Visiting the Philippines offers an incredible mix of adventure, relaxation, and culture — from island hopping in Palawan to exploring historical sites in Manila. But before you can start enjoying white sand beaches and delicious Filipino cuisine, you need to pick the right airline to get there. Selecting a quality airline can make your journey smoother and more comfortable, especially on long-haul routes. Below is a curated list of the Best Airlines to Fly to the Philippines, highlighting the best in service, connectivity, and value.
1. Philippine Airlines (PAL)
As the country’s primary flag carrier, Philippine Airlines (PAL) offers one of the most convenient ways to reach the Philippines. It operates direct flights from major cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, New York, London, Vancouver, and Sydney straight to Manila. What makes PAL a favorite among travelers is its emphasis on Filipino hospitality. Expect hot meals, free entertainment, and generous luggage policies in Economy, while Business Class offers lie-flat beds and lounge access. PAL’s wide domestic network also makes it easy to book seamless connections to popular islands and provinces.
2. Singapore Airlines
If you're after a high-end flying experience, Singapore Airlines is a top-tier choice. While flights connect through Singapore’s Changi Airport, known for being one of the world’s best airports, the transfer experience is effortless. Singapore Airlines consistently earns praise for its outstanding customer service, spacious seats, and gourmet onboard meals. Whether you’re flying Economy, Premium Economy, or Business Class, you'll enjoy excellent comfort and attention to detail. The airline services Manila and Cebu regularly, offering smooth access to the Philippines.
3. Qatar Airways
Known for luxury and long-haul expertise, Qatar Airways is a standout option for travelers coming from Europe, the Middle East, and beyond. The airline flies into both Manila and Clark, with easy connections via its hub in Doha. Qatar’s Business Class, particularly the Qsuite, is among the most private and comfortable in the industry. Economy travelers also benefit from quality service, comfortable seats, and tasty meals. Its high safety standards and professional service make it a reliable choice for flying to the Philippines.
4. Emirates
Emirates, based in Dubai, connects travelers from North America, Europe, and the Middle East to the Philippines with flights to Manila, Cebu, and Clark. Known for its luxurious touches and world-class in-flight entertainment, Emirates ensures your trip starts in style. Passengers in all classes benefit from generous legroom, multilingual staff, and a vast selection of movies and shows. Business and First Class travelers can enjoy lie-flat seats, fine dining, and even onboard showers on select aircraft.
5. Cathay Pacific
For those connecting through East Asia, Cathay Pacific is a smart and dependable option. This Hong Kong-based airline operates frequent flights to Manila and Cebu, offering efficient transit through Hong Kong International Airport. Cathay Pacific is known for its modern fleet, punctuality, and calm atmosphere onboard. Both Economy and Business passengers can expect well-balanced meals and comfortable seating. The airline also offers premium travel perks such as priority boarding and exclusive lounge access for higher-tier fares.
6. EVA Air
EVA Air, based in Taiwan, is another high-quality airline offering routes to the Philippines via Taipei. It flies to several Philippine cities, including Manila and Cebu, and provides strong connections for travelers from North America and Asia. The airline’s Premium Economy cabin is particularly praised for its comfort on long flights. Clean cabins, polite service, and consistent reliability make EVA Air a solid choice, especially for travelers who want comfort without an extremely high price tag.
7. Korean Air
Korean Air connects passengers from the U.S., Canada, and Europe to the Philippines via Seoul Incheon Airport, which is well-known for its modern amenities and efficient layout. With flights to Manila and Cebu, the airline is known for its clean cabins, friendly flight attendants, and smooth service. Korean Air also offers a great Business Class product with lie-flat seats and fine Korean cuisine, making it a pleasant option for long-distance travelers.
8. Japan Airlines (JAL)
Japan Airlines is well-regarded for its punctuality and elegant service. Travelers from the U.S., Canada, and Australia can connect to the Philippines via Tokyo, with flights heading to Manila and Cebu. JAL’s Sky Suite Business Class provides a private and restful experience, while Economy offers wider-than-average seats and tasty Japanese meals. The airline is a great choice for those who appreciate efficiency and refined service throughout their journey.
9. Cebu Pacific
For travelers prioritizing budget over luxury, Cebu Pacific is a leading low-cost airline based in the Philippines. It offers international flights from Dubai, Singapore, Tokyo, and Seoul, along with an extensive domestic network covering nearly every major island. While the basic fare is low, services like baggage, meals, and seat selection are charged separately. The airline often runs promotions, making it ideal for flexible and cost-conscious travelers.
10. AirAsia Philippines
AirAsia, another budget carrier, serves Manila, Cebu, Davao, and other key destinations in the Philippines. It connects these cities to Southeast Asian hubs like Kuala Lumpur, Bangkok, and Jakarta. This airline is ideal for travelers planning regional trips or hopping between nearby countries. Though it's a no-frills experience, AirAsia offers good value for short-haul routes and is reliable for getting around the archipelago affordably.
Final Thoughts
Flying to the Philippines in 2025 offers more options than ever, with a mix of premium carriers and low-cost airlines to suit all types of travelers. Whether you're seeking five-star luxury, convenient connections, or affordable fares, the top 10 airlines to fly to the Philippines listed above will help get your trip off to the perfect start. From Philippine Airlines’ local charm to Singapore Airlines’ unmatched elegance, you’re sure to find an airline that fits your budget and travel style.
