Philippine Airlines has begun nonstop flights between Chicago and Manila, giving travelers in the U.S. Midwest a direct passenger link to the Philippines for the first time. The inaugural service departed Chicago O’Hare on Nov. 9, 2026, according to the Philippine Consulate General in Chicago.

The route is scheduled three times a week—Monday, Wednesday and Friday—using Airbus A350-900 aircraft. PAL’s winter timetable lists flights through late March 2027, with schedules split into date ranges; travelers should confirm operating days and times with the airline before booking.

What travelers should know

The Chicago–Manila service adds a nonstop option for passengers who previously needed to connect through another city. From Manila, PAL says passengers can connect onward to destinations around the Philippines and across Asia. A direct flight can remove a connection, though total journey time, fares and onward connections still depend on the itinerary.

In PAL’s published winter timetable, Chicago-to-Manila flight PR 133 is scheduled to leave O’Hare at 10:45 p.m. and arrive in Manila at 5:25 a.m. two calendar days later, with times shown locally. The schedule is listed for Monday, Wednesday and Friday through March 12, 2027; the airline shows a different departure time for the later March dates. Airline schedules can change, so check the exact date when booking.

For a current booking, compare the nonstop fare with connecting itineraries and check baggage, change and cancellation terms before purchase. Travelers making onward trips should leave enough time for any separate tickets or airport transfers.

For more trip planning coverage, visit The Globuzz’s Travel section.

Sources

Travel Weekly; Philippine Consulate General in Chicago; Philippine Airlines winter timetable.