Due to the usual strong demand during summer vacation, Philippine Airlines (PAL) reported total comprehensive income of USD 31.6 million for its peak months April to June 2010. The figure is lower by USD 3.9 million or 11% compared to the same period last year.
Despite encouraging numbers on account of the peak travel season, PAL president and COO Jaime J. Bautista said PAL is bracing for lower passenger volumes during the airline’s ‘lean season’ usually between August to November.
In a filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission, PAL reported revenues of USD 426.7 million for the first quarter of its fiscal year 2010-11, an improvement of USD 99.0 million or 30% over the same period total of USD 327.7 million in 2009.
During the first three months of its current fiscal year, the airline benefited from improvements in passenger traffic as well as cargo, reflecting signs of economic recovery worldwide. Higher yields generated per seat offering also complemented growth in passenger demand.
Total expenses amounted to USD 391.6 million, up by USD 106.1 million or 37% from the same quarter total of USD 285.5 million the previous year. Jet fuel, which continues to be the airline’s biggest operating expense, rose by USD 55 million during the first quarter with fuel prices at an average of USD 100.47 per barrel from USD 70.28 per barrel in 2009. The airline also reported a reduction in “Other Income” by USD 47.5 million to USD 15.4 million for the first three months this year compared with USD 62.9 million for the same period the year before.
Bautista said that while the aviation industry is showing signs of slow recovery, PAL remains focused on continuing efforts to generate more revenues and control costs. Moving forward, he said PAL must “swallow bitter pills” and handle its labor issues with “utmost care” to survive amidst the difficult and cut-throat operating environment.
During its last fiscal year ending March 2010, PAL reported a net comprehensive loss of USD 14.4 million in spite of a USD 35.5 million profit during the first quarter.
Philippine Airlines (PAL) today (19 August 2010) welcomed President Benigno Simeon Aquino’s decision to consider opening the country’s skies to foreign carriers as one of government’s options should the flag carrier and its workers fail to resolve their differences.
“The President’s pronouncement is a wake-up call for both PAL management and its cabin crew union to immediately solve the CBA impasse. We hear the President’s call that we must find solutions to avoid any inconvenience to the riding public,” PAL president Jaime J. Bautista said.
“More than anyone else, PAL wants to put closure to its 2005-2010 CBA with its cabin crew. But like any negotiated CBA, it must take into consideration not only the union’s demands but the airline’s capacity to pay and meet those demands. It’s give and take,” he said.
He added that non-economic benefits such as the retirement age and other peripheral issues can be discussed in the next round of CBA talks which PAL and the Flight Attendants’ and Stewards’ Association (FASAP) “can immediately begin”.
“The important thing is to first close the 2005-2010 CBA, then we can start talking of the new one for 2010-2015,” he said.
On the open skies issue, Bautista said: “Let’s make it clear: PAL is not against open skies. We just want it to be fair, reciprocal and its implementation should be phased-in and calibrated.”
He added that open skies should be viewed in the context of available infrastructure like NAIA’s congested single runway, overburdened terminals and the country’s negative image as a tourist destination.
As he welcomed calls for more relaxed access to the Philippines, he said all airlines with existing capacity rights to Clark, Cebu, Davao and other areas should be encouraged to mount more flights to these areas to decongest Manila and promote nationwide tourism. (end)
The P80-million offer of Philippine Airlines (PAL) to the Flight Attendants’ and Stewards’ Association of the Philippines (FASAP) was a sign of good faith. It was in response to our employees’ need for better pay and in recognition of their valuable contributions to the company.
Despite nearly P15-billion in losses in the last two years, PAL did its best to set aside P80-million in the hope of putting closure to the 2005-2010 CBA negotiations with FASAP. However, it appears that FASAP’s motivation for the CBA is not purely economic. They seek abrogation of CBA provisions on early retirement which they call “unreasonable” and “unjustified”.
A CBA is a contract between labor and management. It is the law governing relations between the two parties. A CBA, therefore, is not a one-sided document. It is signed by the company’s authorized representatives and union board members, ratified by the general union membership, and submitted to the Department of Labor and Employment.
It is therefore surprising that FASAP accuses PAL of foisting upon its members a lopsided CBA that allegedly discriminates and forces its members to retire at an agreed age. All cabin crews who joined PAL after 1996 are well aware of this provision. In short, FASAP is questioning, and seeks abrogation of, a CBA provision that it approved not once, but twice since 1996.
As regards what FASAP calls a “discriminatory” and “unlawful” maternity policy, PAL wants to clarify: the forced leave of absence of pregnant crew members is also in the same CBA FASAP and management approved. The reason for preventing pregnant crew members from flying is simple: it is to promote their personal safety and that of the child they carry.
