10 BEST Airlines to Fly to Manila in 2025 (Ultimate Guide)

295

Planning a trip to Manila? From bustling markets and historic sites to vibrant nightlife and a gateway to the Philippines’ stunning islands, Manila is a city full of energy and excitement. Having flown to Manila three times, I know that choosing the right airline can make all the difference in comfort and cost on this long-haul journey.

For this ultimate guide, I analyzed flights from 150 major airports around the world, focusing on routes from the US, Canada, and Europe, to bring you the 10 best airlines to fly to Manila in 2025. With Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL) as your arrival point, these airlines offer great options for a smooth, affordable, and enjoyable flight experience. Here’s everything you need to know to kick off your Manila adventure in style!

Quick tip to find cheap flights to Manila

Looking for cheap flights to Manila right now? Before diving into all the airlines that fly to Manila, I first want to share a quick tip on how to save money on airfare.

For the past three years, I’ve used Scott’s Cheap Flights (now called Going) to get amazing flight deals. All you have to do is enter your home airport and where you want to go, and from there, they’ll send you mistake fares and other ridiculously cheap flight deals. And the coolest part? It’s 100% FREE! In 2024, I’ve saved thousands of dollars from their email alerts. This includes most recently, a $767 roundtrip fare from NYC to Manila.

There’s a free and a premium version – the free one has pretty much everything you’ll need. Though if you’re like me and travel a lot every year, it’s worth upgrading to the paid version for $49 per year. In my experience, you’ll get your money back after finding just one discounted flight! As such, I recommend signing up for the free trial (you can cancel at any time) to try it for yourself. And if you like it, be sure to use my coupon code JON20 to save 20%!

Now without further ado, here are the best Manila flights in 2025.

1. 🇵🇭 Philippine Airlines

• 🏠 Hub: Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business Class, First Class (on select aircraft)
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Mabuhay Miles – part of oneworld connect
• ☕ Perks: Filipino-inspired meals, spacious cabins, priority boarding, Mabuhay Lounge access
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Book flights during quarterly promotions or PAL’s anniversary sale in March for discounts up to 50% off

Philippine Airlines is not just the flag carrier of the Philippines, but it’s also Asia’s first airline and one of the oldest airlines still operating under its original name. PAL offers a wide range of direct flights to Manila (MNL) from major international hubs like Los Angeles (LAX), San Francisco (SFO), New York (JFK), Toronto (YYZ), and London (LHR), and more through their modern aircraft like the Airbus A350-900, Boeing 777-300ER, and A330-300.

If you’re flying Premium Economy, expect a real step up: wider seats with generous legroom, enhanced dining options, and priority check-in. PAL’s Business Class also now features the sleek Thompson Vantage XL seats on long-haul routes with fully-flat beds, direct aisle access, and premium bedding. First Class? Though limited to specific routes, think ultra-private experience with personalized service and exclusive dining.

Philippine Airlines is known for adding a Filipino touch to the in-flight experience. Think authentic Filipino cuisine alongside international options, warm hospitality from cabin crew, and even local beverages like calamansi juice. Baggage-wise, economy passengers can check two free bags on transpacific flights.

The airline’s Mabuhay Miles loyalty program is especially rewarding for frequent travelers to the Philippines. You can use miles for award flights, upgrades, and excess baggage. Booking with Mabuhay Miles during their Travel Fiesta promos can unlock major savings (especially during low season).

• Read next: Best Airlines to Fly to New York

---

Looking to save BIG on airfare? I recommend signing up for Dollar Flight Club. Thanks to DFC, I’ve saved $5,000+ on travel in 2024…so I couldn’t recommend it more!

---

2. 🇵🇭 Cebu Pacific

• 🏠 Hub: Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL), Mactan-Cebu International Airport (CEB)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy (with optional add-ons)
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: GetGo Rewards
• ☕ Perks: Rock-bottom fares, fun in-flight games, friendly staff
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Cebu Pacific usually holds “Piso Fare” sales during Filipino holidays and special occasions like the airline’s very own anniversary.

