Philippine Airlines Connects Manila and Da Nang with New Direct Flights to Boost Regional Travel and Economic Cooperation
Philippine Airlines (PAL), the national carrier of the Philippines, has officially inaugurated direct flights between Manila and Da Nang, Vietnam, marking a significant step toward enhanced regional connectivity and economic collaboration in Southeast Asia. With services launched in July 2025, this new route reflects PAL’s strategic expansion in response to growing travel demand and evolving tourism trends across the ASEAN region.
The Manila–Da Nang flights now operate three times weekly on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. Due to promising early demand, the airline has already announced plans to add a fourth weekly flight beginning in November 2025. This addition comes as PAL reinforces its commitment to deepening bilateral tourism and trade ties with Vietnam, while offering Filipino and Vietnamese travelers more efficient access to one of Southeast Asia’s emerging coastal gems.
Modern Aircraft and Enhanced Comfort
The Manila–Da Nang route is served by Philippine Airlines’ Airbus A321 aircraft, offering a well-balanced configuration of 199 seats, including 12 in premium business class. The aircraft’s efficient performance and onboard comfort make it well-suited for short-haul international operations, allowing passengers to enjoy a seamless travel experience.
As part of the inaugural celebrations, a welcoming ceremony was held at Da Nang International Airport in collaboration with the Vietnam Airport Ground Services Joint Stock Company. Flight PR586, the first inbound service from Da Nang to Manila, departed at 13:35 local time and received a warm reception, with passengers greeted with commemorative gifts to mark the historic launch.
Strengthening Bilateral Tourism Ties
This route is more than a logistical convenience—it is a diplomatic and economic bridge between two rapidly growing tourism markets. Da Nang, situated along Vietnam’s central coast, is renowned for its golden beaches, vibrant cityscape, and access to UNESCO World Heritage sites like Hoi An and the ancient capital of Hue. With its growing popularity among international tourists, the city is eager to attract visitors from the Philippines and other ASEAN markets.
The Department of Tourism of the Philippines and the Da Nang Tourism Promotion Center have both expressed enthusiasm about the new connection. They emphasize its role in fostering not only visitor traffic but also cultural exchange and tourism development initiatives across the region. In particular, the new route aligns with Da Nang’s broader strategy to attract regional travelers and promote itself as a year-round destination offering eco-tourism, adventure sports, and heritage exploration.
Economic and Trade Opportunities on the Rise
Beyond tourism, the direct link is expected to catalyze business travel and commercial ties between Vietnam and the Philippines. The increased ease of travel between Manila and Da Nang opens up new avenues for trade, investment, and cooperation in technology, education, and logistics. The route also supports the ASEAN framework for integrated regional development, facilitating smoother people-to-people and business-to-business connections.
With the addition of this service, weekly flight frequency between the two countries rises to 12, a notable milestone that underlines the importance of air access in bilateral relations. The Philippines–Vietnam relationship continues to grow stronger, driven by shared interests in regional stability, tourism growth, and mutual economic upliftment.
PAL’s Southeast Asia Growth Strategy
This latest launch is part of PAL’s ongoing efforts to expand its footprint within Southeast Asia, which remains one of the fastest-recovering travel markets post-pandemic. The airline has been actively restoring and launching new routes to capitalize on resurgent travel demand and reposition itself as a premier gateway airline for the Philippines and the broader ASEAN region.
According to Stanley Ng, President and COO of Philippine Airlines, the airline sees Da Nang as a “strategic addition” to its network. “We are proud to connect two dynamic cities with strong tourism and trade potential. Our new Manila–Da Nang route offers travelers a convenient and comfortable option to explore Vietnam’s central region while opening more doors for economic and cultural exchange.”
Da Nang’s Broader Vision for Tourism Growth
On the Vietnamese side, Da Nang authorities are investing heavily in tourism infrastructure and promotional campaigns targeting the Philippines, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore. Their 2025 tourism action plan highlights new air links as a critical pillar for international market growth, particularly from short-haul Southeast Asian source markets.
To support this growth, Da Nang continues to expand its hospitality offerings with luxury resorts, eco-lodges, and business-friendly accommodation options. The city’s diverse appeal—from Marble Mountain hikes to My Khe Beach relaxation—makes it a versatile destination for all types of travelers.
Outlook for 2025 and Beyond
As Philippine Airlines prepares to increase its frequency on the Manila–Da Nang route to four weekly flights later this year, expectations remain high for further expansion and stronger partnerships. Both the Philippine and Vietnamese tourism boards are already in discussions to co-host tourism trade events, culinary exchanges, and business forums to strengthen bilateral cooperation.
This direct air link is emblematic of the new era of regional travel—faster, more accessible, and driven by shared goals. As both countries aim to rebuild and expand their tourism sectors post-pandemic, the Manila–Da Nang route offers a symbol of renewed collaboration and confidence in Southeast Asia’s connected future.
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