Besides, a female cabin crew is first and foremost a safety officer. Her job, therefore, is not simply to serve but to ensure passenger safety especially in times of emergency. A crew who is on the family way cannot run, jump or carry heavy loads without putting themselves and their baby at risk. This is the reason for the forced maternity leaves, not the baseless accusation that PAL management discriminates against pregnant crew members.
There were no significant breakthroughs in today’s talks between the management of Philippine Airlines and the Flight Attendants and Stewards Association.
PAL maintained its P80-million offer to the cabin crew union, saying the company cannot give more due to its current financial difficulties.
Management also insisted on limiting talks to the economic aspect of the CBA to put closure to its 2005-2010 CBA with FASAP.
PAL wants the early retirement issue to be discussed during the next CBA covering the years 2010 to 2015. It’s not until 2018, or eight years from now, when the early retirement provision will affect any cabin crew.
Our president and COO, Mr. Jaime Bautista, was unable to attend the conciliation meeting at the National Conciliation and Mediation Board (NCMB). He's not feeling well. PAL was represented by its lawyers and some executives from our Human Resources Department.
On the early retirement age issue, PAL lawyers said the company should not take the blame for a CBA provision that FASAP leaders approved. Officers of the cabin crew union signed the CBA containing the provision setting an early retirement age not only once but three times in the past. They were not forced. They signed it voluntarily.
PAL passengers taking our Airbus A330 aircraft for flights between Manila & Cebu and Manila & Davao can now enjoy extra free baggage allowance of 5 kilos applicable on all fare types.
Valid for travel from 11 to 31 August 2010.
Other existing fare conditions shall strictly apply.
Book and buy through www.philippineairlines.com using MasterCard, VISA credit card or BancNet ATM card. Or, purchase tickets at PAL ticket offices or travel agencies.
You may also call PAL Reservations Cebu (032) 340-0191, Davao (082) 221-5513 and Manila (02) 855-8888.
The Management of Philippine Airlines (PAL) today (August 10, 2010) appealed to its cabin crew to exhaust all peaceful means in resolving differences with the company stressing that it is sincere in addressing their concerns.
“Let's find a peaceful solution to our internal problems for the sake of the flying public,” PAL president and chief operating officer Jaime Bautista said as he urged members of the Flight Attendants and Stewards Association of the Philippines (FASAP) to reconsider threats of filing a notice of strike.
He said negotiations are still ongoing before the National Conciliation and Mediation Board (NCMB) where FASAP members could ventilate their grievances instead of threatening to go on strike, which would not redound to the public’s interest.
The next meeting between PAL management and FASAP officers is scheduled for August 17 before the NCMB.
Focus on negotiations
“We recognize the flight attendants' right to express their concerns, and they can use the negotiating table to do that,” Bautista pointed out.
Bautista said PAL is experiencing financial difficulty hence, it could only offer an P80 million one-time package to FASAP to close their negotiations for the 2005-2010 collective bargaining agreement (CBA).
“PAL was hit hard by the global economic recession and slowdown in travel just like the other airlines around the world. We could not afford at the moment what they are asking, but to show our good faith and sincerity in addressing their concerns, we offered the P80 million one-time package to be divided among FASAP members,” he said.
Retirement age
Bautista said it’s not true that management refuses to discuss the retirement age issue during the mediation talks yesterday at the NCMB. PAL was simply asking that it be included in the next CBA (2010-2015) which we can commence immediately, said Bautista.
“We told them that since the first flight crew to be affected by the 40-year-old retirement rule under the existing CBA is still years from now, we have enough time to discuss it with no one being adversely affected by the said rule,” he stressed.
He said the first crew – assuming she was hired in year 2000 at the age of 22 – will only turn 40 in 2018. Those hired in 1996, on the other hand, will only turn 45 by 2019.
Under the existing CBA, male and female flight attendants who were hired before November 1996 would be retired once they reach 60 and 55 years old, respectively, and those hired from 1996 and beyond would be retired at age 45 for both males and females. Those hired after November 2000, on the other hand, will be retired by the age of 40 for both males and females.
On pilots' return
Meanwhile, PAL said none of the 26 pilots who suddenly left their jobs have returned to their posts even as the airline gave them seven days to come back without sanctions.
"It's apparent that these pilots already have commitments abroad and opted not to return," Bautista said.
He added that the administrative process is ongoing, in line with the Company’s internal rules and regulations. Pilots will be served notices to explain why they continue to fail to report for flight duty. So far, the pilots (26) have been served “notices”, to which they were given the opportunity to respond, he explained.
