Philippine Airlines

As the flag carrier of the Philippines and the first commercial airline in Asia, Philippine Airlines (PAL) holds a distinguished place in aviation history. Known globally for its trademark "Heart of the Filipino" service, the airline treats every passenger to a warm and welcoming experience that reflects the country's legendary hospitality. Connecting the diverse islands of the archipelago to the rest of the world, PAL combines traditional care with modern efficiency to ensure a comfortable journey. Whether flying across the Pacific or regionally within Asia, travelers choose this airline for its reliable full-service offerings and extensive network.

History and Network
Founded in 1941, Philippine Airlines is the oldest airline in Asia still operating under its original name. Over the decades, it has expanded its footprint significantly, serving as a primary gateway between Asia, North America, Oceania, and the Middle East. The airline plays a crucial role in connecting global travelers to the Philippines, with high-frequency routes such as the service between Dubai and Manila catering to both tourists and returning residents.

Fleet and Safety
The airline operates a mixed fleet of modern aircraft designed to suit various route lengths and passenger needs. This includes Boeing 777-300ERs and Airbus A350-900s for long-haul transpacific and European flights, offering lie-flat Business Class seats and spacious Economy cabins. For regional and domestic hops, the carrier utilizes efficient Airbus A321neos and A320s. Safety is a paramount core value, with the airline adhering to strict international maintenance standards and maintaining IOSA certification (IATA Operational Safety Audit).

Service and Achievements
Philippine Airlines strives to be a five-star carrier, a mission underscored by its achievement of a 4-Star Airline rating from Skytrax. The company’s philosophy, "Buong Puso" (Wholeheartedly), drives its commitment to customer satisfaction. Passengers enjoy complimentary meals, baggage allowances, and inflight entertainment on most flights. The airline has also been recognized for being one of the "World's Most Improved Airlines," reflecting its continuous efforts to upgrade cabins, lounges, and service protocols.

Travelers in the United Arab Emirates can easily connect with Philippine Airlines through both digital platforms and dedicated local representation. Whether you are managing a booking to Manila or inquiring about flight schedules from Dubai, the airline ensures that assistance is accessible and reliable.

Key Contact Channels

• Official Website: The airline's website, www.philippineairlines.com, is the primary resource for booking flights, checking status, and managing itineraries online.
• Mobile App: Passengers can download the official application to handle check-ins and view flight updates conveniently from their mobile devices.
• Global Support: For 24/7 assistance, the global reservations hotline is available to handle urgent inquiries and concerns outside of standard local office hours.

Local Offices in the UAE

Philippine Airlines acts through its General Sales Agent, Dnata, to provide on-the-ground support in the region. Travelers can visit these locations for ticketing and reservations assistance:

• Sheikh Zayed Road Branch: Located within the Dnata Travel Center on Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai.
• Deira Branch: Situated at the Dnata Travel Center Ticket Office near the Clock Tower Roundabout in Deira.
• Airport Counter: Available at Dubai International Airport, Terminal 1, for immediate assistance regarding departures.

Planning your luggage is a crucial part of any trip, and Philippine Airlines (PAL) offers generous baggage policies designed to accommodate the needs of modern travelers. Whether you are flying light for a quick getaway or packing heavy for a long-haul flight from Dubai to Manila, understanding the specific allowances for your ticket class will ensure a seamless check-in experience.

Carry-on Baggage Allowances

Regardless of your travel class, Philippine Airlines permits every passenger to bring essential items on board. The carry-on policy is designed to ensure safety and comfort within the cabin.

• Free Allowance: Each passenger is allowed one piece of carry-on luggage with a maximum weight of 7 kg (15 lbs).
• Dimensions: The linear dimensions (length + width + height) must not exceed 115 cm (45 in), typically measuring up to 56cm x 36cm x 23cm. It must fit securely in the overhead bin or under the passenger seat in front of you.
• Personal Item: In addition to the main carry-on bag, you may bring one small personal item free of charge. This includes items such as a laptop with its case, a small handbag, a coat, or a camera bag.

Checked Baggage Limits

The checked baggage allowance on Philippine Airlines varies significantly depending on your route and ticket class. PAL generally uses two systems: the Weight Concept (common for regional flights within Asia) and the Piece Concept (standard for flights to/from the Middle East, North America, and other long-haul destinations).

