Philippine Airlines Resumes Manila–Saipan Flights to Boost Pacific Tourism

Philippine Airlines will resume direct Manila–Saipan flights starting March 29, 2026, providing twice-weekly service designed to supercharge Pacific tourism connectivity and make Saipan more accessible to Filipino and international travellers. The Manila–Saipan flights are expected to cut travel time and make short getaways and event travel considerably easier.

Route details and schedule

The service will operate twice a week on Wednesdays and Sundays using Airbus A321 aircraft. Departures from Manila are scheduled at 7:45 p.m., with arrivals in Saipan at 1:45 a.m. The return flight leaves Saipan at 2:50 a.m. and arrives in Manila at 5:05 a.m., delivering an efficient roughly four-hour transit that removes lengthy connections.

What the service means for Saipan tourism

Officials and industry stakeholders expect the restored link to drive visitor growth by making Saipan a practical option for short-break travellers from the Philippines and other nearby markets. Easier access is likely to lift occupancy at beachfront resorts and eco-lodges while providing steadier demand for dive operators and cultural tour providers throughout the Northern Mariana Islands.

• Service launch date: March 29, 2026
• Frequency: Twice weekly (Wednesdays and Sundays)
• Aircraft: Airbus A321
• Typical flight time: ~4 hours

The reinstated route moves beyond its previous seasonal pattern and is being positioned as a permanent part of Philippine Airlines’ network expansion that also features destinations such as Guam, Honolulu, and Palau. Tourism boards aim to capitalise on Filipino diaspora ties and convert one-off visitors into repeat travellers who explore neighbouring islands like Tinian and Rota.

Beaches, diving and eco-tourism appeal

Saipan’s white-sand beaches such as Micro Beach and Obyan Beach, alongside renowned dive sites like the Grotto and Devilfish, stand to benefit from increased accessibility. Streamlined flights and introductory fares are expected to draw watersports enthusiasts and certified divers, while sustainable tourism measures including marine protected areas are positioned to meet rising eco-traveller demand.

Sports and event tourism gains

The Manila–Saipan air link also strengthens Oceania sports connectivity by easing travel for athletes and spectators attending competitions at venues such as the Multi-Purpose Stadium and aquatic centres. Reliable airlift is expected to increase group bookings around event calendars, bolstering cultural festivals and shopping activity across the islands.

Economic and community impacts

Twice-weekly flights are forecast to stimulate local economies by supporting jobs in hospitality, ground handling and tourism services. Hotels such as the World Resort and Hyatt Regency are expected to see occupancy improvements as the Philippines’ middle-class traveller adds to established Japanese and Korean visitor bases. Local markets and eateries may benefit from increased culinary exchange as Filipino visitors seek familiar flavours alongside Chamorro dishes.

Authorities are preparing infrastructure and services for the anticipated demand: airport upgrades, expanded rental and shuttle options, streamlined customs, and collaboration on visa facilitation for Filipino travellers are among measures designed to keep arrivals smooth and encourage spontaneous trips.

So what? For travellers, the restored Manila–Saipan flights mean more direct, time-efficient options for beach breaks, diving trips and event travel. For the industry, the permanent route can stabilise visitor numbers year-round, attract new market segments, and encourage further investments in Northern Mariana Islands tourism infrastructure.