"Right now, the administrative process is taking its course. But even while this is ongoing, our legal department is studying what cases will be filed in the coming days," Bautista stressed.
Philippine Airlines (PAL) management today offered an P80-million package to its flight attendants and stewards to settle and close their collective bargaining agreement (CBA) for the period 2005-2010.
The offer was made at the resumption of CBA talks between PAL management and officers of the Flight Attendants and Stewards Association of the Philippines (FASAP) at the National Conciliation and Mediation Board (NCMB).
PAL said the “one-time” P80-million package is the only amount it could offer the flight attendants’ and stewards’ union due to the company’s dire fiscal condition. He added it is up to FASAP to determine how it will divide the P80-million among its 1,600 members.
PAL lost almost US$320-million or over P15-billion in the last two fiscal years due to the global economic crisis exacerbated by spikes in fuel prices, downgrade of the Philippines’ aviation safety rating to Category 2 by the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), and the European blacklist of all Philippine carriers.
“We hope FASAP members will understand PAL’s predicament and accept the offer. While we recognize their desire for higher compensation, PAL’s current financial situation will not allow it offer more,” Bautista said.
Meanwhile, PAL management expressed its desire to move discussions on the retirement age issue for the 2010-2015 CBA. It said the priority is to put a closure to the previous CBA which has dragged on for the past three years.
Bautista explained that there is more than enough time to discuss the retirement age provisions and issues.
He explained that a 22-year old flight attendant who was hired by PAL in the year 2000 will only turn 40 in 2018, while those who were 22 when hired by PAL in 1996, will only turn 45 by 2019.
Under the existing CBA, male and female flight attendants who were hired before November 1996 would be retired once they reach 60 and 55 years old, respectively, and those hired from 1996 and beyond would be retired at age 45 for both males and females. Those hired after November 2000, on the other hand, will be retired by the age of 40 for both males and females.
As a sign of good faith, Bautista said PAL management is willing to conduct marathon meetings with FASAP for the 2010-2015 CBA. “The immediate goal now is to put closure to the 2005-2010 CBA, which has become a major source of misunderstanding between management and FASAP,” he said.
Philippine Airlines (PAL) released today (August 7, 2010) a new flight schedule to further optimize operational efficiency as the travel sector enters the ‘lean season’.
The 'lean season' schedule will take effect beginning August 9 up to November 30, 2010.
Based on the list submitted by PAL to the Civil Aeronautics Board (CAB), routes with reduced frequencies include those going to and from Manila and Ozamiz, Dipolog, Puerto Princesa and Cebu. Meanwhile, there will temporarily be no operation between Cebu and Davao. This route will be reinstated during the peak season.
“Capacity rationalization is routinely done in anticipation of lower passenger volume, especially tourists, during the rainy months from August to November. It also coincides with the reduced number of PAL pilots who left for jobs abroad,” PAL president and chief operating officer (COO) Jaime Bautista said.
He said it is during ‘low’ season when airlines normally introduce promotional programs to entice passengers to travel. It’s also the time of year when PAL schedules major maintenance checks on the fleet. PAL launched several promos a few weeks back.
The new flight schedule which will be published in major dailies is also available at the PAL website at www.philippineairlines.com. Passengers may also call 855-8888 for inquiries.
Let our surprise treats perk up your Saturday late night and Sunday early morning!
Selling and Ticketing Period from 12:01 am to 6:00 am, 08 August 2010. Valid only atwww.philippineairlines.com. Limited seats only!
Below are the fares INCLUSIVE of surcharges and estimated taxes. Philippine Travel tax, other airport fees and charges are not included.
Note: Fare amounts are subject to change due to conversion rates.
INTERNATIONAL FLIGHTS
*For travel between Manila and USA, fares do not include USD56.70 U.S. Government Taxes and Fees including the September 11th Security Fee.
**Inclusive of Canadian Navigation surcharge
From MANILA
Travel Dates (Outbound)
Base Fare in USD
Surcharges (YQ) + Est. Taxes
Total (Fare+ YQ+ Est. Taxes) in USD
FIESTA(ECONOMY) CLASS Minimum/Maximum days: Manila to San Francisco - 3 days/3 months Manila to Honolulu - 3days/2months Fare Basis: Manila to San Francisco - EWEBNITE Manila to Honolulu - WWEBNITE
San Francisco
16SEP- 15OCT10
588*
286.70
874.70
Honolulu
01SEP- 15OCT10
368*
266.70
634.70
MABUHAY(BUSINESS) CLASS Minimum/Maximum days: 3 days/6 months Fare Basis: IWEBNITE/ZWEBNITE
Philippine Airlines has beefed up its security at Zamboanga Airport to ensure the safety of its passengers, following last night's suspected suicide bombing outside the airport terminal.
