When Filipinos hear the words Philippine Airlines, many immediately think of the familiar sunburst logo, warm Filipino hospitality and flights connecting families across the country and around the world.
Commonly called PAL, Philippine Airlines is the flag carrier of the Philippines and the country’s only full-service network airline. It operates domestic flights to major cities and island destinations while also connecting the Philippines with countries across Asia, North America, Australia and the Middle East.
But booking a PAL flight involves more than choosing a destination and paying for a ticket. You also need to understand the fare types, baggage allowance, terminal assignment, check-in process, seat options and rebooking conditions.
This complete guide walks you through the important things you need to know before flying with Philippine Airlines.
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What is Philippine Airlines?
Philippine Airlines was founded in 1941 and operated its first flight on March 15 of that year. PAL describes itself as Asia’s first commercial airline, making it one of the region’s most historic aviation companies.
Today, the airline operates scheduled nonstop flights from its main hubs in Manila and Cebu. Its network includes approximately 29 Philippine destinations and 40 destinations across Asia, North America, Australia and the Middle East. PAL also operates selected services from Clark and Davao.
Philippine Airlines quick facts
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Official name | Philippine Airlines, Inc. |
| Common name | PAL |
| Airline code | PR |
| Airline type | Full-service network airline |
| Main hubs | Manila and Cebu |
| Other operating points | Clark and Davao |
| Loyalty programme | Mabuhay Miles |
| Domestic Manila terminal | NAIA Terminal 2 |
| International Manila terminal | NAIA Terminal 1 |
| Online check-in | From 24 hours until one hour before departure |
| Standard carry-on allowance | One bag weighing up to 7 kg |
PAL is often more expensive than a low-cost airline, especially when you compare only the basic ticket price. However, some PAL fares include services that budget airlines may charge separately, such as checked baggage, meals, airport privileges or greater booking flexibility.
The important thing is to compare the total value of the fare, not just the first price that appears on the booking page.
Philippine Airlines versus PAL Express
You may notice that some tickets say “operated by PAL Express” even though you booked through Philippine Airlines.
PAL Express, sometimes written as PALex, operates many domestic and selected regional flights within the PAL network. It uses aircraft such as the Airbus A320 and De Havilland Dash 8, particularly for shorter routes and airports that cannot accommodate PAL’s larger aircraft. PAL Express began commercial operations in 1996 under its former corporate identity.
From a passenger’s perspective, the booking may still appear under the PAL website and carry a PR flight number. However, the aircraft, cabin layout, entertainment and onboard service may differ.
Before booking, look for the words:
Operated by Philippine Airlines
or
Operated by PAL Express
This is especially useful when you want to know whether your flight will use a jet or a smaller turboprop aircraft.
Where does Philippine Airlines fly?
PAL has one of the widest domestic airline networks in the country. Its flights connect Manila, Cebu and other operating points with popular destinations throughout Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao.
Common domestic destinations include:
- Bacolod
- Bohol or Tagbilaran
- Boracay through Caticlan
- Butuan
- Cagayan de Oro
- Cebu
- Davao
- Dumaguete
- General Santos
- Iloilo
- Laoag
- Legazpi or Daraga
- Puerto Princesa
- Siargao
- Tacloban
- Tuguegarao
- Zamboanga
PAL also operates international flights to destinations in Japan, South Korea, China, Taiwan, Southeast Asia, Australia, the Middle East, Canada and the United States. Its long-haul network is particularly useful for travellers going between the Philippines and North America.
Schedules and routes change according to demand, aircraft availability and season. Always check PAL’s latest timetable before making hotel reservations or planning a connecting journey. PAL publishes flight schedules with departure and arrival times shown in the local time of each airport.
Philippine Airlines aircraft
PAL operates several types of aircraft for domestic, regional and long-haul flights.
