Philippine Airlines to Launch Direct Flights from Manila to Sapporo
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Philippine Airlines (PAL) has announced the launch of direct flights from Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL) in Manila to New Chitose Airport (CTS) in Sapporo, Japan, expanding its network to meet growing demand for travel between the Philippines and Japan’s northernmost island, Hokkaido. The new service is set to commence on September 10, 2025, offering travelers a seamless connection to one of Japan’s most scenic destinations.
Route Details and Flight Schedule
The new Manila (MNL) – Sapporo (CTS) route will initially operate three times per week, with plans to increase frequency based on market demand. PAL will deploy its Airbus A321neo for the route, ensuring a comfortable and efficient travel experience.
Key flight details:
- Departure from MNL: 07:30 local time
- Arrival at CTS: 13:30 local time
- Return from CTS: 15:00 local time
- Arrival at MNL: 19:30 local time
This marks PAL’s first-ever direct flight to Sapporo, eliminating the need for layovers in Tokyo, Osaka, or other connecting cities, significantly reducing travel time for Filipino travelers heading to Japan’s winter wonderland.
Strategic Expansion and Market Demand
Sapporo is a key destination for Filipino tourists, particularly during the winter season, when travelers seek its famous ski resorts, hot springs, and the annual Sapporo Snow Festival. With increasing interest in Hokkaido’s natural attractions and cuisine, Philippine Airlines aims to tap into the growing market of outbound Filipino travelers as well as inbound Japanese tourists.
PAL’s expansion aligns with its broader strategy of strengthening its presence in Japan, where it already operates flights to Tokyo Narita (NRT), Tokyo Haneda (HND), Osaka (KIX), Fukuoka (FUK), and Nagoya (NGO). This new route also caters to Japan’s overseas Filipino worker (OFW) population, offering them a more direct way to visit family in the Philippines.
Competitive Landscape and Industry Impact
With PAL’s new direct flights, the Manila-Sapporo market gains an alternative to connecting flights operated by carriers like Japan Airlines, ANA, and Cathay Pacific. This move is expected to:
- Increase competition on the Japan-Philippines route, potentially leading to lower fares
- Boost tourism exchange between the two countries
- Strengthen trade and business ties, particularly in agriculture and seafood exports from Hokkaido
Bottom Line
The launch of Philippine Airlines’ direct flights from Manila to Sapporo provides travelers with a convenient, non-stop option to Japan’s northern capital, reinforcing PAL’s commitment to expanding its international network. With competitive pricing, reduced travel time, and increased frequency potential, this new service is poised to become a popular route for Filipino and Japanese travelers alike.
As PAL continues to modernize its fleet and grow its international footprint, the airline is well-positioned to enhance connectivity between Southeast Asia and key global destinations, making travel more accessible and efficient for its customers.
