About EVA Air
EVA Air (IATA: BR, ICAO: EVA) is a Taiwanese full-service international airline headquartered in Luzhu District, Taoyuan City, Taiwan. Founded on 8 March 1989 as a subsidiary of the Evergreen Group, one of the world's largest shipping conglomerates, EVA Air has grown into Taiwan's leading long-haul carrier and one of the most respected names in Asian aviation. The airline is a full member of the Star Alliance, the world's largest airline alliance, having joined on 18 June 2013.
EVA Air operates scheduled passenger and cargo services to destinations across Asia, Oceania, Europe, and North America from its main hub at Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport (TPE). The airline holds the coveted Skytrax 5-Star Airline rating, a distinction it has now held for eleven consecutive years and one earned by only a handful of carriers worldwide. For Filipino travelers, EVA Air operates a direct daily service between Manila and Taipei, opening up seamless onward connections across East Asia, North America, and Europe through its Taoyuan hub, all bookable through Traveloka.
Airline Overview and History
From a start-up carrier to an internationally acclaimed 5-star airline, this airline's journey spans more than three decades. Below are the key milestones in its history:
- 1989 - EVA Airways Corporation was incorporated on 8 March 1989 with start-up capital of US$400 million, founded by Evergreen Group chairman Chang Yung-fa
- 1991 - The airline launched its first commercial flight on 1 July 1991 using Boeing 767-300ER aircraft, serving routes from Taoyuan to Bangkok, Seoul, Singapore, and Jakarta
- 1992 - It introduced the world's first Premium Economy cabin, branded Evergreen Deluxe Class, setting a new industry benchmark
- 1992 - The carrier expanded into North America in December 1992, launching the first nonstop transpacific service from Taipei to Los Angeles using Boeing 747-400 aircraft
- 2005 - It took delivery of its first Boeing 777-300ER, significantly expanding long-haul capacity
- 2013 - The airline became a full member of Star Alliance on 18 June 2013, extending its global reach to more than 1,300 destinations in over 190 countries through partner carriers
- 2016 - It was awarded the prestigious Skytrax 5-Star Airline rating for the first time, joining an elite group of the world's finest carriers
- 2018 - The airline received its first Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner in October 2018, modernizing its mid-range and long-haul fleet
- 2019 - It took delivery of the first Boeing 787-10 Dreamliner, the largest variant of the Dreamliner family
- 2023 - The carrier ordered 18 Airbus A321neo aircraft to renew its narrow-body fleet, with deliveries continuing through the current decade
- 2026 - The airline earned its eleventh consecutive Skytrax 5-Star Airline certification while continuing to expand its Boeing 787 order book to modernize long-haul operations
The airline's main hub is Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport (TPE), located approximately 40 kilometers west of downtown Taipei. The airport serves as the gateway for its extensive international network, including the daily nonstop service to and from Manila. The airline's parent, Evergreen Group, also operates Evergreen Marine Corporation, one of the world's largest container shipping lines, giving the group a unique dual presence in both air and sea transport.
Fleet and Aircraft
This carrier operates a modern fleet of wide-body and narrow-body aircraft carefully selected to serve its diverse network of short-haul, medium-haul, and long-haul routes. The current fleet includes:
- Boeing 777-300ER - The flagship of the long-haul fleet, with 33 aircraft in service. Configured with Royal Laurel Class (business), Premium Economy, and Economy cabins, this aircraft type is deployed on high-demand routes to North America, Europe, and Oceania, and occasionally on the Manila-Taipei route during peak seasons
- Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner - A fuel-efficient wide-body in active service, with additional units on order. It features advanced cabin pressure and humidity systems for enhanced passenger comfort on medium- and long-haul routes
- Boeing 787-10 Dreamliner - The stretched variant of the 787 family, offering greater passenger capacity while retaining the Dreamliner's fuel efficiency and comfort innovations
- Airbus A330-300 - Regional and medium-haul wide-body aircraft serving routes across Asia and Oceania, including regional Southeast Asian routes
- Airbus A321-200 - Narrow-body aircraft used for shorter regional routes within Asia, commonly deployed on the Manila-Taipei sector and other Southeast Asian connections
- Airbus A321neo - New-generation narrow-body aircraft on order to gradually replace the existing A321-200 fleet, offering improved fuel efficiency and lower emissions on regional routes
In addition to its passenger fleet, the airline operates a dedicated fleet of Boeing 777F freighter aircraft for its cargo division. It has held IOSA (IATA Operational Safety Audit) certification continuously since 2005, one of the longest unbroken safety-audit records among Asian carriers, and it consistently ranks among AirlineRatings.com's list of the world's safest airlines.
