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The Department of Trade and Industry is working with Indian conglomerate InterGlobe Enterprises to launch direct air links connecting major Indian hubs to key Philippine destinations such as Manila and Cebu
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InterGlobe Enterprises, the parent company of India’s largest airline, IndiGo, confirmed it has filed an application with the Philippine Civil Aeronautics Board to introduce direct flights
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The initial flight routes being evaluated aim to connect Mumbai and Manila, as well as direct service from both Mumbai and Delhi to Cebu
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DTI also offered to facilitate top-level introductions between InterGlobe and Philippine carriers to explore general sales agency representation, codeshare, and interline synergy arrangements
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The discussions also explored prospective opportunities across InterGlobe’s diverse business portfolio, including logistics and aviation-related services
The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is working with Indian conglomerate InterGlobe Enterprises to launch direct air links connecting major Indian hubs, including Delhi and Mumbai, to key Philippine destinations such as Manila and Cebu.
InterGlobe Enterprises, the parent company of India’s largest airline, IndiGo, confirmed in a business meeting with DTI in New Delhi on September 12 that it has filed an application with the Philippine Civil Aeronautics Board (CAB) to introduce direct flights, DTI said in a statement.
READ: IndiGo applies for permit to operate India-Philippine routes
The initial flight routes being evaluated aim to connect Mumbai to Manila, as well as direct service from both Mumbai and Delhi to Cebu. The routes would link the Philippines directly into IndiGo’s domestic Indian network and its Middle East routes, positioning Philippine hubs as onward-connection points for Indian outbound trade, business, and cargo traffic.
Roque said establishing direct air links will lower travel costs and boost bilateral trade and tourism between the two Asian economies.
“Direct air connectivity between India and the Philippines is an essential bridge to increase trade, investment, and tourism opportunities. Expanding direct flights and establishing air links expands our capacity for growth, connects key economic hubs, and opens up new opportunities for both our business sectors and citizens,” Roque said.
“The DTI stands fully committed to facilitating their commercial requirements, coordinating with relevant regulatory bodies, and fostering strategic partnerships with local carriers to ensure a seamless launch,” Roque added.
Beyond direct flights, DTI offered to facilitate top-level introductions between InterGlobe and leading Philippine carriers — including Philippine Airlines and Cebu Pacific — to explore general sales agency representation, codeshare, and interline synergy arrangements.
The discussions also explored prospective opportunities across InterGlobe’s diverse business portfolio, including enterprise technology and artificial intelligence via AIONOS, business-to-business express logistics in ecozones via MOVIN Logistics and UPS, pilot training via its CAE joint venture, and hospitality asset partnerships with local conglomerates.
DTI said it will serve as the primary government focal point to assist InterGlobe with regulatory assessments, slot allocations, inter-agency coordination, and investment facilitation.
