Manila: Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Christina Frasco has announced strong government support for IndiGo Airlines' proposed expansion into the Philippines, including plans to initiate direct flights from India to Manila and Cebu next year. This development aims to enhance connectivity between the two nations and bolster tourism.

According to Philippines News Agency, Frasco, who also serves as vice chair of the Civil Aeronautics Board, held discussions with IndiGo's senior vice president Vinay Malhotra during President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s state visit. IndiGo, India's leading passenger airline, operates a vast fleet of over 400 aircraft, covering more than 130 destinations with 2,300 daily flights, and expects to carry 118 million passengers in 2024.

Malhotra highlighted the airline's expanding fleet, which adds one new aircraft weekly and has over 1,000 on order. This growth positions IndiGo to introduce long-haul aircraft capable of serving key Philippine gateways. "The Philippines is definitely on our radar," Malhotra stated, noting that the country is being considered alongside destinations such as Seychelles, Mauritius, and Bali in Indonesia.

Frasco welcomed IndiGo's interest, emphasizing President Marcos' push for structural reforms to create a more favorable travel climate and expand connectivity. She stated, "No less than our President, by way of these structural changes that he is making to make the climate for travel from India to the Philippines truly flourish, has communicated the government's desire to expand connectivity to the Philippines."

Frasco committed to supporting route development through coordination, partnerships, and joint marketing initiatives. The meeting also highlighted India's recent grant of free e-visas for Filipinos, which the Philippines reciprocated to enhance tourist arrivals.

India has become a significant source market for Philippine tourism, with Air India set to commence five weekly direct flights from New Delhi to Manila starting October 1.