Top Flight Routes
This airline serves more than 60 destinations worldwide, connecting Asia with Oceania, Europe, and the Americas. From the Philippines, the airline operates a direct daily route between Manila and Taipei, giving Filipino travelers convenient access to Taiwan and, through the Taoyuan hub, onward connections to dozens of cities across the region and beyond.
Direct Route from the Philippines
- Manila to Taipei - the airline's direct daily service between Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL) and Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport (TPE), with a flight time of roughly 2 hours and 30 minutes. This short-haul route is popular with business travelers, holidaymakers exploring Taiwan, and passengers transiting onward to Japan, South Korea, North America, or Europe through Taipei
Popular Connecting Destinations via Taipei
With a connection through Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport, Filipino travelers flying this airline can reach a wide range of destinations across the region and beyond. Some of the most useful connecting routes for Philippine passport holders include:
- Taipei to Tokyo (Narita/Haneda) - one of the airline's busiest routes, connecting to Japan's capital in around 3 hours
- Taipei to Osaka (Kansai) - a popular leisure route for travelers exploring Japan's Kansai region
- Taipei to Seoul (Incheon) - frequent connections to South Korea's capital, useful for travelers combining a Taiwan and Korea itinerary
- Taipei to San Francisco / Los Angeles / New York (JFK) - long-haul transpacific routes serving major gateway cities in North America
- Taipei to London (Heathrow) - connecting onward into Europe via the airline's long-haul network
- Taipei to Vienna - the airline's direct European route, linking Southeast Asia to Central Europe through the Star Alliance hub in Vienna
Other Popular Routes from Manila
If you are exploring flights from Manila to other destinations in Asia, check out these popular routes on Traveloka:
Baggage Allowance and Policies
This airline applies a piece-based baggage system across its entire network, making it straightforward for passengers to understand their entitlements. Below is a summary of the baggage allowance by cabin class.
Cabin Baggage
- Royal Laurel / Premium Laurel / Business Class: 2 pieces, each up to 7 kg (15 lbs), maximum dimensions 23 x 36 x 56 cm (9 x 14 x 22 in) per piece
- Premium Economy / Economy Class: 1 piece, up to 7 kg (15 lbs), maximum dimensions 23 x 36 x 56 cm (9 x 14 x 22 in)
- Personal item (all classes): 1 additional personal item, maximum dimensions 40 x 30 x 10 cm (16 x 12 x 4 in), such as a handbag, laptop bag, or small backpack
Checked Baggage (Free Allowance)
- Royal Laurel / Premium Laurel / Business Class: 2 pieces, each up to 32 kg (70 lbs)
- Premium Economy Class: 2 pieces, each up to 28 kg (62 lbs)
- Economy Class: 2 pieces, each up to 23 kg (50 lbs)
The maximum linear dimensions (length plus width plus height) for each checked piece, including wheels and handles, must not exceed 158 cm (62 in). Luggage exceeding 32 kg per piece must be split into separate bags.
Excess Baggage
If your checked baggage exceeds the free allowance, excess baggage fees will apply and are charged in Philippine Peso (PHP) for tickets issued in the Philippines. The airline offers a prepaid excess baggage option through its official website at a discount compared to paying at the airport counter, so travelers heading home with extra pasalubong or shopping should consider prepaying online before departure. Fees vary by route, zone, and season, so for the most accurate pricing on the Manila-Taipei sector, use the airline's official baggage calculator or check with Traveloka customer support before your trip.
Prohibited and Restricted Items
- Dangerous goods, flammable materials, explosives, and sharp objects are prohibited in both cabin and checked baggage
- Lithium batteries and power banks must be carried in cabin baggage only and kept switched off and safely stored
- Power banks cannot be charged or used while onboard the aircraft
- Compressed gas cylinders are not permitted in either cabin or checked baggage
Check-in Guide
Airport Counter Check-in
Airport counter check-in is available at Ninoy Aquino International Airport and at Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport for all flights on this route. Recommended arrival times are as follows:
- International flights: arrive at least 3 hours before scheduled departure
- Check-in counters close: generally 60 minutes before departure; passengers arriving after this time may not be accepted for check-in
At the counter, staff will verify your travel documents, issue your boarding pass, and tag and accept your checked baggage.