Cebu Pacific is the Philippines’ favorite budget airline for good reason. While Philippine Airlines carries the flag with full service, Cebu Pacific wins travelers over with prices that sometimes seem too good to be true. They fly to Manila (MNL) from across Asia and offer the most extensive domestic network in the Philippines, using a young fleet of Airbus A320s and A330s.

Gone are the days of all-inclusive airfares. With Cebu Pacific, your ticket gets you a seat and a personal item. Checking a bag? That’ll cost you $20-25 for a standard 44-pound allowance. Hungry onboard? Tasty Filipino snacks between $3-7 are available onboard. Want to choose your seat? That’s gonna be $4-12 depending on location.

The real magic happens during Cebu Pacific’s legendary sales. Set calendar alerts for their “Piso Fare” events when they literally sell tickets starting at one peso (about 2 cents) plus taxes. Even with fees, you can snag round-trips to Manila for under $100 from nearby Asian cities.

Cebu Pacific brings fun in their budget travel. Up in the air, flight attendants run trivia games and small competitions during longer flights, giving away merchandise and snacks to winners. The bright yellow-and-blue planes and cheerful staff create a vacation vibe from the moment you board.

GetGo Rewards program isn’t as robust as legacy carriers, but points are surprisingly easy to earn through partner credit cards and shopping. Smart travelers bank points all year then redeem during low season for the best value. 

• Read next: Most Beautiful Places in the Philippines

3. 🇲🇾 AirAsia

• 🏠 Hub: Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL), Manila NAIA Terminal 4 (MNL)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Flatbed (on select A330 routes)
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: BIG Rewards – earn points on flights, hotels, and shopping
• ☕ Perks: Consistently low fares, extensive Asian network, hot meals available for pre-order
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Join the AirAsia Unlimited Pass promotions when available – pay one fixed price for unlimited flights within a set period

AirAsia has revolutionized air travel in Southeast Asia with its “Now Everyone Can Fly” mantra. This Malaysian low-cost giant offers some of the most competitive fares to Manila (MNL) from across Asia, with particularly strong connections through their Kuala Lumpur hub. They operate a streamlined fleet of Airbus A320 family aircraft for short-haul and A330s for longer routes.

With AirAsia, what you see is what you get. No hidden surprises as the base fares are stripped down to the essentials, letting you customize your journey. Want a meal? Pre-order from their “Santan” menu featuring Asian favorites for $4-8 and save compared to onboard prices. Checking luggage? Add 44 pounds for around $18-30 depending on route when booked online.

AirAsia’s Premium Flatbed option on selected long-haul AirAsia X routes deserves special mention. For often less than competitors’ Economy prices, you’ll get a fully reclining seat, priority boarding, complimentary meals, and extra baggage allowance. It’s one of aviation’s best-kept secrets for comfort on a budget.

For frequent flyers, The BIG Rewards program offers decent value, particularly when redeeming points during their periodic “BIG Sale” events when redemption rates improve dramatically. Plus, co-branded credit cards provide accelerated earning, making aspirational redemptions achievable faster than you might expect from a budget carrier.

• Read next: Magical Southeast Asia Destinations

4. 🇦🇪 Emirates

• 🏠 Hub: Dubai International Airport (DXB)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business, First
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Emirates Skywards – partners with flydubai, Qantas, and others
• ☕ Perks: Exceptional inflight entertainment, complimentary chauffeur service (premium cabins), generous baggage allowance
• 🧠 Pro Tip: If you’re flying Economy, choose seats in the front rows of the A380’s lower deck. These seats tend to disembark earlier in Manila, helping you beat the long immigration lines.

