Philippine Airlines restarts Manila-Sapporo winter flights- AeroTime

Philippine Airlines (PAL) announced that it has restarted its seasonal nonstop flights between Manila and Sapporo. The first flight, PR 406, departed Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL) on November 24, 2025.

The carrier marked the occasion with PAL merchandise distributed to passengers before departure.

The service will operate through March 27, 2026, offering three weekly flights using the carrier’s Airbus A321neo aircraft configured with 168 seats: 12 in business class and 156 in economy. The aircraft features Wi-Fi connectivity and inflight entertainment systems.

Schedule 

Flights run every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, with PR 406 departing Manila at 06:30 and arriving at Sapporo’s New Chitose Airport (CTS) at 12:15.

Return flight PR 405 leaves Sapporo at 13:15, reaching Manila at 18:15 PM the same day.

“By relaunching this seasonal route, we are opening a gateway for travelers to experience Philippine Airlines’ world-class service, and signature heartfelt hospitality while supporting demand for flights between the two destinations,” said PAL President Richard Nuttall. 

“The returning service expands PAL’s presence in Japan, boosting connections across the Japan region,” Nuttall added.

The Manila-Sapporo route adds to PAL’s existing Japan network, which includes nonstop services to Tokyo Haneda Airport (HND), Tokyo Narita Airport (NRT), Osaka Kansai Airport (KIX)i, Nagoya Chubu International Airport (NGO), and Fukuoka Airport (FUK). 

The carrier also operates direct flights from Cebu International Airport (CEB) to both Osaka Kansai and Tokyo Narita, maintaining the largest Philippines-Japan route network among airlines.

Tourist appeal

Sapporo, the capital of Japan’s northern Hokkaido island, draws winter visitors with its ski resorts and annual Snow Festival. The city’s culinary scene, featuring signature ramen, soup curry, and fresh seafood, adds to its appeal for Filipino travelers during the holiday season.

For Japanese tourists, the route provides direct access to the Philippines without requiring connections through other Asian hubs.

The seasonal service reflects typical travel patterns, with peak demand during the Northern Hemisphere winter months when Sapporo’s snow-related attractions are at its prime.