Vietnam Partners with USA, Japan, and Others as Philippine Airlines Launches New Non-Stop Flights to Saipan, Da Nang, Seattle, and Sapporo in 2025 and 2026

By:
Paramita Sarkar

Philippine Airlines (PAL) is embarking on a significant expansion of its route network, set to introduce new non-stop international and domestic services that will connect the Philippines with essential destinations in the United States, Vietnam, Japan, and the Northern Mariana Islands. This exciting initiative, slated for 2025 and 2026, enhances travel options for passengers heading to these popular regions.

What Are the New Routes?

The new non-stop routes are tailored to meet the growing demand for direct international and regional travel. Here’s a detailed look at the new service offerings:

International Non-Stop Routes:

1. Manila – Saipan (Northern Mariana Islands): Commencing in March 2026, this route will offer twice-weekly flights, marking Saipan as PAL’s seventh U.S. destination and providing easier access to the Northern Mariana Islands.
2. Manila – Da Nang (Vietnam): Non-stop flights were initiated on July 1, 2025, operating three times a week, connecting Manila with the scenic coastal city of Da Nang, famed for its beaches and cultural attractions.
3. Cebu – Ho Chi Minh City (Vietnam): Launched on May 2, 2025, this route establishes the first-ever non-stop connection between the Visayas region and southern Vietnam, fostering tourism and business relations.
4. Manila – Seattle (USA): Expansion of this route began on November 25, 2025, increasing its frequency to five flights per week to cater to rising demand between the Philippines and the U.S. Pacific Northwest.
5. Manila – Sapporo (Japan): Seasonal non-stop service resumed on November 24, 2025, with flights operating until March 27, 2026, aimed at winter travelers seeking the ski resorts and hot springs of Hokkaido.

Domestic Non-Stop Routes:

1. Clark – Siargao & Clark – Basco: These popular routes were upgraded to daily non-stop services on May 1, 2025, providing greater convenience for travelers from Central Luzon to these beautiful destinations.
2. Cebu – Borongan: Added flight frequencies launched in September 2025 to accommodate heightened regional travel demand, particularly during peak festival seasons, thus bolstering connectivity.

When Will These Routes Begin?

Several of PAL’s new non-stop services have already begun or are set to launch shortly. For instance, the Cebu–Ho Chi Minh City route began operations in May 2025, while Manila–Da Nang flights started in July 2025. The Clark–Siargao and Clark–Basco routes transitioned to daily non-stop services from May 1, 2025. The Manila–Seattle route expanded in frequency starting November 2025, and the Manila–Saipan service is expected to kick off in March 2026.

Where Are These Routes Serving?

The international routes primarily benefit travelers between the Philippines and destinations across Vietnam, Japan, the Northern Mariana Islands, and the United States. The new Saipan route bolsters PAL’s U.S. service, facilitating travel connections to the Pacific. Da Nang and Ho Chi Minh City serve as direct gateways to major Vietnamese cities, while Sapporo caters to those interested in winter sports. The Seattle route efficiently connects with the growing Filipino-American demographic in the Pacific Northwest.

Domestically, routes such as Clark–Siargao and Clark–Basco offer easy access to popular tourist destinations, while the Cebu–Borongan route enhances regional connectivity, especially during vibrant festival seasons.

How Is PAL Supporting These Expansions?

To support the launch of these new routes, Philippine Airlines has enhanced its fleet, including the addition of its first Airbus A350-1000 on December 20, 2025. This aircraft is specifically designed for long-haul operations and will play a crucial role in servicing significant routes like Seattle and other transpacific destinations. The inclusion of the A350-1000 aligns with PAL’s strategic fleet expansion plan, which aims to accommodate increased demand for non-stop flights, particularly to long-distance destinations.

Why Is This Expansion Important?

This route expansion is vital for PAL as it seeks to meet the heightened demand for both international and domestic travel post-pandemic. With travel restrictions easing and global tourism rebounding, Philippine Airlines aims to offer enhanced non-stop options that streamline travel time and increase convenience for passengers. The new routes are a testament to PAL’s commitment to improving the Philippines’ connectivity to key markets worldwide while promoting regional tourism growth.

A New Era of Travel with Philippine Airlines

The expanded aviation network laid out by Philippine Airlines for 2025 and 2026 signals a pivotal new phase in connecting the Philippines to the global community. With the introduction of new non-stop flights to destinations like Saipan, Da Nang, Seattle, and Sapporo, PAL enhances travelers’ options for direct and efficient journeys. The investment in advanced aircraft such as the Airbus A350-1000 further strengthens PAL’s long-haul capabilities, positioning the airline for significant future growth. Whether for business, leisure, or connecting with loved ones, Philippine Airlines is making international exploration more accessible than ever.