Emirates brings Middle Eastern luxury to the Manila route, offering a premium experience at every level. This global powerhouse operates flights to Manila (MNL) from their spectacular Dubai hub, connecting travelers from across Europe, Africa, and the Americas. Their fleet features the iconic double-decker Airbus A380 and efficient Boeing 777s, both offering their signature gold-accented elegance.

Even in Economy Class, Emirates stands out with thoughtful touches like 13-inch seatback screens loaded with 5,000+ entertainment channels, complimentary multi-course meals with regional specialties, and amenity kits on long-haul flights. They also have the newest Premium Economy, offering wider seats with extra legroom, dedicated service, and enhanced dining.

For those willing to splurge, Business Class delivers fully-flat beds, direct aisle access, an onboard lounge on A380 aircraft, and gourmet dining with premium beverages. The truly extravagant can experience First Class with private suites, shower spas (on A380s), fine dining on demand, and Dom Pérignon champagne.

Emirates is famous for their attention to detail – from their globally recruited multilingual cabin crew to little touches like fresh flowers in the premium bathrooms. Their complimentary chauffeur service for Business and First passengers (in select cities) extends the luxury experience beyond the aircraft. For points collectors, the Skywards loyalty program has solid value, especially for frequent travelers. These points can be used for upgrades, which often provide the best redemption value. 

• Read next: Picture-Perfect Places in Dubai
• You may also like: Affordable Places to Fly to in Asia

5. 🇶🇦 Qatar Airways

• 🏠 Hub: Hamad International Airport (DOH)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business (Qsuite), First (select routes)
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Privilege Club – part of oneworld alliance
• ☕ Perks: Award-winning service, spacious economy seating, generous baggage allowance
• 🧠 Pro Tip: The “Business Lite” fares offer the full Qsuite experience for 20-30% less. You only sacrifice lounge access and flexibility, which you can add à la carte if needed

Flying to Manila with Qatar Airways is a lesson in how travel can still feel luxurious, even in Economy. Seats are wider than average, meals reflect global flavors with local flair, and passengers receive amenity kits on long-haul flights. A generous 50-pound checked baggage allowance is included in all Economy fares, making the journey easier for those traveling with gifts or family essentials.

For those looking to upgrade, Qsuite Business Class is where Qatar really shines. These private, lie-flat suites come with sliding doors, plush bedding, and adjustable configurations that let couples or families create shared spaces. It’s widely considered the best business class in the sky and it lives up to the hype. The new Premium Economy cabin also bridges the gap well, offering wider seats, added legroom, and an elevated dining experience for a more relaxed trip.

Connections through Hamad International in Doha are smooth and efficient, with sleek architecture and some of the best airport amenities in the world. The Privilege Club loyalty program becomes more valuable at higher tiers, with perks like lounge access and extra baggage. For travelers who earn points through credit cards, periodic transfer bonuses make it even easier to score rewards. Want extra value? Look out for “Cash + Qmiles” offers, which stretch your balance further on expensive routes.

• Read next: Most Beautiful Places in Qatar

6. 🇸🇬 Singapore Airlines

• 🏠 Hub: Singapore Changi Airport (SIN)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business, First, Suites (A380)
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: KrisFlyer – part of Star Alliance
• ☕ Perks: World-class service, Book the Cook meal pre-ordering, Singapore Stopover packages
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Use the “Spontaneous Escapes” monthly promotions for 30% off award tickets to Manila. Book 2-3 weeks before travel, during non-peak periods.

Singapore Airlines sets the gold standard for service, and that quality extends to their Manila route. With multiple daily flights, this short-haul connection links seamlessly to their extensive long-haul network out of Changi, which is widely considered one of the world’s best airports.

Economy Class stands out for its comfort and consistency. Seats come with adjustable headrests, generous legroom, and HD touchscreens packed with content. Meals are a cut above the usual economy fare, and the crew’s hospitality feels warm and professional without being overbearing. Premium Economy also offers a notable upgrade, with wider seats, deeper recline, leg and calf rests, and a glass of champagne to start the journey. You’ll also get access to “Book the Cook,” allowing you to pre-select premium meals before departure.