• Flights to/from the Middle East (e.g., UAE): Passengers typically enjoy a Piece Concept allowance. Economy Class travelers are often entitled to 2 pieces, each weighing up to 23 kg. Business Class passengers generally receive an allowance of 2 pieces, each weighing up to 32 kg.
• Domestic and Regional Flights: For flights purely within the Philippines or to nearby Asian destinations, the Weight Concept usually applies. Allowances range from 20 kg to 35 kg for Economy and up to 40 kg for Business Class, depending on the fare brand (e.g., Economy Saver, Value, or Flex).

Note: Always check your specific ticket or e-ticket confirmation for the exact baggage allowance assigned to your booking, as promotional fares may differ.

Excess Baggage Fees

If your luggage exceeds the free baggage allowance, excess baggage fees will apply. These fees can be charged per kilogram (under the Weight Concept) or per piece (under the Piece Concept). To save money, it is highly recommended to purchase Pre-paid Baggage online via the Philippine Airlines website or mobile app before your flight. Pre-paid rates are significantly lower than the standard fees charged at the airport check-in counter.

Special Items

Philippine Airlines understands that some adventures require special gear. Here is how the airline handles non-standard items:

• Sports Equipment: Items like golf clubs, surfboards, and diving gear can typically be checked in. In many cases, these are counted as part of your free baggage allowance. However, if they exceed the allowance or size limits, special handling fees may apply.
• Musical Instruments: Small instruments can be carried on board if they fit within the carry-on dimensions. For larger instruments (like a cello or guitar), you may need to check them as fragile baggage or purchase an extra seat (Cabin Seat Baggage) to secure the item next to you.

Restricted and Prohibited Items

For the safety of all passengers and crew, strict rules apply to what can be packed. Please adhere to these regulations to avoid delays at security:

• Batteries and Power Banks: Spare lithium batteries and power banks generally must be packed in your carry-on luggage. They are strictly prohibited in checked baggage due to fire risks.
• Liquids, Aerosols, and Gels (LAGs): In carry-on bags, liquids must be in containers of 100ml or less, placed in a single, transparent, re-sealable plastic bag. Larger volumes must be packed in checked luggage.
• Prohibited Items: Explosives, flammable solids/liquids, corrosive substances, and compressed gases are forbidden in both carry-on and checked bags.

Tips for Efficient Packing

To make your journey with Philippine Airlines as smooth as possible, consider these practical tips:

• Weigh Before You Go: Use a portable luggage scale at home to ensure your bags are within the weight limits, preventing last-minute repacking at the airport.
• Tag Your Bags: Attach a sturdy luggage tag with your name, phone number, and email address. Placing a copy of your contact details inside the bag is also a smart backup.
• Secure Fragile Items: Wrap breakables in soft clothing and place them in the center of your suitcase for maximum protection.
• Keep Valuables Close: Always keep travel documents, medication, jewelry, and electronics in your carry-on bag, never in your checked luggage.

To ensure a seamless journey for your furry companions, Philippine Airlines (PAL) has established a comprehensive policy prioritizing animal safety and comfort. While the airline welcomes pets, strict regulations apply regarding their transport mode, primarily limiting them to the cargo hold rather than the passenger cabin on international routes.

Transport Options

In cabin (carry-on)

• General Rule: Pets are not permitted in the passenger cabin on Philippine Airlines flights.
• Exceptions: The only exception applies to Service Dogs that are trained to assist passengers with disabilities.
• Requirements for Service Dogs: They must be harnessed, stay at the passenger's feet, and have valid documentation (training certificate, health records).

In cargo hold (checked baggage)

• Eligibility: Cats, dogs, and birds can travel as checked baggage on the same flight as you.
• Weight Limit: The combined weight of the animal and its container must not exceed 32 kg (70 lbs).
• Container Requirements: Crates must be leak-proof, rigid (fiberglass, metal, or hard plastic), and IATA-compliant. The pet must be able to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably.
• Aircraft Restrictions: Some aircraft (like specific A320/A321 models) may not accommodate live animals due to cargo hold temperature limitations. Always verify the aircraft type before booking.

As cargo (for large animals)

• When Required: This option is mandatory if the pet and crate weigh over 32 kg, if the pet is unaccompanied, or if the destination country requires animals to arrive as manifest cargo (common for flights entering the United Arab Emirates).
• Booking: You must book this service through PAL Cargo reservations separate from your passenger ticket.
• Special Handling: Animals travel in a temperature-controlled section of the hold, similar to checked baggage but processed through the cargo terminal.

