1. Booking & Website/App Experience with Philippine Airlines

Website Booking Process

Booking a flight with Philippine Airlines can be done through their official website. For many users, the experience is smooth and straightforward. The website is intuitive and clean, allowing users to easily navigate through options, choose their desired flight schedules, and select seats. The interface provides filters to refine search results based on time, price, and flight duration.

Philippine Airlines also offers promotions and deals on their website, which is a major plus for those looking to save. Most users report that ticket confirmation is instant, and they receive emails promptly after completing their bookings.

However, some users have expressed frustration with hidden fees or unclear pricing for baggage and seat selection during the booking process. While the ticket price might seem affordable at first glance, the cost of add-ons such as checked luggage, seat selection, and meals can add up, so travelers should ensure they are aware of these extra costs.

Mobile App Experience

The Philippine Airlines mobile app is another way to book flights, manage bookings, and check in online. While the app is functional and includes most of the features found on the website, some passengers report occasional glitches, especially during heavy traffic times or system updates. One notable issue is the occasional freezing of the app or difficulty in completing certain tasks like adding extra baggage or updating booking details.

Despite these issues, the app is still a useful tool for most users, especially for checking flight status, managing reservations, and checking in. The app is available for both iOS and Android users.

2. Check-in Process with Philippine Airlines

Online Check-in

Philippine Airlines offers a smooth online check-in process, which can be done up to 24 hours before the flight. This option is very convenient, allowing passengers to avoid waiting in long lines at the airport. The online system is easy to navigate, and passengers can select their seats, add baggage, and get their boarding pass directly on their mobile phone or as a printed copy.

Airport Check-in Process

When it comes to check-in at the airport, many passengers report mixed experiences. Some customers found the airport check-in counters to be well-staffed and efficient, while others mention longer wait times during peak hours, such as during holidays or busy travel seasons. At some airports, there might be long queues for check-in, especially at busy international terminals.

Self-check-in kiosks are available at most major airports, but not all travelers are comfortable using them, and some kiosks have been reported to be malfunctioning or slow to process information. While these issues can be a minor inconvenience, it’s important to note that the airline’s staff is generally accommodating and available to assist in resolving any issues.

3. Airport Experience for Philippine Airlines

Departure Experience

Philippine Airlines generally provides a pleasant departure experience. Passengers report that the ground staff at major airports such as Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) in Manila are friendly, approachable, and professional. The airline’s dedicated counters are typically easy to find, with clear signage and staff ready to assist with any needs, including information, upgrades, and baggage issues.

However, some passengers have noted that during peak times, the airport could feel crowded, and there may be confusion regarding flight information, boarding gates, or delays. Despite these challenges, the general impression of the service at the airport is positive, and the professionalism of PAL staff tends to mitigate the stress of traveling.

Lounge Facilities

Philippine Airlines offers lounges at key airports, particularly for its business class and frequent flyer customers. The PAL Mabuhay Lounge, for example, provides a relaxing place to wait before your flight. However, reviews of these lounges have been mixed. While some passengers appreciate the comfortable seating and available refreshments, others feel that the lounges could use more space, more seating options, and greater food variety. The lounge experience varies by airport, and some travelers note that the Manila lounge could benefit from a renovation to improve comfort.

4. Punctuality of Philippine Airlines

On-time Performance

Philippine Airlines has built a reputation for generally offering on-time flights, particularly on domestic routes. Most travelers report positive experiences when it comes to timely departures and arrivals, with PAL striving to minimize delays. In the event of a delay, passengers often mention that the airline does a good job of providing updates and keeping travelers informed.

However, like many airlines, delays can sometimes occur, particularly during bad weather or operational issues. There are occasional delays during peak travel periods, such as Christmas or the summer vacation months, which are generally attributed to air traffic congestion or weather conditions. PAL typically communicates delays well, but some passengers feel that there is room for improvement when it comes to mitigating flight disruptions.

5. In-flight Comfort & Cleanliness of Philippine Airlines

Seating Comfort

Philippine Airlines offers a variety of seating options, ranging from economy to premium economy and business class.