Meanwhile, Business Class features lie-flat seats with direct aisle access, 78-inch bed lengths, and restaurant-style dining served course by course. For travelers flying in from long-haul routes, First and Suites Class add even more luxury: think caviar service, fine wines, and total privacy.

KrisFlyer offers solid value, particularly on Singapore-operated flights. The “Advantage” level awards provide more availability for a small premium over Saver awards. The airline also occasionally runs status match promotions, making it easy for frequent flyers from other programs to switch over and enjoy SIA’s perks.

• Read next: Most Beautiful Places in Singapore

7. 🇭🇰 Cathay Pacific

• 🏠 Hub: Hong Kong International Airport (HKG)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business, First
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Asia Miles – part of oneworld alliance
• ☕ Perks: Exceptional lounges in Hong Kong, refreshed cabin products, Betsy Beer
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Look for Cathay’s “Fanfares” Tuesday special deals for deep discounts, or use just 10,000 Asia Miles for one-way Economy redemptions to Manila during off-peak seasons

Cathay Pacific blends understated luxury with reliability, making it a favorite for travelers flying into Manila via Hong Kong. With multiple daily departures, they connect the Philippines to global cities across North America, Europe, and Australia through their well-run Hong Kong hub. Most Manila flights use the efficient Airbus A321neo, with the spacious Boeing 777-300ER added during peak seasons.

Economy passengers enjoy thoughtful comforts like 32-inch pitch seating, 11.6-inch HD screens, and flavorful meals that showcase Hong Kong cuisine. Meanwhile, Premium Economy offers a solid upgrade with wider seats, better recline, priority boarding, and upgraded dining, often at just $100-150 more than Economy on the short regional route.

What really sets Cathay apart is its calm, refined approach to service. Hospitality feels sincere without being over the top, and the in-flight experience is designed for comfort rather than flash. Frequent flyers rave about their lounges at HKG, especially The Pier, where you’ll find a made-to-order noodle bar, barista-pulled coffee, and spa-like shower suites.

Asia Miles delivers good value for regional redemptions, especially with flexible options like Cash + Miles. The “Cathay” membership tier adds practical perks like extra baggage and early boarding, even for non-elite travelers. Don’t forget to try Betsy Beer, crafted specifically for altitude, served in premium cabins for a uniquely local touch.

• Read next: Best Airlines to Fly to Asia

8. 🇦🇪 Etihad Airways

• 🏠 Hub: Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Economy Space, Business, First, Residence (A380)
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Etihad Guest – partners with Air Serbia, Air Seychelles
• ☕ Perks: Complimentary chauffeur service (premium cabins), Flying Nanny for families
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Bid for Etihad’s “Neighbor-Free” seats in Economy to block adjacent seats. A $50-100 bid often wins, creating a budget-friendly lie-flat setup for long flights.

Etihad Airways brings a calm, upscale sensibility to its Manila flights, offering seamless connections to Europe, the Middle East, and Africa through its impressive Abu Dhabi hub. Most flights are operated on Boeing 787 Dreamliners, featuring sleek, quiet cabins and Etihad’s latest design touches.

In the air, Etihad stands out for their genuine Arabian hospitality. Even Economy passengers enjoy spacious 32-inch pitch seating, cuisine inspired by Middle Eastern flavors, and an impressive entertainment system with live sports and global TV. Their unique Economy Space option also gives you an extra 4-6 inches of legroom without the full premium economy price, which is perfect for taller travelers on the 9-hour Abu Dhabi-Manila flight.

For families, Etihad offers a Flying Nanny service with specially trained crew members who assist with children during long flights. They also have a signature service including restaurant-style a la carte dining and a dedicated Food & Beverage Manager in premium cabins.

