XiamenAir launches Manila-Hangzhou direct flights

CHINA’S Xiamen Airlines has launched direct flights between Manila and Hangzhou amid its push to boost air connectivity between the Philippines and China, the Department of Tourism (DoT) said.

The route will operate four times weekly — every Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday — until Oct. 31, the DoT said in a statement on Wednesday.

“The route connects Manila to one of China’s leading centers for innovation and technology and is expected to support not only tourism exchanges but also business and investment opportunities,” the DoT said.

XiamenAir also recently launched its Chongqing-Manila flights, which will operate every Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday until Oct. 31.

This was followed by the launch of Qingdao Airlines’ inaugural Changsha-Manila flights on May 21. The route will run every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday until Oct. 24.

This route is expected to provide Filipinos with greater access to Changsha, the capital of Hunan Province, which is known for its history, cultural attractions, and cuisine.

Tourism Secretary Dita Angara-Mathay said the Philippines’ new direct flights to China, a major tourism market, would help expand opportunities for tourism growth.

“We are accelerating the restoration of air connectivity from China because we recognize that this market remains one of the Philippines’ biggest opportunities for tourism growth,” she said.

China remains among the Philippines’ leading source markets in 2025, accounting for 4.56% of total visitor arrivals.

The Philippines has also launched new and resumed routes from Manila and Cebu with destinations including San Francisco, Seattle, Vancouver, and Paris, the DoT said.

In the first five months of the year, the Philippines recorded 30,729 international flight arrivals, up 4.71% from the same period in 2025, the DoT said.

The Philippines also recorded 7.78 million international air seats for direct inbound flights, 8.31% higher than last year. — Beatriz Marie D. Cruz