Its fleet includes aircraft from Airbus, Boeing and De Havilland, such as:
| Aircraft | Common use |
|---|---|
| Airbus A320 | Domestic and short regional flights |
| Airbus A321 | Domestic and regional flights |
| Airbus A330 | Medium- and long-haul international routes |
| Airbus A350-900 | Long-haul international routes |
| Airbus A350-1000 | Flagship long-haul routes |
| Boeing 777-300ER | Long-haul international routes |
| De Havilland Dash 8 | Short domestic and regional routes |
The actual aircraft can change for operational reasons, so the plane shown during booking is not always guaranteed.
PAL introduced its Airbus A350-1000 as its newest flagship long-haul aircraft. The airline received its first two A350-1000s as part of a wider fleet-modernisation programme.
This matters to passengers because the aircraft type can affect:
- Seat width and legroom
- Availability of Premium Economy
- Business Class seat design
- Inflight entertainment
- Wi-Fi availability
- Power outlets and charging ports
- Cabin layout
When booking a long flight, checking the aircraft can help you choose a more comfortable schedule.
Philippine Airlines cabin classes
PAL offers several cabin and fare categories. Not every class is available on every route or aircraft.
Economy Class
Economy is PAL’s standard cabin and is available across most domestic and international services.
Depending on your flight and fare, Economy Class may include:
- A checked-baggage allowance
- A meal or snack
- Inflight entertainment
- Seat selection
- Mabuhay Miles earning
- Rebooking or refund privileges
PAL promotes Economy Class with cabin amenities, meals and complimentary entertainment, but the exact inclusions depend on the aircraft, route and ticket.
A short domestic flight using a smaller aircraft will naturally offer a different experience from a long-haul flight to North America.
Comfort Class
Comfort Class is available on selected domestic flights. It sits between regular Economy and Business Class in PAL’s domestic fare structure.
Passengers generally receive a larger checked-baggage allowance and may receive priority-related benefits depending on the route and ticket.
Comfort Class can be a practical option when Business Class is too expensive but you want more convenience than a basic Economy fare.
Premium Economy
Premium Economy is offered on selected international aircraft and routes.
Compared with standard Economy, passengers may receive:
- Bigger seats
- Greater recline
- Priority airport handling
- Enhanced meals
- Earlier baggage delivery
- Wi-Fi and entertainment on equipped aircraft
PAL also allows eligible Premium Economy passengers to pre-order selected meals up to 72 hours before departure.
Premium Economy can be worth considering on long overnight flights where additional space makes a noticeable difference.
Business Class
Business Class is PAL’s premium cabin.
Depending on the route and aircraft, it may include:
- Dedicated check-in counters
- Priority boarding
- Additional checked baggage
- Mabuhay Lounge access
- Premium meals
- Larger entertainment screens
- More spacious seats
- Fully flat beds on selected long-haul aircraft
PAL describes its Business Class service as including priority check-in, lounge access, concierge-related services and upgraded dining.
The best Business Class experience is usually found on PAL’s newer long-haul aircraft. On shorter domestic services, Business Class may use a reclining seat rather than a fully flat bed.
Understanding PAL fare types
One of the most important parts of booking Philippine Airlines is understanding the fare brand.
For domestic flights, you may see options such as:
- Economy Supersaver
- Economy Saver
- Economy Value
- Economy Flex
- Comfort Class
- Business Value
- Business Flex
The cheapest fare is not always the best deal.
For example, Economy Supersaver may not include checked baggage, while a higher fare may include 20 kg of baggage and better rebooking conditions. Paying slightly more during booking may be cheaper than purchasing baggage and changing the flight later.
Before paying, compare the following:
| Fare feature | What to check |
|---|---|
| Checked baggage | Whether it is included and how many kilograms |
| Seat selection | Free, paid or assigned during check-in |
| Rebooking | Change fee plus possible fare difference |
| Refundability | Refundable, partially refundable or non-refundable |
| Miles earning | Percentage of miles earned |
| Meals | Included or available depending on the route |
| No-show rules | Additional fees if you miss the flight |
PAL states that when fare types with different conditions are combined in one itinerary, the most restrictive condition may apply.
