🇺🇸✈️🇵🇭 The Ultimate Guide to Booking Flights from the U.S. to the Philippines (2025 Edition)

Flying from the U.S. to the Philippines is more than just a trip — for many, it’s a long-awaited reunion with family, a balikbayan tradition, or even a once-in-a-lifetime vacation. But with distances of 7,000+ miles and limited nonstop routes, it can also be one of the most expensive international flights.

The good news? With the right strategies, you can save hundreds — even during peak seasons like Christmas. This ultimate guide covers the best airlines, routes, booking windows, and money-saving hacks for 2025.

1. Understanding the U.S.–Philippines Flight Market

Most U.S.–Philippines flights land at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL) in Manila. A few routes go to Clark (CRK) or Cebu (CEB).

• Nonstop options: Limited to Philippine Airlines (PAL) from Los Angeles, San Francisco, Honolulu, and New York.
• One-stop options: Major carriers like ANA, EVA Air, Japan Airlines, Korean Air, and Cathay Pacific connect through Asia.
• Budget carriers: Rare for this route, but AirAsia and Cebu Pacific sometimes offer cheap connecting flights within Asia.

👉 Want to see how prices behave for holiday seasons? Check our guide: Best Time to Book Flights for Christmas 2025.

---

2. When to Book for the Best Price

Booking windows make or break your savings:

• Sweet spot: 3–6 months in advance (for most of the year).
• For Christmas & Holy Week: 5–8 months in advance (July–October bookings are best).
• Last-minute? Don’t count on deals. A December booking can cost $500+ more.

👉 See our detailed breakdown: How to Score Cheap Flights to Manila in 2025.

---

3. Best Airlines for U.S.–Philippines Flights

✈️ Philippine Airlines (PAL)

• Pros: Only nonstop flights from the U.S. to Manila; generous baggage allowance.
• Cons: Higher prices for peak dates; limited U.S. coverage.

✈️ EVA Air

• Pros: Excellent service, Taipei stopover options, often $200–300 cheaper than PAL.
• Cons: One-stop required.

✈️ ANA (All Nippon Airways)

• Pros: Tokyo stopover, top-rated service, premium economy option.
• Cons: Usually pricier than EVA.

✈️ Korean Air & Asiana

• Pros: Reliable service, Seoul stopover opportunities.
• Cons: Slightly longer total travel time.

✈️ United, Delta, American (U.S. Carriers)

• Pros: Easy connections within the U.S., mileage earning.
• Cons: Usually more expensive than Asian carriers.

---

4. Cheapest U.S. Cities to Fly From

Not all departure cities are equal. Here’s where you’ll save the most:

• Los Angeles (LAX): Most competition, cheapest nonstop flights.
• San Francisco (SFO): PAL hub, strong competition.
• Seattle (SEA): EVA, ANA, and Korean Air all operate here.
• Honolulu (HNL): Shortest U.S.–Philippines route; sometimes great deals.
• New York (JFK): Nonstop with PAL, but usually $200–400 more expensive.

Tip: East Coasters can often save by booking a positioning flight to LAX or SFO, then flying nonstop to Manila.

---

5. How to Save Money on Your Booking

a. Use Flight Apps Wisely

Set alerts on Google Flights, Oojyu Flight Search, and Hopper to track fares.

b. Consider Alternate Airports

Flying into Clark (CRK) or Cebu (CEB) can sometimes save $100–200.

c. Mix & Match Airlines

Book separate one-ways: outbound on Philippine Airlines, return on EVA or ANA.

d. Watch Baggage Rules

PAL allows 2 free checked bags, while many U.S. carriers charge $75–100.

e. Redeem Miles or Points

U.S.–Philippines routes are expensive, so redeeming loyalty points gives great value.

---

6. Example Price Breakdown (Based on 2024 Data)

Los Angeles → Manila (Roundtrip, Economy):

• Booked in September: $870
• Booked in November: $1,150
• Booked in December: $1,400

New York → Manila (Roundtrip, Economy):

• Booked in September: $1,050
• Booked in November: $1,350
• Booked in December: $1,600+

Expect similar or slightly higher fares in 2025.

---

7. Travel Tips for a Smooth Journey

• Arrive early at NAIA: Immigration lines can be long; plan 3–4 hours before departure.
• Check transit visa rules: If transiting via Japan or Korea, U.S. green card holders may need extra documents.
• Plan stopovers: Consider breaking up your trip with a night in Tokyo or Seoul.

👉 For more family-friendly hacks, visit our Travel Smart category.

---

Final Thoughts

Flying from the U.S. to the Philippines doesn’t have to drain your wallet. By booking in the right window, choosing smart routes, and using flight apps, you can save hundreds — and enjoy a smoother journey.

The key takeaways:

• Book 3–6 months ahead (5–8 for holidays).
• Fly from West Coast hubs if possible.
• Compare nonstop vs stopover savings.

👉 Ready to book your trip? Search the best fares today with Oojyu Flight Search.

---

❓ FAQs About U.S.–Philippines Flights

Q: Which airline has the cheapest flights from the U.S. to Manila?
EVA Air and China Airlines are often $200–300 cheaper than Philippine Airlines, but PAL offers nonstops.

Q: How long is the flight from Los Angeles to Manila?
A nonstop takes about 14–15 hours. With stopovers, expect 18–22 hours.

Q: What’s the baggage allowance on PAL flights?
Typically 2 checked bags (50 lbs each) included in economy.

Q: Is it worth flying into Clark or Cebu instead of Manila?
Yes, especially if you’re visiting the provinces. It can also save money and time compared to Manila’s busy airport.

Q: Do fares drop closer to departure?
Not for this route. U.S.–Philippines flights almost always rise in price the longer you wait.