Philippine Airlines (PAL) has launched its first-ever non-stop flight from Manila to Perth, with the inaugural flight landing at Perth Airport on March 27, 2023. The thrice-weekly service shortens the travel time between Perth and Manila to just seven hours, which can save travelers up to six hours compared to other routes that require a stopover and flight connections.
PAL President and Chief Operating Officer Captain Stanley K. Ng, the airline’s former Airbus Narrowbody Chief Pilot, flew the inaugural flight to Perth as PR-223 aboard the Airbus A321neo aircraft. The Airbus A321neo accommodates 12 passengers in luxurious full-flat Business Class seats and 156 Economy Class passengers for the Perth service. The A321neo cabin has personal inflight entertainment (IFE) screens in each seat, and Wi-Fi will be available onboard.
The new route expands PAL’s footprint in Australia, making the airline the largest operator offering the most routes from the Philippines to this “very important region of the world.” PAL currently offers a total of 21 weekly direct flights between Australia and Manila, including daily flights from Sydney, five weekly from Melbourne, and six weekly from Brisbane.
The airline chief expressed his excitement about welcoming Western Australians aboard their flights, saying, “We are thrilled to welcome Western Australians aboard our flights for the shortest hop to the island wonders of the Philippines, where friendly people, spectacular beaches, natural treasures, a rich history and great shopping opportunities are waiting to be discovered.”
“It is a great privilege to lead the maiden flight to Perth as pilot in command. This milestone journey celebrates the continuing recovery of our airline from the challenges of the pandemic. The flight symbolizes PAL’s determination to grow its network and conquer new markets,” Capt. Ng added.
The nonstop flights to Manila allow for easy connections to Cebu, Davao, and other Philippine business and resort destinations. Travelers from Perth may also fly onward via nonstop PAL flights to the U.S. West Coast, Japan, Hong Kong, and Thailand.
The new Perth-Manila route is expected to bring significant economic benefits to both Western Australia (WA) and the Philippines.
According to Hon. Mark McGowan, Premier of Western Australia, “The new flights will further strengthen WA’s connection with the Philippines, and unlock new business and tourism opportunities within our state.”
On board the inaugural flight were Australian ambassador to the Philippines, Her Excellency Hae Kyong Yu PSM, business and government officials, mining executives heading to Perth, and Philippine media representatives.
Ambassador Yu expressed her excitement about the new direct flight from Manila to Perth, saying, “I am excited about this direct flight from Manila to my hometown of Perth. Visiting this beautiful city has never been more convenient. You’ll be able to enjoy great food and wine, spectacular beaches and landscapes, and gorgeous weather. Perth also offers world-class education and tremendous business opportunities.”
PAL said it will work with WA tourism authorities to promote Perth-bound travelers from the Philippines, North America, and other Asian countries, who will find a wealth of unique adventure and business opportunities in Western Australia.
The flag carrier currently offers a total of 21 weekly direct flights between Australia and Manila, including daily flights from Sydney, five weekly from Melbourne, and six weekly from Brisbane.
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