Required Documentation

• Veterinary Health Certificate: Issued by a licensed veterinarian within a specific timeframe (usually 10-30 days before travel) stating the animal is fit to fly.
• Vaccination Record: Proof of up-to-date vaccinations, specifically Rabies (administered at least 30 days but not more than 1 year prior to travel).
• Import Permits: A valid import permit from the destination country (e.g., Bureau of Animal Industry permit for entry into the Philippines).
• Transit Permits: Required if your itinerary involves layovers in other countries.

Service Costs

• In-cabin: Free for Service Dogs.
• Checked Baggage: Pets are considered excess baggage and are not included in the free baggage allowance. Fees are calculated based on the total weight (pet + crate) or per piece, depending on the route system.
• Cargo: Rates are determined by the dimensional weight of the crate and current air freight charges.
• Note: Fees vary significantly between domestic and international routes (e.g., Dubai to Manila).

Preparation Tips

• Acclimatization: Let your pet get used to the crate weeks before the flight to reduce anxiety.
• Hydration: Attach a secure water dish to the inside of the crate door.
• Feeding: Feed your pet a light meal 2-4 hours before departure; avoid feeding right before the flight to prevent motion sickness.
• Absorbents: Line the bottom of the crate with absorbent bedding or puppy pads.
• Identification: Attach a label with your name, contact number, and flight details to the crate.

Restrictions

• Prohibited Breeds: Philippine Airlines strictly bans all snub-nosed (brachycephalic) dogs due to breathing risks. This includes Pugs, Bulldogs (French and English), Shih Tzus, Boxers, Chow Chows, and similar breeds.
• Age Limit: Puppies and kittens must be at least 12 weeks (3 months) old to travel.
• Health Conditions: Pregnant animals, those that have just given birth (within 48 hours), or sick animals are not accepted.
• Passenger Age: You must be at least 12 years old to check in a pet.

Important: Pet travel regulations are subject to change and heavily depend on local government rules. Always contact Philippine Airlines reservations at least 48 hours before your flight to confirm space availability and verify current requirements for your specific route.

Frequent flyers with Philippine Airlines can enhance their travel experience through Mabuhay Miles, the carrier's dedicated loyalty program. Designed to reward loyal passengers, the program offers opportunities to earn miles not just through flying, but also through a wide network of lifestyle partners, making it easier to reach your next dream holiday or upgrade.

Membership Tiers

Mabuhay Miles features a tiered structure that unlocks progressively valuable privileges as you fly more often. The tiers are designed to recognize your loyalty with practical travel benefits:

• Classic: The entry-level tier allowing members to immediately start earning miles and redeem awards.
• Elite: Offers priority check-in, priority boarding, specialized baggage tags, and additional luggage allowance.
• Premier Elite: Includes access to Mabuhay Lounges, higher tier-based bonus miles, and priority baggage handling.
• Million Miler: The most prestigious level offering lifetime privileges, highest priority handling, and dedicated customer support.

Earning Miles

Accumulating miles is straightforward and flexible, allowing members to grow their balance through various daily activities and travel plans:

• Flights: Earn miles based on the distance flown and the class of service booked on Philippine Airlines.
• Code-share Partners: Collect miles when flying with select airline partners on eligible routes.
• Hotels and Car Rentals: Earn points by booking stays or vehicles with global partner chains.
• Financial Partners: Convert rewards points from partner banks or use co-branded credit cards for everyday spend.
• Shopping and Dining: Accumulate miles through purchases at participating retail and dining establishments.

Redeeming Miles

When it is time to use your hard-earned miles, the program offers flexible redemption options focused on enhancing your journey:

• Award Flights: Redeem miles for free flights to domestic and international destinations across the network.
• Service Class Upgrades: Use miles to upgrade from Economy to Business Class for a more comfortable experience.
• Transfer of Miles: Members can transfer miles to another member's account for a nominal processing fee.
• Sports Plus: Redeem miles to pay for additional sports equipment baggage allowance.