Online Check-in
Online check-in is available through the airline's official website and mobile app, typically opening 48 hours before departure and closing 1 hour before departure for international flights, including the Manila-Taipei route. After completing online check-in, passengers can:
- Download or print their boarding pass
- Proceed directly to the baggage drop counter if carrying checked luggage
- Head straight to immigration and security if traveling with cabin baggage only
Automated Check-in
The airline also offers an automated check-in service for frequent flyers. When activated, check-in is completed automatically 48 hours before the flight, and a confirmation notice is sent to the passenger's registered email address, a convenient option for travelers who prefer a hassle-free airport experience.
Cabin Classes and In-Flight Experience
This carrier is renowned for its premium in-flight experience across all cabin classes. It operates up to four cabin classes depending on the aircraft type deployed.
Royal Laurel Class (Long-Haul Business Class)
Available on Boeing 777-300ER and select Boeing 787 aircraft, Royal Laurel Class is the airline's flagship business class product. Features include:
- Fully lie-flat seats converting into beds of approximately 2 meters in length
- 18-inch HD touchscreen personal monitors running the Star Gallery in-flight entertainment system
- Noise-cancelling headphones
- Multi-course meals paired with premium wines and spirits
- Exclusive amenity kits and upgraded bedding
- Direct aisle access from every seat in the reverse herringbone configuration on the 777-300ER
Premium Laurel Class / Business Class
Found on the Airbus A330-300 and select regional routes, Premium Laurel Class offers a premium business experience with lie-flat or angled-flat seats, personal touchscreens running the Star Gallery entertainment system, and noise-cancelling headphones.
Premium Economy Class
This airline pioneered the Premium Economy concept back in 1992. The modern Premium Economy cabin on the Boeing 787-9 features:
- Extra-wide seats in a 2-3-2 configuration with an industry-leading 42-inch seat pitch
- A cradle motion recline mechanism for comfortable rest without disturbing passengers seated behind
- Personal touchscreen entertainment running the Star Gallery system
- Enhanced meal service with a dedicated Premium Economy menu
- Priority check-in and boarding
Economy Class
Economy Class provides a comfortable travel experience with:
- Personal seatback entertainment screens, size varying by aircraft type, with movies, TV shows, music, and games via the Star Gallery system
- Complimentary meal service on international flights, including on the Manila-Taipei route, with a choice of main courses
- Complimentary alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages
- USB charging ports and power outlets at most seats on 787 and newer 777 configurations
- Pillow and blanket provided on longer flights
In-Flight Meals
This airline is known for its exceptional in-flight dining, with complimentary meals included on all international flights and menus rotating seasonally. Special meals, including halal, vegetarian, vegan, and child meals, along with allergy-specific options, can be pre-ordered at least 24 hours before departure through the airline's website or via Traveloka.
Passenger Policies and Special Services
Traveling with Children and Infants
- Children (2-11 years): require their own seat and ticket, and must be accompanied by an adult aged 18 or above. Child fares may be available on certain routes
- Infants (under 2 years): may travel on an accompanying adult's lap with a reduced infant fare. Bassinets are available on select wide-body aircraft on a first-come, first-served basis for bulkhead seats
- Required documents: a valid passport is required for all children and infants on international flights, including trips to and from the Philippines
- Strollers can be checked at the boarding gate free of charge
Pregnant Passengers
- Before 28 weeks: no medical certificate is required
- 28 to 36 weeks (single pregnancy): a medical information form (MEDIF) must be completed within 10 days prior to departure and submitted no later than 48 hours before the flight
- 32 weeks and beyond (multiple pregnancy): travel is not accepted
- 36 weeks and beyond (single pregnancy): travel is not accepted
Pregnant passengers are advised to carry their prenatal medical records and inform reservation staff of their expected delivery date and whether it is a single or multiple pregnancy.
Passengers Requiring Special Assistance
The airline provides comprehensive assistance for passengers with reduced mobility, visual or hearing impairments, medical conditions, or other special needs:
- Wheelchair assistance from check-in through boarding and disembarkation
- Priority seating arrangements for passengers with limited mobility
- Onboard wheelchairs available on wide-body aircraft
- Acceptance of portable oxygen concentrators (POC) with prior approval
Passengers requiring special assistance or medical equipment onboard should notify the airline at least 48 hours before departure to ensure proper arrangements.
Unaccompanied Minors
- Children under 5 years: must be accompanied by an adult at all times; the unaccompanied minor service is not available for this age group
- Children aged 5-12 years: eligible and required to use the airline's unaccompanied minor (UMNR) service, with staff supervision from the departure gate to arrival, and a designated adult present at both airports
- Teenagers aged 12-18 years: may optionally use the UMNR service upon request
Parents or guardians must complete the UMNR form with local contact details at both departure and arrival points. If the itinerary includes a stopover exceeding 4 hours, arrangements must be made for an authorized person to meet the child at the transit point.
