Early this month, flag carrier Philippine Airlines (PAL) announces the turnover of its domestic flights to affiliate airline, PAL Express; and welcomes the arrival of the new flagship aircraft of its single-aisle fleet – Airbus A321-200.
PAL Express (formerly AirPhil Express) takes over majority of the domestic flights while PAL continues flight services to Cebu, Davao and Kalibo. This change marks the expansion of the airlines’ code-sharing agreement with PAL Express. It allows PAL to expand its networks and services and maximize the use of its fleets. This provides customers of the national flag carrier varied choices in flights, destination and schedules; and enables PAL to service more routes.
The arrival of PAL’s A321-200 from Airbus, the Europe-based jet manufacturer, is a sign of new beginnings. The brand new A321-200 is the largest variant of the single aisle A320 class of jets. It can accommodate 199 persons – 12 Business Class seats, 18 Premium Economy seats and 169 Economy seats and cargo. Apart from the aircrafts’ upgraded seats, it is configured to carry more cargo. The new interior design of the aircraft radiates Filipino warmth and hospitality. The A3210-200 will also fly to Bangkok, Hong Kong and Singapore. PAL has acquired 65 aircraft from Airbus – 45 single-aisle A321s and 20 wide-body A330-300s.
The acquisition of new fleet of aircraft is a part of the airlines’ marketing efforts and re-fleeting program. It has also provided PAL a chance to focus more on international flights. Early last month, the European Union (EU) has been lifted the air ban after PAL’s effective compliance to safety regulations. The lift has paved way for PAL, the only registered local airline, to fly again to Europe. Before the year ends, PAL starting flying to EU with Amsterdam, London, Paris and Rome as its primary destinations. This is good news especially to a large number of Filipinos, particularly OFWs, who constantly fly to London. PAL will also provide services to Frankfurt and Madrid. The recently acquired A340-300 aircraft will be used for flights to Europe. Back in 2010, the Philippine carrier was banned from flying to EU due to “significant safety concerns.” Even with all these big changes, PAL continues to service direct flights to primary destinations in the US, particularly Los Angeles and San Francisco.
These significant upgrades and re fleeting modernization from PAL will help increase tourism in the Philippines. The efforts of both airlines and aviation authorities should be acknowledged as it shows their determination in providing the excellent flight services for everyone across the globe.
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