Three new direct flights between the Philippines and China are set to strengthen air connectivity and accelerate the recovery of the country’s tourism sector, the Department of Tourism (DOT) said.
This May, airlines launched new nonstop routes linking Manila to the Chinese cities of Changsha, Chongqing, and Hangzhou, expanding travel options for tourists and business travelers alike.
Qingdao Airlines inaugurated its Changsha–Manila service on May 16, operating every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday until Oct. 24, 2026.
XiamenAir followed with the launch of its Chongqing–Manila flights on May 21, flying every Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday, while its Hangzhou–Manila route began on May 20 with four weekly flights scheduled through Oct. 31, 2026.
Tourism Secretary Dita Angara-Mathay said the additional routes underscore government efforts to rebuild connectivity with China, one of the Philippines’ key tourism markets.
She noted that although arrivals from China have posted strong growth this year, available air seat capacity has recovered to only about half of 2019 pre-pandemic levels.
The DOT also said the Chongqing service became the 33rd direct international route launched to the Philippines since the start of 2025.
