Philippine Airlines (PAL) announced its much-anticipated return to the Philippines-Hokkaido market with the revival of seasonal nonstop flights between Manila and Sapporo. This strategic move reaffirms PAL’s commitment to expanding travel opportunities and strengthening connections between the Philippines and Japan.
Beginning November 24, 2025, and operating until March 27, 2026, travelers will once again enjoy convenient direct access between the vibrant Philippine capital and the scenic wonders of northern Japan. The Manila-Sapporo route will operate every succeeding winter season from November to March, providing a consistent link for leisure and business travelers.
PAL will offer nonstop flights to Sapporo’s New Chitose Airport every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. The route will be serviced by the Philippine flag carrier’s modern Airbus A321neo aircraft, which features 168 seats, including 12 in Business Class and 156 in Economy Class. Passengers can look forward to extensive inflight entertainment options and Wi-Fi connectivity for a comfortable journey.
“We are thrilled to announce the reopening of our direct flights from Manila to Sapporo, which will help us strengthen both bilateral relations and cultural ties with our Japanese counterparts,” said Richard Nuttall, PAL President. “This route not only provides a convenient travel option for Filipino tourists and overseas workers but also opens doors for Japanese travelers to explore and experience the Philippines’ vibrant culture and warm hospitality.”
Sapporo, the capital of Hokkaido, is renowned for its world-class skiing resorts and the annual Sapporo Snow Festival, which features enormous ice sculptures. The city also offers a wide range of cultural and culinary adventures that are popular tourist draws during the winter season.
Philippine Airlines currently boasts the largest network of destination points and routes between the Philippines and Japan, with nonstop services to Osaka Kansai, Nagoya, Fukuoka, Tokyo Haneda, and Tokyo Narita, in addition to direct flights from Cebu to both Osaka Kansai and Tokyo Narita. PAL previously operated the Manila-Sapporo-Manila route from December 2018 to March 2020.
For flight reservations and other inquiries, travelers may visit the PAL website at www.philippineairlines.com, contact the PAL Hotline at (+632) 8855-8888, visit the PAL mobile app, or reach out to their preferred ticketing offices or travel agents.
FACTS ON THE NEW MANILA-SAPPORO SEASONAL SERVICE (November 24, 2025 to March 27, 2026):
The Manila-Sapporo-Manila route will operate three times weekly:
- PR 406 Manila-Sapporo: Every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, departing Manila at 06:30 AM, arriving in Sapporo at 12:15 PM.
- PR 405 Sapporo-Manila: Every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, departing Sapporo at 01:15 PM, arriving in Manila at 06:10 PM.