Reschedule, Cancellation, and Refund Policy
Rescheduling Flights
To reschedule a flight on this airline booked through Traveloka:
- Open the Traveloka app or website and navigate to My Booking
- Select the booking you wish to modify
- Choose the reschedule option and select a new available flight
- Pay any applicable fare differences or rescheduling fees in Philippine Peso
Rescheduling fees and conditions depend on your fare type. Flexible fares typically allow changes with lower or waived fees, while promotional and discounted fares may have stricter conditions.
Cancellations and Refunds
Refund eligibility is determined by the fare rules of your ticket:
- Fully refundable fares: cancel and receive a full refund to your original payment method
- Partially refundable fares: a cancellation fee is deducted from the refund amount
- Non-refundable promotional fares: may be eligible for a travel credit or voucher for future bookings, subject to fare conditions
To request a cancellation or refund, visit your booking details on the Traveloka app or website and follow the guided process. Refund processing typically takes 7 to 30 business days depending on the payment method used.
Airline-Initiated Cancellations
If the airline cancels your flight, you are generally entitled to a full refund or rebooking on the next available flight at no additional cost. Traveloka's 24/7 customer support team can assist with rebooking and refund processing in such cases.
Why Book EVA Air Flights on Traveloka
Booking your EVA Air flights through Traveloka gives you access to a range of benefits designed to make your travel planning to Taiwan and beyond seamless and convenient:
- Transparent fare comparison - browse EVA Air fares alongside other airlines flying the Manila-Taipei route and choose the option that fits your budget and schedule
- Easy flight comparison - sort and filter results by price, departure time, flight duration, and number of stops to find the perfect itinerary
- Flexible payment options - pay with GCash, Maya, credit or debit cards, bank transfer, or choose an instalment payment plan for greater flexibility
- Instant e-ticket - receive your booking confirmation and e-ticket immediately via email and the Traveloka app
- 24/7 customer support - Traveloka's support team is available around the clock for booking assistance, changes, and travel queries
- Loyalty rewards - earn Traveloka Points on every booking and access member-exclusive promotions
- All-in-one platform - book flights, hotels, airport transfers, and travel insurance in one place for a complete trip to Taiwan
Tips for Finding Cheap Flights on Traveloka
Use these proven strategies to find great fares when booking EVA Air flights on Traveloka:
- Book early - fares generally trend higher as the departure date approaches, so booking 4 to 8 weeks ahead for the Manila-Taipei route often works in your favor
- Be flexible with dates - use Traveloka's fare calendar to compare prices across different travel dates and spot lower-fare days
- Fly midweek - Tuesday and Wednesday departures tend to see lower demand than weekend flights
- Set Price Alerts - activate Traveloka's Price Alert feature to get notified when EVA Air fares shift on your preferred route
- Check the promotions page - visit Traveloka's flight promotions page regularly for flash sales, seasonal offers, and exclusive promo codes
- Travel during off-peak periods - avoid Holy Week, Christmas, and major Taiwanese holidays such as Lunar New Year for calmer demand
- Bundle your trip - book EVA Air flights together with hotel accommodation on Traveloka to unlock additional bundle savings
- Compare cabin classes - Premium Economy fares on sale can sometimes land close to full-price Economy, giving you a meaningful comfort upgrade for a modest difference
How to Book Flight Tickets on Traveloka
Follow these simple steps to book your EVA Air flight on Traveloka:
- Visit traveloka.com or open the Traveloka app and tap the Flights section
- Enter your departure city (e.g., Manila) and destination (e.g., Taipei), select your travel dates, and specify the number of passengers and preferred cabin class
- Tap the search button to view all available EVA Air flights and other airlines for your route
- Sort results by price, departure time, or duration, and use filters to narrow down your options
- Select your preferred EVA Air flight and review the fare details, baggage allowance, and flight schedule
- Enter passenger details, including full name as shown on passport, date of birth, nationality, passport number, and contact information
- Add optional extras such as additional baggage, seat selection, or travel insurance for extra peace of mind
- Review your complete booking summary, including the total fare, taxes, fees, and any add-ons
- Choose your preferred payment method, such as GCash, Maya, credit or debit card, bank transfer, or an instalment plan, and complete the transaction
- Receive your e-ticket instantly via email and the Traveloka app; save or print it for reference at the airport
With your e-ticket confirmed, you are all set to fly EVA Air from Manila to Taipei and beyond. For any questions or changes to your booking, Traveloka's 24/7 customer support team is just a tap away.