Overview
- Delta told regulators it plans daily nonstop Los Angeles–Manila flights starting in summer 2027 using Airbus A350-900 aircraft.
- In the same filing, Delta asked the DOT to defer action on Philippine Airlines’ Chicago application until the Philippine government provides written assurances on slots and airport access.
- Delta cited the need for commercially viable takeoff and landing times at Manila’s constrained airport, and the DOT and Philippine authorities have not yet responded publicly.
- The carrier argued its entry would add competition and new routing options, while Philippine Airlines already flies LAX–MNL and United serves MNL from San Francisco.
- Industry coverage questioned the economics of a 7,000-plus-mile route and Delta’s West Coast strategy, noting the airline last operated Manila flights via Asia before suspending them in 2020–2021.