Take your time before choosing. The lowest fare works well when your plans are final and you are travelling lightly. A flexible fare may be better when your schedule could change.
Philippine Airlines baggage allowance
PAL’s baggage rules depend on your route, fare and cabin class.
Never assume that all PAL tickets automatically include checked baggage. The exact allowance should appear on your electronic ticket and booking confirmation.
Carry-on baggage
Passengers are generally allowed one carry-on bag with:
- A maximum weight of 7 kg
- Maximum dimensions of 56 × 36 × 23 cm
A small personal item may also be permitted, such as a handbag, laptop bag or similar item.
Your carry-on should contain important items such as:
- Passport and identification
- Money and bank cards
- Medicines
- Mobile phone and charger
- Laptop or camera
- Jewellery and other valuables
- Essential travel documents
- A change of clothes for long journeys
Do not place money, passports, fragile electronics or essential medication inside checked baggage.
Domestic checked-baggage allowance
PAL’s current domestic free baggage allowance generally follows this structure:
| Domestic fare | Free checked baggage |
|---|---|
| Economy Supersaver | No free checked baggage |
| Economy Saver | 10 kg |
| Economy Value | 20 kg |
| Economy Flex | 20 kg |
| Comfort Class | 25 kg |
| Business Value | 30 kg |
| Business Flex | 35 kg |
These allowances apply to PAL and PAL Express domestic flights, subject to the conditions shown on the ticket and operational restrictions.
Flights involving smaller aircraft or airports with payload limitations may have additional restrictions.
International checked baggage
International baggage rules are more complicated because PAL may use either a weight system or a piece system.
The allowance can depend on:
- Country or region
- Fare brand
- Cabin class
- Operating airline
- Connecting flights
- Ticket issuance rules
Some international tickets may allow one or more checked pieces, while others provide a total weight allowance.
The safest approach is to check the baggage line printed on your ticket. PAL’s official international baggage page also separates allowances by destination region.
Maximum weight per bag
Even when your total allowance is high, an individual bag may still be subject to a maximum weight. Bags weighing more than the permitted per-piece limit may need to be repacked before PAL accepts them.
Packing two reasonably sized bags is often easier than arriving with one extremely heavy suitcase.
Prepaid baggage
You can purchase additional baggage through PAL’s website, mobile app, ticket offices, contact centre and selected travel agencies.
PAL currently allows eligible prepaid-baggage purchases up to four hours before the scheduled departure time, although route and aircraft restrictions may apply.
Buying baggage before arriving at the airport is usually more convenient than paying for excess baggage at the check-in counter.
Restricted items
Some items are prohibited or restricted in checked or carry-on baggage. These may include flammable materials, hazardous chemicals, certain batteries and other dangerous goods.
PAL advises passengers to declare hazardous materials and review its restricted-items rules before travelling.
When travelling with power banks, batteries, medical devices or unusual equipment, check the current airline rules before packing.
How to book a Philippine Airlines flight
You can book PAL flights through:
- The official PAL website
- The PAL mobile app
- PAL ticket offices
- PAL’s reservation hotline
- Authorised travel agencies
- Reputable online travel agencies
Booking directly with the airline often makes it easier to manage changes, baggage and special requests.
Step 1: Enter your route and dates
Choose whether you need a one-way, round-trip or multi-city journey. Make sure you select the correct airport, especially in cities served by more than one airport.
Step 2: Compare the schedule
Do not look only at the cheapest flight.
Check:
- Departure time
- Arrival time
- Total travel time
- Connection length
- Airport terminal
- Operating airline
- Aircraft type
- Baggage allowance
A slightly more expensive nonstop flight may be more practical than a cheaper itinerary with a long connection.
Step 3: Compare fares
Read the fare conditions before selecting a ticket. Pay particular attention to baggage, rebooking and refundability.
Step 4: Enter the passenger’s name correctly
For international travel, enter the name as it appears on the passport.
