Delta Air Lines Launches Nonstop Los Angeles to Manila Service

Delta Air Lines will launch its first nonstop service between Los Angeles International Airport and Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Manila starting March 28, 2027. The airline will initially operate three flights per week using Airbus A350-900 aircraft, before increasing to daily service on June 7, 2027. This expansion makes Delta the only United States-based carrier providing nonstop service on this specific corridor.

The route targets strong demand from business travelers, tourists, and the large Filipino community in Southern California. It also integrates with Delta's joint venture with Korean Air to provide connection options via Seoul. The move follows a period of suspension; while Delta previously served Manila via Tokyo and Seoul, it had not operated a nonstop mainland U.S. to Philippines route until now.

Philippine Tourism Secretary Dita Angara-Mathay welcomed the route, stating that increased competition could make air travel more affordable for Filipinos. The new service creates direct competition for Philippine Airlines, which is increasing its own Manila-Los Angeles frequency to 18 weekly flights in June 2026. The New Ninoy Aquino International Airport Infra Corp. and Los Angeles World Airports also expressed support, noting the route's importance for overseas Filipino workers and the Filipino-American community.