Airline Partnerships

While Philippine Airlines is not currently a member of a major global airline alliance (such as Star Alliance or oneworld), it maintains strong bilateral agreements to extend its reach. Passengers can enjoy connectivity and benefits through code-share partnerships with several major international carriers, including All Nippon Airways (ANA) and Etihad Airways, among others.

How to Join

Becoming a member of Mabuhay Miles is free and simple. Travelers can sign up instantly via the official Philippine Airlines website or the mobile app. Upon registration, members receive a permanent membership number to quote during bookings and check-ins to ensure all miles are captured.

Flying with Philippine Airlines (PAL) is an experience defined by the warmth of the "Heart of the Filipino." Whether you are embarking on a long-haul journey from the Middle East or a quick regional hop within Asia, the airline strives to make the flight itself a memorable part of your vacation. With a focus on traditional hospitality combined with modern comforts, PAL ensures that passengers arrive at their destination feeling refreshed and cared for.

Service Classes

Philippine Airlines offers distinct cabin classes tailored to different travel needs and budgets. While the specific configuration depends on the aircraft type and route, the commitment to passenger comfort remains constant.

• Business Class: The airline's premier offering, often referred to as Mabuhay Class, is designed for luxury and privacy. On long-haul flights utilizing aircraft like the Airbus A350 or Boeing 777, passengers enjoy full-flat beds with direct aisle access, ample storage space, and plush bedding. The experience begins on the ground with exclusive lounge access and priority check-in.
• Premium Economy: Available on selected international aircraft (including many A350 and A330 tri-class fleets), this cabin bridges the gap between Business and Economy. It offers wider seats, generous legroom with a spacious recline, and an upgraded dining experience, making it an excellent choice for travelers seeking extra comfort on flights such as Dubai to Manila.
• Economy Class: PAL’s Economy cabin (Fiesta Class) provides a comfortable standard with ergonomically designed seats featuring adjustable headrests. Even in this tier, passengers are treated to full-service hospitality, including complimentary meals and beverages.

In-Flight Dining

One of the highlights of flying with Philippine Airlines is the culinary experience. The airline takes pride in showcasing the flavors of the Philippines alongside international favorites.

• Gourmet Meals: Business Class passengers can indulge in multi-course meals created in collaboration with renowned chefs, often featuring signature Filipino dishes like Adobo or Kare-Kare alongside Western and Asian options.
• Complimentary Service: Unlike many modern carriers, PAL continues to provide hot meals and snacks in Economy Class at no extra cost.
• Beverages: A wide selection of complimentary drinks, including wines, spirits, beers, and non-alcoholic beverages, is available throughout the flight.
• Dietary Requirements: Special meals (e.g., vegetarian, diabetic, child-friendly, or Halal) can be pre-ordered at least 24 hours before departure to accommodate specific dietary needs.

Entertainment and Connectivity

To keep boredom at bay, the myPAL entertainment system offers a vast library of content. On wide-body aircraft equipped with personal seatback screens, travelers can access hundreds of movies, TV shows, and music albums. On smaller aircraft, the myPAL Player app allows passengers to stream content directly to their own smartphones or tablets. Additionally, myPAL Wi-Fi is available on select international flights, allowing passengers to stay connected with friends and family or catch up on work while in the air.

Special Assistance

Philippine Airlines is dedicated to making travel accessible and convenient for everyone. The airline offers a range of special services to assist passengers with unique requirements:

• Families and Children: Families traveling with infants can request bassinets on long-haul flights (subject to availability). The airline also offers an Unaccompanied Minor service for children traveling alone, ensuring they are supervised from check-in until they meet their guardian at the destination.
• Reduced Mobility: Wheelchair assistance and support for passengers with disabilities are readily available. It is recommended to request these services at the time of booking or at least 48 hours in advance to ensure a seamless airport experience.

Philippine Airlines operates a strategic route network centered around its primary hub in Manila, connecting the Philippines to key global markets in Asia, North America, Oceania, and the Middle East. For travelers based in the United Arab Emirates, the airline provides a vital direct link, facilitating seamless travel for both tourism and business between the two regions.

Securing the best possible journey with Philippine Airlines requires a mix of timing, digital tools, and preparation. Whether you are planning a family reunion or a business trip from Dubai to Manila, these practical tips will help you navigate the booking process and airport experience with ease.

