National flag carrier Philippine Airlines (PAL) begins its double-daily service between Manila and Tokyo-Haneda today, March 30, 2014. This expansion makes PAL the largest carrier offering direct flights between the Philippines and Japan.
PAL’s new route creates exciting opportunities for trade and tourism growth between the two countries. Business travelers often prefer Tokyo-Haneda due to its convenient location near Tokyo’s central business district.
Located just 30 minutes from central Tokyo, Haneda International Airport is a popular choice for business travelers and those seeking the fastest route to the city. The airport boasts one domestic and two international passenger terminals, and a monorail provides a quick 14-kilometer connection to Tokyo.
In contrast, Narita Airport lies approximately 64 kilometers east of Tokyo. PAL’s new Haneda service provides a competitive advantage through its strategic location and convenient arrival and departure times.
This new service complements the flag carrier’s existing thrice-daily flights from Manila to Tokyo’s Narita Airport.
PAL president and chief operating officer Ramon S. Ang said:
With this service, and what we already have, we are providing both our Japanese and Filipino customers the benefit of choice in terms of which gateway best suits their travel itinerary. As the operator of the Philippines’ flag carrier, we are deeply honored to serve as a bridge by which tourism and business between our two countries can grow.
PAL also operates two daily flights between Cebu City and Tokyo. This extensive network, totaling 11 daily flights to Manila from various points in Japan including Fukuoka, Osaka, and Nagoya, solidifies PAL’s position as the leading carrier in the region.
Japan remains a top holiday destination for Filipino tourists and is the Philippines’ third-largest source of visitors. Over 400,000 Japanese tourists arrived in 2013, according to the Philippine Department of Tourism. Likewise, more than 90,000 Filipinos visited Japan in 2012.
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