PAL eyes direct flights to Europe by 2025

MANILA  -Flag carrier Philippine Airlines (PAL) plans to return to Europe by 2025 following the purchase of several jets.

Stanley Ng, president and chief operating officer of the flag carrier, said on Thursday in an event in Pasay they were “actively looking for a destination in Europe.”

“Italy is one of the top countries in mind,” Ng said during an event hosted by Italian Chamber of Commerce in the Philippines.

In December last year, PAL said they were also exploring possible a Manila-Brussels flight, making travels to the west more convenient for passengers.

Brussels Airport Company CEO Arnaud Feist previously said this route would be a “win-win” for both countries.

PAL used to have direct flights to London but were discontinued when the pandemic struck in 2020.

As the airline rebuilds its international network—which now includes China and Australia—the company is also increasing its fleet to service more flights, especially with revenge travel still in full swing.

The carrier recently inked a purchase deal for nine A350-1000s with Airbus, which will be used for long haul services from Manila to the east coast of the United States and Canada.

The order costs over P176.6 billion in total, according to PAL.

It also reactivated a 199-seater A321ceo (current engine option), which is being used for Kalibo-Seoul flights and Seoul-Manila flights.

PAL currently operates an 81-jet fleet.

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