Delta Air Lines has announced a new nonstop service connecting Los Angeles and Manila, set to commence in March 2027, with plans to expand to daily flights by June. This development has been warmly welcomed by the Department of Tourism (DOT) in the Philippines, which sees the move as a significant boost for both tourism and the economy.

Tourism Secretary Dita Angara-Mathay highlighted the benefits of increased competition in the aviation sector, stating, "More flights and more choices are good for travellers. Greater competition can help make air travel more accessible and affordable for Filipinos." She emphasised the DOT's goal to expand the overall market, benefiting travellers, airlines, airports, and tourism enterprises alike.

The United States remains the Philippines' leading source market, with 707,394 visitor arrivals recorded as of 18 July 2026, according to E-travel data. Delta's new route will make it the only US carrier offering nonstop flights between Los Angeles and Manila, facilitating easier homecomings for overseas Filipino workers and the Filipino-American community. It also opens a new gateway for American tourists to explore the Philippines.

"For many Filipino-Americans, coming to the Philippines is more than a vacation. It is a journey home," Angara-Mathay noted. The DOT is committed to working with both international and Philippine carriers to enhance connectivity and make travel more seamless.

In addition to the new flights, the DOT is curating travel experiences for balikbayans and second- and third-generation Filipino-Americans, aiming to help them reconnect with their heritage. The department looks forward to collaborating with airline partners to further expand access to the Philippines

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