Finding the Best Fares
To unlock the lowest rates, it is generally advisable to book your tickets at least 3 to 4 months in advance, especially for high-demand routes connecting the Middle East to the Philippines. Keep an eye out for the airline's signature promotions, such as the "Ultimate Seat Sale" or anniversary specials in March, which often offer significant discounts. Signing up for the airline's newsletter or following their social media channels is the most effective way to get real-time alerts on flash deals. For maximum savings, try to be flexible with your dates; mid-week flights (Tuesday or Wednesday) are often priced lower than weekend departures.

Smart Check-In and Boarding
Avoid the stress of airport queues by utilizing the Online Check-in service. This feature opens 24 hours before your scheduled departure and closes 1 hour before take-off. By checking in online via the website or mobile app, you can secure your boarding pass early and often use dedicated "Bag Drop" counters at the airport, which are significantly faster than standard check-in lines. This is particularly helpful at busy international hubs.

Seat Selection Advice
Comfort is key on long-haul flights. Philippine Airlines allows passengers to select seats in advance for a fee or free of charge during online check-in, depending on the fare class.

• Choice Seats: If you prefer being one of the first to disembark or need extra knee room, consider purchasing "Forward Seats" or "Extra Legroom" seats.
• Aisle vs. Window: For the long flight across the Indian Ocean, an aisle seat offers the freedom to stretch your legs without disturbing others, while a window seat provides a solid wall to lean against for sleep.

Mobile App and Insurance
Downloading the PAL Mobile App is highly recommended for a seamless travel experience. Beyond booking and check-in, the app allows you to check flight status in real-time, view your Mabuhay Miles balance, and even store your boarding pass digitally. Additionally, do not overlook Travel Insurance. While often optional, purchasing insurance (either through the airline's partner providers during booking or independently) is a crucial safety net. It protects against unforeseen events such as flight cancellations, lost baggage, or medical emergencies abroad, ensuring peace of mind throughout your trip.

Founding and Early Years
The story of Philippine Airlines (PAL) began on February 26, 1941, making it the first and oldest commercial airline in Asia operating under its original name. Founded by a group of prominent industrialists, the airline took to the skies for the first time on March 15, 1941, with a single Beechcraft Model 18 carrying five passengers from Manila to Baguio. This modest beginning marked the dawn of the aviation industry in the Philippines, establishing a vital link across the archipelago that would eventually span the globe.

Crossing Oceans and Frontiers
Following the end of World War II, the airline resumed operations and quickly set its sights on international expansion. In July 1946, PAL achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first Asian airline to cross the Pacific Ocean. Using a chartered Douglas DC-4, the carrier launched a service to California, stopping in Guam, Wake Island, Johnston Atoll, and Honolulu along the way. This pivotal route laid the foundation for the airline's enduring transpacific network. Shortly after, services to Europe commenced, further cementing its status as a pioneer in global connectivity for the region.

The Jet Age and Fleet Evolution
As aviation technology advanced, so did the airline's fleet. The 1960s heralded the arrival of the jet age, with PAL introducing the Douglas DC-8 to shorten travel times on long-haul routes. The 1970s saw the introduction of the iconic Boeing 747, affectionately dubbed the "Love Bus" in later marketing campaigns. These "Jumbo Jets" became synonymous with the airline's growth, allowing for greater passenger capacity and comfort. Over the decades, the fleet has continuously evolved, transitioning from propeller aircraft to modern, fuel-efficient jets like the Boeing 777-300ER and the Airbus A350-900, which are now staples on routes to North America and Europe.

Connecting with the Middle East
Recognizing the growing importance of the Middle East for business and employment, Philippine Airlines launched dedicated services to the region in the late 20th century. This expansion was a strategic move to support the increasing number of Filipinos living and working abroad, as well as to promote tourism. Today, high-frequency routes, such as the direct link between Dubai and Manila, serve as a testament to this enduring commitment, providing a critical bridge between the UAE and the Philippines.

Modern Developments and Innovations
In recent years, Philippine Airlines has embarked on a comprehensive modernization program aimed at elevating the passenger experience to world-class standards. This includes the integration of operations with its subsidiary, PAL Express, to create a seamless domestic and regional network. A major highlight in its modern history was achieving a 4-Star Airline rating from Skytrax in 2018, a validation of its service enhancements. The airline continues to innovate with digital upgrades, improved cabin amenities, and a younger fleet, ensuring it remains a competitive choice for international travelers.