Avoid using nicknames. A spelling mistake can create problems during check-in and may require a correction or ticket reissuance.
Step 5: Add contact details
Provide an active email address and mobile number. PAL may use these details to send booking confirmations, schedule changes and travel advisories.
Step 6: Add optional services
Depending on eligibility, you may be able to purchase:
- Seat selection
- Additional baggage
- Meal upgrades
- Travel insurance
- A cabin upgrade
- Other myPAL Travel Boost products
PAL groups these optional services under myPAL Travel Boost.
Step 7: Review everything before paying
Double-check the passenger names, dates, airports, fare conditions and baggage allowance.
After payment, save copies of:
- Your electronic ticket
- Booking reference
- Payment receipt
- Fare conditions
- Baggage allowance
- Travel insurance policy, when applicable
PAL may require validation of the payment card in certain circumstances, so the cardholder should review the airline’s payment requirements when someone else pays for the ticket.
How to manage an existing booking
PAL’s Manage Booking facility allows eligible passengers to view or modify parts of their reservation.
Depending on the ticket, you may be able to:
- View your itinerary
- Rebook a flight
- Select or change a seat
- Purchase baggage
- Request a meal
- Add a Mabuhay Miles number
- Request wheelchair assistance
- Purchase an upgrade
- Cancel eligible flights
- Apply for an eligible refund
Available options depend on the ticket rules, route and place of purchase.
Travel-agency bookings may have limited self-service options. You may need to contact the agency that issued your ticket for rebooking or refund assistance.
Keep your booking reference and surname ready when accessing the reservation.
Philippine Airlines seat selection
PAL offers paid and complimentary seat-selection options depending on the fare and passenger.
Available categories may include:
- Regular seats
- Aisle seats
- Forward seats
- Extra-legroom seats
- Emergency-exit seats
- Neighbour-free seating on eligible flights
Some seats have passenger eligibility requirements. Travellers with infants, mobility limitations or certain medical needs may not be permitted to occupy emergency-exit seats.
When travelling with family, selecting seats in advance can reduce the risk of being separated. However, seat assignments can still change because of aircraft substitutions or operational requirements.
Online check-in
PAL online check-in normally opens 24 hours before departure and closes one hour before the flight.
Eligible passengers can check in through the PAL website or mobile app, select an available seat and obtain a boarding pass.
After checking in online, you still need to proceed to the appropriate baggage-drop or document-check counter when required.
Online check-in may not be available for some passengers, including those who:
- Need certain medical or mobility assistance
- Are travelling as unaccompanied minors
- Have bookings requiring payment verification
- Need additional document checks
- Are departing from airports where online check-in is restricted
Even after completing online check-in, arrive early. You must still pass through security, immigration for international travel and boarding-gate procedures.
How early should you arrive at the airport?
PAL currently advises passengers to arrive at least:
- Three hours before a domestic flight
- Four hours before an international flight
International passengers need extra time for document checks, immigration and airport security.
During Christmas, Holy Week, long weekends and other peak periods, consider arriving even earlier.
Remember that arriving at the airport is not the same as being ready to board. You still need time to find the correct entrance, line up at check-in, drop your baggage and walk to the gate.
PAL terminals at NAIA
For Philippine Airlines flights at Manila’s Ninoy Aquino International Airport:
| PAL flight | NAIA terminal |
|---|---|
| Domestic flights | Terminal 2 |
| International flights | Terminal 1 |
PAL’s official terminal information confirms that domestic flights use NAIA Terminal 2 while international flights use NAIA Terminal 1.
Terminal assignments can change, so check your electronic ticket and flight status before leaving home.
This is especially important when someone is dropping you off or when you are connecting between a domestic and international flight.
Meals and inflight entertainment
PAL is a full-service airline, but meal and entertainment availability still depends on the route, aircraft and cabin.
Short domestic flights may offer a light snack or limited service, while longer international flights may include a complete meal and beverage service.
