Philippines pushes for direct Russia flights as charters resume

The Philippines wants more direct air links with Russia and hopes the number of nonstop services will grow, Ambassador Igor Bailen said, as Russian charter capacity to the archipelago restarts for the winter season, according to ATOR news service. IrAero resumed charters from Irkutsk and Khabarovsk to Kalibo on 20 October after a seasonal break; flights will run until April 2027 once every 10 days on Sukhoi Superjet 100 aircraft with a technical stop in Hefei, China. IrAero is currently the only Russian carrier on the route.  

Bailen said S7 may launch Vladivostok–Cebu flights, while direct services from Moscow and St Petersburg to the Philippines are also planned. The embassy is working with the Philippines Civil Aviation Board on technical requirements. Direct Moscow–Manila and Moscow–Cebu flights have been discussed since 2023, but Russians still travel via connections, including through the UAE.  

Emirates offers convenient connections, with winter fares from RUB 116,000 (approx. USD 1,290). ITM group’s “Philippine Holidays” programme (14–15 days, Cebu, Bohol, Boracay, Manila) costs around RUB 265,200 (approx. USD 2,950) per person with flights, meals and excursions. “Philippine Mosaic” (Cebu, El Nido/Palawan, Boracay) with Emirates starts from RUB 209,400 (approx. USD 2,330) per person. Agents report winter bookings are stronger than last year.

Photo by Natalia Klimenok for Russian Travel Digest.