THE Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is working with Indian conglomerate InterGlobe Enterprises to establish direct flights between India and the Philippines, which is expected to boost bilateral trade, investment and tourism.
InterGlobe, the parent company of IndiGo, India’s largest airline, has applied to the Civil Aeronautics Board for authority to operate direct flights between the two countries.
The company is initially evaluating a Mumbai-Manila route, which could be followed by flights connecting Cebu with Mumbai and New Delhi.
The proposed services would connect the Philippines to IndiGo’s extensive domestic network and routes to the Middle East. These could also position Manila and Cebu as onward-connection points for Indian business travelers, tourists, and cargo.
“Direct air connectivity between India and the Philippines is an essential bridge to increase trade, investment, and tourism opportunities,” Trade Secretary Cristina Roque said.
The additional air links could lower travel costs, connect major economic hubs, and create opportunities for businesses and travelers in both countries, Roque pointed out.
DTI said it would serve as the government’s main point of contact in assisting InterGlobe with investment facilitation, regulatory assessments, interagency coordination, and airport slot allocations.
The agency is also exploring potential codeshare, interline, and general sales agency agreements between IndiGo and Philippine carriers. It offered to facilitate discussions with Philippine Airlines and Cebu Pacific.
“DTI stands fully committed to facilitating their commercial requirements, coordinating with relevant regulatory bodies and fostering strategic partnerships with local carriers to ensure a seamless launch,” Roque said.
Beyond aviation, DTI and InterGlobe discussed possible cooperation in artificial intelligence and enterprise technology through Aionos; ecozone express logistics through Movin Logistics and United Parcel Service; pilot training through CAE Simulation Training Private Ltd.; and hospitality investments with Philippine companies.
The discussions followed Roque’s meeting with InterGlobe Air Transport director and InterGlobe Hotels President and CEO JB Singh, Vice President for Aeropolitical and Industry Affairs Rajan Malhotra, and Executive Vice President for Corporate Affairs Ragini Chopra. Giselle Jordan