PAL also offers:
- Special meals on eligible flights
- Book-a-Dish for eligible Premium Economy and Business Class passengers
- myPAL Player streaming entertainment on selected aircraft
- Seatback entertainment on equipped aircraft
- Wi-Fi on selected planes and routes
The myPAL Player app should be downloaded before departure when your flight uses wireless streaming entertainment.
Special meals may include options for dietary, religious or medical requirements. Availability varies, so make the request in advance through PAL’s official channels.
Eligible Premium Economy and Business Class passengers may pre-order selected dishes through Manage Booking at least 72 hours before departure.
Mabuhay Miles
Mabuhay Miles is Philippine Airlines’ frequent-flyer programme.
Members can earn miles on eligible PAL and PAL Express flights, selected codeshare services and participating partners. Miles can be redeemed for eligible award flights and other travel options.
To earn miles properly:
- Enter your Mabuhay Miles number when booking.
- Confirm that it appears in your reservation.
- Present your membership information during check-in when necessary.
- Keep your boarding pass and ticket until the miles appear.
PAL says eligible flight miles are generally credited automatically within three to five calendar days when the membership number was included during booking or check-in.
PAL also offers Miles Plus Cash, allowing eligible members to combine miles and money when purchasing a ticket.
Frequent travellers should join before flying rather than waiting until after the journey.
Is Philippine Airlines part of an airline alliance?
In June 2026, Philippine Airlines signed a memorandum of understanding to join the oneworld alliance as its 16th member airline. PAL is currently a member-designate, which means full integration and reciprocal benefits are still being completed.
Once membership is fully implemented, eligible Mabuhay Miles members are expected to receive greater access to partner airlines, lounges, priority services and opportunities to earn or redeem across the alliance.
Until then, do not assume that every oneworld privilege is already available on a PAL ticket. Check the latest membership status before booking based on alliance benefits.
Rebooking, cancellations and refunds
PAL ticket-change and refund rules depend on your fare.
When rebooking, you may need to pay:
- A change or rebooking fee
- The difference between your original fare and the new fare
- A no-show fee when applicable
- Taxes or other charges
A ticket advertised as allowing free rebooking may still require payment of a fare difference.
Refunds are also subject to the ticket’s conditions. Some fares are non-refundable, while others may be refunded after applicable fees are deducted. PAL advises passengers to review the fare rules when requesting a refund.
When your flight is cancelled or significantly changed by the airline, different rules may apply. Review the options provided by PAL and keep records of all messages, receipts and booking changes.
Most importantly, do not simply miss the flight. Cancel or change the reservation before departure when possible because no-show charges may apply.
Travelling with infants, children, senior citizens or passengers with disabilities
PAL accepts requests for various forms of special assistance.
These may include:
- Wheelchair assistance
- Assistance for senior citizens and passengers with disabilities
- Medical clearance
- Infant-related travel arrangements
- Unaccompanied-minor service
- Special meals
- Assistance with mobility devices
PAL generally advises passengers to submit special-assistance requests at least 48 hours before departure. Certain services may require earlier notice, medical documents or additional approval.
For complex medical conditions, the passenger may need to submit a Medical Information Form and receive clearance from PAL’s medical team.
Do not wait until you arrive at the airport to arrange an essential service.
Philippine Airlines contact information
PAL provides assistance through its reservation hotline and official online channels.
Current major contact numbers include:
| Location | Contact number |
|---|---|
| Manila landline | (+632) 8539-0000 |
| Manila landline | (+632) 8855-8888 |
| Philippines mobile | (+63) 919-056-2255 |
| United States and Canada | 1-800-435-9725 |
PAL also provides chat and online assistance through its official website.
Be careful of fake airline websites and social-media accounts. Never send payment details, passwords or identification documents to an unverified page.
Practical tips for flying with PAL
Check what your fare includes
Do not assume that every PAL ticket includes 20 kg of checked baggage. Economy Supersaver domestic fares, for example, may not include free checked baggage.
