Delta Adds LAX-Manila Route as the Battle for West Coast and Asia Heats Up

Key Points

• Delta will become the only U.S. carrier with nonstop LA-Manila flights starting March 28, 2027, as part of an aggressive LAX-focused Asia-Pacific expansion.
• The strategy aims to close the gap with United, which earned $6.9 billion in Pacific revenue in 2025 versus Delta's $2.8 billion, and to establish Delta as the leading airline at the highly competitive LAX hub.
• Delta is backing the growth with infrastructure investments, including two Delta One Lounges at LAX, though it must secure viable slots at congested Manila airport.

Summary

Delta Air Lines will launch nonstop service between Los Angeles and Manila on March 28, 2027, becoming the only U.S. carrier flying that route directly. The move is central to Delta's broader strategy to make LAX its gateway to Asia and to challenge United's dominance in the Pacific region. Delta executives have identified Asia and the Middle East as top priorities for international growth—expected to outpace domestic expansion—and the carrier has already added LAX routes to Hong Kong and Melbourne. To support this push, Delta is investing in premium infrastructure at LAX, including two Delta One Lounges. Still, Delta trails United significantly in Pacific revenue ($2.8 billion vs. $6.9 billion in 2025), and LAX remains a fiercely competitive, non-dominant hub shared by American, Delta, United, and Southwest.