Air France’s direct flights between Manila and Paris have resumed for the first time in 20 years. Additionally, direct flights between the Philippines and the European Union are once again available, making travel more convenient for both leisure and business travelers.

The inaugural Air France Flight AF209 departed from Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3 at approximately 9:50 p.m. on Sunday, 8 December, and arrived at Paris-Charles de Gaulle Airport at 5:50 a.m. the following day.

French Ambassador Marie Fontanel, Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista, Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco, and New NAIA Infra Corp (NNIC) General Manager Angelito Alvarez were among the key officials who attended the departure ceremony.

Air France will now operate three weekly flights as follows:

• Flight AF209 (Manila to Paris): Departs NAIA Terminal 3 at 9:50 p.m. every Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday, arriving at Charles de Gaulle at 5:50 a.m. the next day.

• Flight AF208 (Paris to Manila): Departs Charles de Gaulle at 11:20 p.m. every Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday, arriving at NAIA Terminal 3 at 7:30 p.m. the next day.