a significant boost.
InterGlobe, the parent of India’s largest airline IndiGo, has filed an application with the Philippine Civil Aeronautics Board (CAB) to launch direct services, according to the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).
The initial routes being evaluated include Mumbai-Manila, followed by Mumbai-Cebu and Delhi-Cebu services.
The proposed links would connect Manila and Cebu to IndiGo’s extensive domestic network in India as well as its Middle East routes, giving Philippine airports access to a larger pool of Indian passengers and potential business and cargo traffic.
“Direct air connectivity between India and the Philippines is an essential bridge to increase trade, investment, and tourism opportunities,” Trade Secretary Cristina Roque said after meeting InterGlobe executives in New Delhi on Sept. 12.
“Expanding direct flights and establishing air links expands our capacity for growth, connects key economic hubs, and opens up new opportunities for both our business sectors and citizens,” she added.
The DTI said it would help InterGlobe navigate regulatory requirements, airport slot allocations, inter-agency coordination, and investment facilitation as the airline group evaluates the proposed services.
The agency also offered to facilitate talks with Philippine Airlines and Cebu Pacific on potential general sales agency representation, codeshare, and interline arrangements.
InterGlobe and the DTI discussed potential investments and partnerships beyond aviation, including artificial intelligence, logistics, pilot training, and hospitality.
The talks suggest the group is assessing a broader Philippine business footprint, with direct flights potentially serving as an entry point for deeper commercial ties.
The additional India connectivity could also help the Philippines diversify international air links while supporting efforts to attract more Indian tourists, investors, technology companies, and cargo operators.
