Philippine Airlines is set to introduce nonstop flights between Manila and Auckland, starting December 6.
The airline will operate flight PR218 three times weekly on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Sundays, departing Manila at 2315, and arriving in Auckland at 1405 the following day. Flight PR219 leaves Auckland on Fridays, Saturdays and Tuesdays at 0030, touching down in Manila at 0545.
The new route will reduce travel time from just over 12 hours to 10 hours, losing the stop in Cairns on the current service. Flights will be operated by two-class 254-seat A340s, increasing capacity by 60 per cent from the current 156-seat A320s. The airline has recently brought forward the launch of the B777-300ER on its London-Manila route from December to September 19.
Commenting on the service, country manager UK and Ireland, David Cochrane, said:
“Our new nonstop service makes it easier than ever to reach Auckland from the UK. Same day connections at Manila make the trip down to New Zealand faster and more convenient.”
