PAL reopens seasonal Sapporo route, expanding Japan footprint

Philippine Airlines is rebuilding momentum in the Japan market as it resumes seasonal nonstop Manila–Sapporo flights, a move that strengthens the flag carrier’s reach at a time of rising outbound and inbound travel demand.

The service, operating from Nov. 24 through March 27, 2026, reconnects Manila to Hokkaido’s winter capital. 

Management’s view

“By re-launching 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,” PAL president Richard Nuttall said in a statement on Tuesday. 

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

Thrice weekly flights 

The airline will deploy its 168-seat Airbus A321neo every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, offering business and economy cabins with inflight entertainment and Wi-Fi.

With the country’s largest Japan network, including Osaka, Nagoya, Fukuoka, Haneda, Narita, and Cebu-origin routes,PAL is positioning Sapporo as a seasonal but strategic link in its broader Japan expansion story.

—Edited by Miguel R. Camus