Philippine Airlines (PAL), the national flag carrier of the Philippines, will become oneworld’s 16th member airline following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) at a press briefing held at the International Air Transport Association’s 82nd Annual General Meeting in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
PAL’s entry is expected to be finalised sometime in 2027 as reported by Simple Flying PAL’s entry will make it the second full member airline based in Southeast Asia, the other being Malaysia Airlines, enabling access to a truly global network of nearly 1,000 destinations across over 170 countries and territories.
“This is a defining and transformative moment for Philippine Airlines,” said PAL Holdings, Inc. President Lucio C. Tan III. “Becoming a member of the oneworld Alliance and strengthening Southeast Asia’s representation within the group significantly brings the Philippines and the region closer to the world like never before. Together with our partners, we will deliver greater choice, consistent journeys, and a world-class travel experience that reflects the warmth of Filipino hospitality.”
Access to global network
“Philippine Airlines’ entry into oneworld supports our long‑term strategic growth and strengthens our connectivity across key markets in the Asia Pacific region,” said Robert Isom, American Airlines Chief Executive Officer and chairman of the oneworld Governing Board. “The airline has a proud heritage and will serve a critical role in our Southeast Asia network.”
Philippine Airlines will further expand oneworld’s global network, adding 31 unique destinations throughout the Philippines and beyond. The airline’s growing international network will support customer demand across Asia, North America, Europe, the Middle East and Australia, complementing existing services currently offered by oneworld members.
“Philippine Airlines is a globally respected carrier with a strong commitment to innovation and customer service that aligns with oneworld’s reputation for delivering a premium experience across the travel journey,” said Ole Orvér, oneworld chief executive officer. “This decision is an endorsement of oneworld, and its global customer offering. We look forward to welcoming Philippine Airlines into the alliance.”
Enhanced benefits
Following its entry into oneworld, members of Philippine Airlines’ Mabuhay Miles programme will enjoy reciprocal opportunities to earn and redeem miles and points across all oneworld member airlines.
The airline’s eligible top tier customers will enjoy access to oneworld Priority benefits and access to more than 700 premium airport lounges, including oneworld’s branded lounges in Amsterdam’s Schiphol and Seoul’s Incheon airports, as well as First Class lounges and check-in areas, a benefit unique to oneworld fliers.
The oneworld alliance currently includes the following member airlines: Alaska Airlines/Hawaiian Airlines, American Airlines, British Airways, Cathay Pacific, Fiji Airways, Finnair, Iberia, Japan Airlines, Malaysia Airlines, Oman Air, Qantas, Qatar Airways, Royal Air Maroc, Royal Jordanian and SriLankan Airlines.
The oneworld alliance is the third-largest alliance in terms of passengers served behind Star Alliance and SkyTeam. It was established in 1999.
