Travel between the Philippines and Australia is expected to improve further with the recent launch of Jetstar Airways’ direct flights between Perth and Manila on Friday at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3.
Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Christina Frasco, in a news release said the new service enhances air connectivity and is seen to support tourism, business and cultural exchanges between the two countries.
“This flight represents more than just travel; it symbolizes our commitment to offering opportunities for tourism and business, making it easier for travelers to fly to Manila and further connect the Philippines to the world,” she said.
Jetstar’s inaugural flight, which carried 169 passengers, arrived after six hours and 35 minutes of travel. The airline will operate the route three times weekly — every Wednesday, Friday and Sunday — using a 232-seat aircraft.
Flight JQ80 departs Manila at 5:35 a.m. and lands in Perth at 1 p.m., while flight JQ81 leaves Perth at 9:10 p.m. and arrives in Manila at 4:15 a.m.
A new seasonal route connecting Brisbane to Cebu is set to begin December 3, 2025 and run until May 16, 2026. The service will operate three times a week. The new route will provide more options for Australian travelers visiting the Philippines’ major destinations, including Cebu, Palawan and Boracay.
Australia remains the country’s fifth-largest inbound tourism market. As of March 2025, some 271,207 Australian travelers arrived via air, representing about 5 percent of total international arrivals.
DOT data show that 53% of Australian visitors return to the Philippines to revisit top destinations and experience Filipino hospitality. Vacation remains the main purpose of travel for 66% of Australian tourists. Some 58% of them reported purchasing Filipino delicacies during their stay.
Frasco said direct flights support DOT’s strategy to expand international air access under the National Tourism Development Plan. As of November 2025, 15 new international direct routes have started operations in the country. (PNA)