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Paris route sparks 25% rise in Europe travel from Philippines

Air France has resumed its direct flights between Manila and Paris after a 20-year hiatus, marking a significant milestone in enhancing connectivity between the Philippines and Europe.
Air France operates the Manila–Paris route using its Airbus A350-900 aircraft. This modern, fuel-efficient wide-body jet is configured in a three-class layout, accommodating a total of 324 passengers: 34 in Business Class, 24 in Premium Economy, and 266 in Economy Class. The Airbus A350-900 offers advanced features designed to enhance passenger comfort on long-haul flights, including improved cabin pressure, higher humidity levels, and quieter engines. Its long-range capability makes it well-suited for the approximately 13-hour non-stop journey between Manila and Paris.​ Photo: Tim, Flickr Public domain
Air France operates the Manila–Paris route using its Airbus A350-900 aircraft. This modern, fuel-efficient wide-body jet is configured in a three-class layout, accommodating a total of 324 passengers: 34 in Business Class, 24 in Premium Economy, and 266 in Economy Class. The Airbus A350-900 offers advanced features designed to enhance passenger comfort on long-haul flights, including improved cabin pressure, higher humidity levels, and quieter engines. Its long-range capability makes it well-suited for the approximately 13-hour non-stop journey between Manila and Paris.​ Photo: Tim, Flickr Public domain

After two decades, Air France’s direct Manila–Paris route is back—and it’s already making waves. The new service has sparked a 25% jump in European travel from the Philippines, opening doors for tourism, business, and even onward connections to the rest of Southeast Asia.


Key highlights of the Manila-Paris route

  • Flight schedule: The non-stop service operates three times a week—departing Paris on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays, and returning from Manila on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays. Flights are conducted using the modern Airbus A350-900 aircraft, offering 34 Business Class seats, 24 Premium Economy seats, and 266 Economy seats.

  • Enhanced connectivity: This route complements KLM's existing four weekly flights from Amsterdam to Manila, ensuring that the Air France-KLM group provides daily service between Europe and the Philippines.

  • Economic and cultural impact: The reinstated flights are expected to bolster tourism, business travel, and cultural exchanges between the two nations. French Ambassador to the Philippines, Marie Fontanel, emphasized that this development strengthens bilateral relations and opens new avenues for economic collaboration.

  • Warm reception: The inaugural flight was celebrated with traditional Filipino hospitality, including a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by key officials such as the Philippine Secretaries of Transportation and Tourism.


Growing demand: Southeast Asia and Europe

The reintroduction of the Manila-Paris route by Air France signifies a renewed commitment to fostering international ties and meeting the growing demand for direct travel options between Southeast Asia and Europe. As global travel continues to rebound, such initiatives play a crucial role in revitalizing the aviation industry and supporting economic growth.


For travelers seeking to explore the rich cultural landscapes of Paris or the vibrant heritage of Manila, this direct flight offers a convenient and efficient gateway, further bridging the distance between these two dynamic cities.

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