MANILA – AirAsia Philippines is expanding its network in Japan, introducing flights between Manila and Nagoya starting Oct. 29.

The low-cost carrier will fly thrice weekly – every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday – between the Ninoy Aquino International Airport and Chubu International Airport.

"Japan is one of the strongest regional markets for AirAsia Philippines," the airline's chief executive officer Ricky Isla said on Wednesday.

AirAsia cited a recent Statista survey which showed that 48 percent of Filipinos preferred Japan as a holiday destination.

Its rival Cebu Pacific had also said Japan is a top-of-mind destination among Filipino travelers, making the Gokongwei-led airline to expand services between Japan and Cebu.

AirAsia now services Narita and Osaka routes via Manila.

The carrier said it would launch the Nagoya flights in October in time for the autumn so that travelers could enjoy the sunny and cooler vibe.

Travelers can avail of one-way base fare tickets for as low as PHP888 until Aug. 11 for Nagoya flights from Oct. 29, 2024 to March 29, 2025. (PNA)