Purchase baggage before the flight
When you already know that your suitcase will exceed the allowance, prepaid baggage is usually more convenient than settling the charge at the airport.
Add your Mabuhay Miles number early
It is easier to earn miles automatically when the number is already attached to the reservation.
Check the operating carrier
A flight may be operated by PAL, PAL Express or a codeshare airline. The service and baggage rules may differ.
Download the PAL app
The app can help you access your reservation, check in, view updates and manage selected travel extras.
Monitor your flight status
Weather, air-traffic congestion and operational issues can affect schedules. Check your flight before travelling to the airport.
Keep important items in your carry-on
Bring medicine, valuables, documents and at least one change of clothes in your cabin bag, especially when taking a connecting or long-haul flight.
Take screenshots of your booking
Save offline copies of your ticket, booking reference, boarding pass and hotel information. Mobile data or airport Wi-Fi may not always work when you need it.
Read the fare rules before payment
A cheaper ticket may become expensive when you add baggage, seat selection and rebooking fees.
Frequently asked questions about Philippine Airlines
Is Philippine Airlines a budget airline?
No. PAL is a full-service network airline. However, its lowest fare types may have limited inclusions, so you should still check whether baggage, seat selection and flexibility are included.
How much carry-on baggage can I bring?
The standard allowance is one carry-on bag weighing up to 7 kg and measuring no more than 56 × 36 × 23 cm.
Does every PAL ticket include checked baggage?
No. Domestic Economy Supersaver fares may have no free checked baggage. Other domestic fares generally include between 10 kg and 35 kg, depending on the fare and cabin.
Which NAIA terminal does PAL use?
PAL domestic flights use NAIA Terminal 2. PAL international flights use NAIA Terminal 1.
When does PAL online check-in open?
Online check-in generally opens 24 hours before departure and closes one hour before the scheduled flight.
Can I change my PAL booking online?
Many eligible bookings can be changed through Manage Booking. However, availability depends on the ticket, route and booking channel. Travel-agency tickets may need to be handled by the issuing agency.
Does Philippine Airlines provide meals?
Meals or snacks may be offered depending on the flight duration, fare, cabin and aircraft. International long-haul flights generally provide more complete meal service than short domestic flights.
Does PAL have Wi-Fi?
Wi-Fi is available on selected equipped aircraft and routes. Availability and pricing may vary.
Is PAL already a full oneworld member?
PAL was invited to join and became a member-designate in June 2026. Full alliance integration is still being completed, so passengers should verify which benefits are currently active.
Is Philippine Airlines worth flying?
Philippine Airlines is a strong option for passengers who want a traditional airline experience, direct domestic connections and convenient nonstop international services from the Philippines.
Its biggest advantages include:
- A wide Philippine network
- Long-haul nonstop routes
- Multiple cabin choices
- Filipino-style hospitality
- Mabuhay Miles
- Included services on selected fares
- A modernising long-haul fleet
However, PAL is not automatically the best choice for every trip. Prices, aircraft, schedules and inclusions vary significantly.
The smartest approach is to compare PAL with other airlines based on the entire journey. Consider the baggage allowance, airport terminal, total travel time, meals, seat comfort and ticket flexibility—not only the base fare.
Final thoughts
Flying with Philippine Airlines can be straightforward and comfortable when you understand your ticket.
Before confirming your booking, check the fare type, baggage allowance, terminal and change conditions. Add any baggage or seat selection you need, enter your Mabuhay Miles number and complete online check-in as soon as it becomes available.
For domestic flights, plan to arrive around three hours early. For international travel, give yourself at least four hours, especially when departing from Manila during busy periods.
PAL has been connecting Filipinos for more than eight decades. Whether you are flying home to visit family, exploring another Philippine destination or taking a long-haul journey overseas, a little preparation can make your Philippine Airlines experience much smoother.
Airline policies, schedules, terminals, fares and baggage allowances may change. Always verify the latest information on your ticket and through Philippine Airlines’ official channels before travelling.