When it comes to loyalty program, the Etihad Guest miles are flexible and family-friendly, thanks to their Household Account system that lets up to eight members pool points. The program also partners with major banks, and limited-time transfer bonuses (often 20–30%) can make premium redemptions especially attractive.

• Read next: Magical Places in the UAE

9. 🇺🇸 United Airlines

• 🏠 Hub: San Francisco (SFO), Guam (GUM)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Economy Plus, Premium Plus, Polaris Business
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: MileagePlus – part of Star Alliance
• ☕ Perks: Extensive US connections, excellent Polaris lounges, modern fleet on Asian routes
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Fly United’s “Premium Service” routes from coastal hubs like San Francisco, then connect through Guam for a smoother trip and better aircraft.

United offers one of the most established routes from the U.S. to Manila, with daily service via San Francisco (SFO) and a lesser-known connection through Guam (GUM). Long-haul legs are typically operated by their newest Boeing 777-300ERs, featuring United’s latest cabin designs across all classes.

The real standout here is United’s Polaris Business experience. Think pod-like suites with 6-foot lie-flat beds, bedding from Saks Fifth Avenue, cooling gel pillows, and restaurant-style dining. Before takeoff, the exclusive Polaris lounges put airline clubs to shame with made-to-order meals, premium bars, and shower suites. Even if you’re in Economy, the newer aircraft offer larger overhead bins, better air quality, and power outlets at every seat.

Connecting through San Francisco? The airport’s been beautifully renovated with local California restaurants and efficient security. If adventure calls, try their Guam routing instead and you’ll fly on a smaller plane but gain bragging rights for visiting this unique US territory in the Western Pacific, with convenient onward service to Manila.

The MileagePlus program remains a favorite for practical travelers. Unlike some competitors with flashy promotions but limited seats, United consistently makes award space available, especially to loyal customers. The airline’s mobile app deserves special mention too as it sends real-time alerts about gate changes, lets you track your checked bags like a package, and even tells you when it’s your turn to board. 

• Read next: Hidden Gems in San Francisco
• You may also like: Best Airlines to Fly to the Philippines

10. 🇹🇼 EVA Air

• 🏠 Hub: Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport (TPE)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business (Royal Laurel)
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Infinity MileageLands – part of Star Alliance
• ☕ Perks: Spotlessly clean cabins, Hello Kitty themed flights, Taiwanese hospitality
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Choose Tuesday or Wednesday departures from Taipei to Manila. These midweek flights are often $50 to $100 cheaper than weekend options, and you’ll still enjoy the same great service.

EVA Air might be the best airline you’ve never flown. This Taiwanese gem consistently ranks among the world’s best carriers, bringing exceptional cleanliness and attention to detail to their daily Manila flights. Their newer Boeing 787 Dreamliners feature advanced air filtration, higher cabin humidity, and lower pressurization which means you’ll arrive feeling refreshed rather than dried out.

Step aboard and the difference is immediately clear: immaculate cabins (they’ve won awards for cleanliness), elegant cabin crew in distinctive green uniforms, and a sense of calm efficiency that pervades the entire operation. The food here deserves a special mention as even Economy meals feature high-quality ingredients with both Western and Asian options. Don’t miss EVA’s legendary milk tea!

For a special treat, book EVA Air’s Premium Economy cabin. It’s worlds beyond regular Economy with wide recliner seats, leg rests, upgraded dining with actual champagne, and attentive service. It typically costs just $150-200 more than Economy on the Taipei-Manila leg, a bargain for the massive comfort upgrade. They even have special Hello Kitty themed flights with custom meals, cute amenities, and even themed boarding passes.

EVA’s hub in Taipei offers swift transfers, while their Infinity MileageLands program makes it easier to reach Star Alliance Gold status compared to many competitors. This means more lounge access, priority services, and solid value for frequent travelers flying to and from Manila.

