Philippine Airlines to Revive Manila-Saipan Flights in 2026 – Major Expansion into the Pacific!

Published on December 11, 2025

Philippine Airlines (PAL), under the leadership of Lucio Tan, is set to resume its direct flights between Manila and Saipan beginning March 29, 2026. This strategic move is designed to enhance PAL’s presence in the Pacific region as it capitalizes on rising travel demand and expands connectivity to more destinations across the area.

By reintroducing flights to Saipan, PAL is solidifying its footprint in the Pacific and positioning itself as a key player in the region’s aviation sector. Saipan will become PAL’s seventh U.S. destination, joining Los Angeles, San Francisco, New York, Seattle, Guam, and Honolulu in the airline’s expansive route network.

Growing the Pacific Network

This new service marks a significant milestone for Philippine Airlines, which has been steadily expanding its global presence. The move into Saipan is part of a broader strategy to deepen the airline’s ties with the Pacific region, providing more options for travelers from both the Philippines and the U.S.

Saipan, the largest island in the Northern Mariana Islands, is known for its natural beauty, making it an attractive destination for both leisure and business travelers. PAL’s reintroduction of direct flights will offer increased convenience for those seeking to visit the island or connect to other Pacific destinations.

Affordable Fares to Attract Early Travelers

To entice early bookings, Philippine Airlines is rolling out special introductory fares for both Economy and Business class travelers. Economy passengers can enjoy one-way fares starting at $249 and roundtrip fares at $389. For Business class, one-way fares will begin at $669, while roundtrip fares will be available for $1,029.

These competitive fares are designed to make Saipan more accessible for a wide range of travelers, from those seeking a budget-friendly option to those looking for a more premium flying experience. By offering such attractive pricing, PAL aims to stimulate demand and attract tourists to the region, enhancing the connectivity between the Philippines and the Pacific.

New Flight Schedule and Timings

The new Manila-Saipan route will be operated twice a week, giving passengers greater flexibility when traveling between the two regions. Flights will depart from Manila on Wednesdays and Sundays at 7:45 p.m., with arrivals in Saipan scheduled for 1:45 a.m. the following day. For return journeys, flights will depart Saipan on Mondays and Thursdays at 2:50 a.m., arriving in Manila at 5:05 a.m. This convenient schedule allows travelers to make the most of their time on both sides of the Pacific, with multiple options for both departures and returns.

Expanding the PAL Brand Across the Pacific

By resuming flights to Saipan, Philippine Airlines strengthens its position as the airline with the largest number of flights between the Philippines and the U.S.. The addition of Saipan to its network further enhances PAL’s trans-Pacific offerings, providing more destinations for travelers from both regions.

PAL President, Richard Nuttall, emphasized the airline’s commitment to expanding its global reach. He remarked that the airline’s objective is to meet the growing demand for both passenger and cargo services, providing top-tier service with the renowned Filipino warmth and hospitality that PAL is known for. This expansion is seen as a direct response to evolving market needs and the increased interest in the Pacific region.

Increased Connectivity for the Pacific Region

The revival of the Manila-Saipan route is part of PAL’s broader strategy to improve connectivity within the Pacific. The airline’s network, already robust with services to Guam and Honolulu, will soon include new routes to Palau and a Cebu–Guam service, further enhancing travel options within the region. With its continued growth in this area, Philippine Airlines aims to provide travelers with more seamless connections, particularly for those heading to and from the Pacific Islands.

Moreover, the airline’s expansion in the Pacific also aligns with the Philippines’ broader tourism goals, as increased air connectivity brings in more international visitors, further boosting the local economy. This expanded network not only supports tourism but also strengthens Philippine Airlines’ position in the highly competitive Asia-Pacific aviation market.

What Travelers Can Expect

As passengers prepare for PAL’s resumption of direct flights to Saipan, they can expect the same world-class service and comfort that Philippine Airlines is known for. From the moment they board the aircraft, passengers will be treated to a seamless and comfortable travel experience, whether in the Economy or Business class. The airline’s attentive and warm service ensures that travelers are taken care of from start to finish.

In addition to high-quality in-flight service, PAL is committed to maintaining its reputation for punctuality and reliability. This renewed focus on customer satisfaction and operational excellence is expected to drive increased demand for the airline’s services, especially among those looking to explore the scenic beauty of Saipan and other Pacific destinations.

A Bright Future for Philippine Airlines

As Philippine Airlines continues to expand its network across the globe, the return of direct flights to Saipan marks a pivotal moment in the airline’s ongoing growth. With its competitive pricing, convenient flight schedule, and unmatched service, PAL is positioning itself as a leader in the Pacific aviation market.

Looking ahead, the airline’s commitment to expanding its global presence reflects its determination to adapt to the changing demands of the travel industry. By offering more destinations and better connectivity, Philippine Airlines is poised to serve as the bridge between the Philippines and the rest of the world, including the thriving Pacific region.