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MANILA, Philippines–Philippine Airlines (PAL) is offering low introductory fares for its nonstop London flights – the fastest route at just 12.5 hours – to allow more customers to experience the flag carrier’s brand of excellent service both on the ground and in the air.
In a statement issued Thursday, PAL said the introductory economy Manila-London-Manila ticket is pegged at $1,052, all-in. The budget economy fare includes the base fare of $472, government taxes $209.90, fuel surcharge $328, travel tax $38 and ticketing service fee $5.
For those who want to experience PAL’s luxurious Business class, round-trip tickets are available for as low as $2,900.
PAL said the introductory fares are on sale until January 14, 2014, while travel period is from November 4, 2013 to May 31, 2014.
Economy passengers are entitled to 20 kilos of free checked-in and seven kilos of hand-carried baggage. Business class travelers are allowed 40 kilos of checked-in baggage.
Fares are inclusive of base fare, fuel surcharge, government taxes, ticketing service fee and Philippine travel tax. Economy tickets cannot be rebooked or refunded. Tickets though may be refunded when application for a British visa is denied. Other restrictions may apply.
Tickets are available at any PAL ticket office throughout Metro Manila, accredited travel agents, the PAL website (philippineairlines.com) or PAL Reservations (02-855-8888).
Last Sept. 17, PAL president Ramon S. Ang was joined by visiting British Minister of State for Trade and Investment Lord Stephen Green of Hurstpierpoint in announcing PAL’s return to London, opening up the fastest travel between the Philippines and UK.
“With the new direct air links, our country is looking at a potential windfall in tourism, trade and investment from Europe,” said the PAL president.
PAL also aims at providing the more than 664,000 Filipinos in Europe with the most convenient travel to return home “via the airline that knows them best,” added Mr. Ang.
The Manila-London service starting November 4, 2013 will use the twin-engine, 370-seater Boeing 777-300ER which is equipped with modern inflight amenities.
The five times a week flights will arrive at Terminal 4 of Heathrow airport, premier gateway to the United Kingdom and the world’s busiest international airport.
Other European destinations soon to be opened by PAL include Amsterdam, Rome and Paris. The flag carrier stopped flying to Europe in 1998.