Manila-Darwin service announced
The Northern Territory government has welcomed the announcement by Philippine Airlines that it will commence daily flights between Manila and Darwin from 1 June.
Minister for tourism and major events, Matt Conlan, said the announcement would bring an additional 2000 seats a week in and out of Darwin and the Territory. “The new Philippine Airlines service is further recognition that Darwin is perfectly positioned as an international aviation hub and a gateway from Asia for holiday and business travellers.
“Philippine Airlines has a comprehensive international network from our tourism target markets in North Asia and North America, and the new service will undoubtedly enhance access for travellers wishing to visit the Northern Territory from there. “Tourism remains an absolute priority of this government and the introduction of the Philippine Airlines service further cements the tourism industry as a major pillar of this government’s three-hub economy.”
Minister for business, Peter Chandler, said the government had been working closely with Darwin International Airport to grow airline services into the territory. “We are delighted by the entry of Philippine Airlines,” Mr Chandler said. “The new service gives the business community the choice of travelling on a full service carrier to Manila and beyond and is timely given the activity arising from the resources boom and projects like Ichthys.
“We want to continue to expand Darwin as an international aviation hub and will continue talks with other airlines to achieve this vision.”
Philippine Airlines will be the second full-service international airline to serve Darwin; the other being Silk Air, which commenced its Singapore-Darwin service last March. Low-cost carrier Jetstar also operates the Manila-Darwin route four times per week.