• Economy Class: The economy class seating is generally comfortable, but like most airlines, it can feel a bit cramped on long-haul flights. Passengers report average legroom, though it is suitable for short- to medium-haul flights. Some passengers have mentioned that the seats in economy class on older aircraft feel less comfortable compared to newer planes.
• Premium Economy & Business Class: For those traveling in premium economy or business class, reviews are much more favorable. Premium economy features wider seats, more legroom, and enhanced services, making it an attractive option for longer flights. Business class, on the other hand, offers fully reclining seats, better in-flight entertainment, and premium meals, providing a superior flying experience.

Cleanliness

Philippine Airlines generally receives positive reviews regarding cleanliness. The cabins are kept in good condition with regular cleaning between flights. Most passengers report that the aircraft is tidy, and the toilets are regularly cleaned throughout the flight, which adds to the comfort and satisfaction of the journey.

6. In-flight Services of Philippine Airlines

Flight Attendants & Service

Philippine Airlines’ cabin crew is often praised for their professionalism and politeness. Many passengers mention that the flight attendants are courteous and attentive to their needs. The airline has a reputation for providing excellent customer service, especially during long-haul flights.

However, service can sometimes be inconsistent, especially during busy flights. Some travelers report delays in being served food or receiving additional services, but these issues are typically minimal. The quality of service tends to be higher in business and premium economy classes, where passengers experience more personalized attention.

Entertainment & Amenities

In terms of in-flight entertainment, Philippine Airlines offers a wide range of options, including movies, TV shows, and music. However, passengers flying on older planes have noted that the entertainment systems may not be as advanced as those of other international carriers. Newer aircraft, on the other hand, feature modern, touchscreen systems with a more extensive selection of content.

For amenities, the airline provides pillows, blankets, and basic toiletries for long-haul flights. Passengers flying in business and premium economy class are often provided with additional comfort items such as noise-canceling headphones, high-quality snacks, and upgraded meals.

7. Baggage Handling of Philippine Airlines

Checked Baggage

Baggage handling with Philippine Airlines is generally efficient. Most passengers report that their luggage is delivered in a timely manner at the destination airport. Philippine Airlines provides generous baggage allowances, particularly for international flights, and many travelers are satisfied with the ease of checking in their luggage at the airport.

However, there have been occasional reports of delays in baggage delivery, especially on connecting flights or during peak travel periods. Some passengers have also reported lost luggage on rare occasions, but these situations are generally resolved quickly by the airline’s customer service team.

Carry-on Baggage

Carry-on baggage policies are clear, and passengers appreciate the ease with which they can bring a small bag or personal item onboard. The overhead bins have adequate space for most passengers’ carry-ons, but it’s important to check weight and size restrictions beforehand to avoid extra charges or inconvenience.

8. Value for Money of Philippine Airlines

Ticket Prices

Philippine Airlines’ pricing tends to be on par with other full-service carriers, though it is often considered to offer competitive value for both short-haul and long-haul flights. While tickets might be priced slightly higher than budget airlines, they offer more services, including checked baggage, in-flight meals, and entertainment.

Add-ons

When it comes to add-ons like seat selection, additional baggage, or meal upgrades, passengers sometimes feel that PAL’s pricing can become unclear or confusing. However, most customers agree that the airline’s fares are reasonable for the quality of service provided. Business class, in particular, is considered to be a good value for the added comfort and luxury.

9. Overall Experience of Philippine Airlines

General Satisfaction

Overall, Philippine Airlines provides a positive flying experience for most passengers. The combination of friendly service, comfortable seats, and competitive pricing makes it a reliable choice for both leisure and business travelers. While there are areas that could be improved (such as in-flight entertainment on older aircraft or potential delays during peak periods), the airline generally delivers good value for money and high-quality service, especially on long-haul flights.

10. Final Verdict of Philippine Airlines

Final Rating: 4/5

Philippine Airlines stands out for its consistent service quality, courteous staff, and competitive pricing. The airline excels in providing a comfortable, clean, and reliable service, especially for long-haul flights. While there are occasional issues, such as delays during peak times or outdated in-flight entertainment systems on older aircraft, PAL delivers a solid and pleasant flying experience. For anyone traveling to the Philippines or within Asia, Philippine Airlines is a commendable option that provides both quality and affordability.