• Read next: Most Beautiful Places in Taiwan

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Best Airlines to Fly to Manila

If you’re still curious about what airlines fly to Manila, here are some common questions that might help you decide.

What is the best airline to fly to the Philippines?

Choosing the best airline to fly to the Philippines, one of the most beautiful places in Asia, largely depends on your departure point, budget, and personal preferences. Here are some top picks for various scenarios:

• From the U.S.: United Airlines offers direct routes from major hubs like San Francisco and Los Angeles.
• From the Middle East: Etihad and Qatar Airways provide luxurious options with potential layovers in Abu Dhabi or Doha.
• Budget-friendly: Cebu Pacific and AirAsia are popular choices for those looking to save.
• For luxury: Singapore Airlines and Cathay Pacific are renowned for their top-tier services.

Which airlines offer flights nonstop to Manila from the US?

Traveling nonstop from the U.S. to Manila is a breeze with these carriers:

• United Airlines: Operates from San Francisco and Los Angeles, ensuring coast-to-coast coverage.
• Philippine Airlines: Known for its warm hospitality, it has regular flights from Los Angeles, San Francisco, and occasionally New York.

What are the top 3 airlines in the Philippines?

The Philippine skies are dominated by these three carriers:

1. Philippine Airlines: As the nation’s flag carrier, it offers an expansive network, both domestically and internationally.
2. Cebu Pacific: Renowned for its affordable rates, it’s a top choice for island-hopping within the Philippines.
3. AirAsia Philippines: With competitive prices and a significant regional presence, it’s a go-to for many travelers.

What is the cheapest month to fly to Manila?

The months of January to March are often the most budget-friendly for Manila-bound flights. This period, post-holiday and before the summer rush, sees fewer tourists, leading to competitive airfares.

What is the safest airline in the Philippines?

Philippine Airlines holds a prestigious 7-star safety rating and has been incident-free for years. As such, it’s a top choice for safety-conscious travelers.

Is there a direct flight from the UK to the Philippines?

Absolutely! Philippine Airlines bridges the UK and the Philippines with its direct service from London Heathrow to Manila, eliminating the hassle of layovers.

What methods can I use to find cheap flights to Manila?

Securing the cheapest flights to Manila requires a blend of tactics:

• Flight comparison websites: Platforms like Skyscanner or Kayak aggregate deals.
• Fare alerts: Tools like Google Flights notify you of price drops.
• Off-peak travel: Flying during non-touristy months can yield savings.
• Early bookings: While last-minute deals are tempting, early birds often get the worm.
• Alternate airports: Explore flights to nearby airports like Clark or Cebu.
• Loyalty programs: Airlines reward frequent fliers with discounts and perks.
• Promotions: Regularly check airline websites for flash sales.
• Going (formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights): This service curates top flight deals.
• Round trips: Sometimes, return flights are more economical than one-way tickets.
• Flexible dates: Shifting your travel dates by a day or two can lead to significant savings

Concluding Comments on the Best Airlines to Fly to Manila

The allure of Manila, with its harmonious blend of past and present, is best experienced when the journey itself becomes a part of the adventure. Each airline, from the luxurious cabins of Emirates to the direct routes of United, offers a unique perspective, setting the tone for your Philippine escapade.

Harnessing the power of modern tools and platforms can transform the often-overwhelming task of flight hunting into a rewarding endeavor. Platforms like Going (formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights) demystify the process, spotlighting deals that offer both value and comfort. Moreover, diving deep into airline loyalty programs can unlock a treasure trove of benefits, from priority boarding to exclusive lounge access.

Beyond the tangible perks, there’s an intangible joy in finding an airline that resonates with your travel ethos. It could be the eco-friendly initiatives of Cathay Pacific or the unparalleled hospitality of Qatar Airways.

In the grand tapestry of travel, the flight is the first brushstroke, setting the color and mood for the experiences to come. With the right airline by your side, your Manila story begins even before touchdown. Safe travels and clear skies ahead!