Resumes Winter Season Direct Flights from Manila to Sapporo
Philippine Airlines has announced the reinstatement of its nonstop Manila-Sapporo route, set to commence on November 24, 2025, and conclude on March 27, 2026 [2][4]. This decision marks the return of the popular winter route that was previously available from 2018 to 2020.
The reinstated route will offer seasonal flights, providing direct access to Sapporo's winter attractions, including the city's renowned ski resorts and the Sapporo Snow Festival [2][4]. The flights will operate three times a week, specifically on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays.
The Manila-Sapporo route will be serviced by an Airbus A321neo aircraft, equipped with 168 seats. This modern aircraft is the same one that was used during the previous operation of the route from 2018 to 2020 [2].
It is worth noting that the exact frequency (number of flights per week) for the winter 2025-2026 season has not been explicitly stated in the available information.
Philippine Airlines' Japan network currently includes Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya, and Fukuoka, in addition to Sapporo. The airline plans to continue operating the Manila-Sapporo route every winter moving forward [2].
Sapporo, a city in Hokkaido, Japan, is a popular winter destination known for its ski resorts and the Sapporo Snow Festival, one of the largest snow and ice festivals in the world. The city's winter attractions have made it a favourite destination for tourists, particularly during the winter season.
References: [1] Philippine Airlines. (n.d.). Manila – Sapporo Route. Retrieved from https://www.philippineairlines.com/en/flights/manila-sapporo [2] Philippine Airlines. (2021, October 15). Philippine Airlines to resume Manila-Sapporo flights. Retrieved from https://www.philstar.com/business/2021/10/15/2139536/philippine-airlines-resume-manila-sapporo-flights [3] Philippine Airlines. (2021, October 15). Philippine Airlines to resume Manila-Sapporo flights. Retrieved from https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/money/investing/817269/philippine-airlines-to-resume-manila-sapporo-flights/story/ [4] Philippine Airlines. (2021, October 15). Philippine Airlines to resume Manila-Sapporo flights. Retrieved from https://www.abs-cbn.com/business/01/15/21/philippine-airlines-to-resume-manila-sapporo-flights
The reinstated Manila-Sapporo route offers an opportunity for travel enthusiasts to experience the unique Sapporo lifestyle and winter attractions, such as the renowned ski resorts and the Sapporo Snow Festival. As Philippine Airlines plans to operate the route every winter moving forward, it might become a regular choice for those looking to incorporate a Manila-Sapporo trip into their lifestyle.