PAL operations at Zamboanga remain normal, with a daily morning and evening flight to/from Manila, using the Airbus A320 aircraft, according to Lolito Galarrita, PAL's branch manager at Zamboanga.
The Zamboanga Aviation Security Group intensified body and baggage searches at the airport while the PAL Security office in Manila alerted all its domestic stations to be extra vigilant.
Security at the NAIA Terminal 2 was also heightened with the deployment of additional explosive detecting dogs (EDDs) of PAL's exclusive K-9 unit.
PAL is extending assistance to the 9th Police Center for Aviation Security (PCAS) of the Philippine National Police (PNP) in their investigation on the deadly Zamboanga bombing that killed one and wounded 23 others.
Galarrita said no PAL passenger was among those killed or wounded. After the explosion, PAL and the Zamboanga PNP immediately secured the arriving passengers and the PAL airplane. After the aircraft departed back for Manila, the passengers who just arrived were moved to the pre-departure area until the whole terminal was cleared of any further security threat.
Police Senior Superintendent Danilo M. Abadiano, chief of the 9th PCAS, identified the lone fatality as Hatanil Harun Yacub, resident of Lantawan, Basilan, who died on the spot just outside the arrival area.
Most of the wounded were rushed to Ciudad Medical Center and Doctors Hospital.
Zamboanga City Mayor Celso Lobregat immediately convened the Crisis Management Committee to investigate the bombing.
Celebrate with us as Asia's first airline soars to greater heights. Enjoy exciting events and discounts all year round as we kick off towards our 70th anniversary in high gear.
LATEST OFFERS
PAL-MASTERCARD “Barkada Flights” Promotion Hang out with your barkada at your favorite destination with the Barkada Flights Promo. Count everyone in... because you're getting ONE SEAT FREE! PAL-MASTERCARD “Soaring Higher" Promotion Purchase e-tickets with your MasterCard and travel to any domestic, regional or international destination within the promo period and earn raffle entries. Double your chances of winning by purchasing at www.philippineairlines.com!
Grand Seat Raffle Travel to your favorite domestic and international destination for FREE by winning this raffle promo. The more you fly, the more you can win. You can win more than once!
Y Flyer Get a cool 10% discounts on your domestic flights by becoming a Mabuhay Miles Y Flyer--the exclusive card for young flyers!
OTHER PROMOS
Shanghai World Expo Tour 2010 A World of Wonders awaits you in Shanghai. See the World Expo 2010 for as low as USD387 per person.
Corporate Sales Special perks and added convenience for our corporate clients courtesy of PAL's Corporate Sales unit. Domestic Fare Discounts We offer special discounts for specific individuals and groups.
PAL-Cebu Hilton Promo Package price includes roundtrip airfare (Economy), hotel accommodations and airport-hotel-airport transfers.
PAL EconoLight Available for sale strictly in the internet.
Special Web Fares All-year-round special fares when you book online.
Regular Buy One Take One Enjoy our buy one take one offers on Mabuhay (Business) class for selected routes. Available for sale at any PAL Ticket office.
PAL Rejects Pilot's resignation; Asks them to return to work
To avert more flight delays and cancellations, the management of Philippine Airlines (PAL) today (01 August 2010) said it rejected the resignation of more than two dozen pilots and gave them seven days to return to work.
In a statement, the flag carrier called on its pilots to respect their existing contracts with PAL and demanded that they immediately return to work or face civil, criminal and administrative charges.
This developed as PAL was again forced to cancel eight (8) flights today owing to the pilot shortage, but most affected passengers were accommodated in merged or succeeding flights. “PAL makes sure that all passengers are attended to,” the airline said as it assured the public that it hopes to get schedules back to normal “within a week.”
The eight cancelled flights include Manila-Cagayan-Manila (PR181/182); Manila-Bacolod-Manila (PR133/134); Manila-Iloilo-Manila (PR147/148); and Manila-Cebu-Manila (PR847/848). Meanwhile, a Manila-Iloilo-Manila flight (PR145/146) that usually departs Manila at 4:20PM was rescheduled to 6:30PM.
“PAL doesn’t want to get in the way of its pilots’ dream of landing better paying jobs abroad, but they have contractual obligations with the company and a moral responsibility to thousands of passengers,” PAL stressed.
In the last few days, PAL was forced to cancel several regional and domestic flights after 13 captains and 12 first officers flying its Airbus A319s and A320s resigned from the flag carrier. They left without giving PAL ample time to train replacements, PAL said.
Recognizing the plight of its passengers, PAL sought public understanding as it adjusts flight schedules and merges some flights. It also intensified the training of more pilots to fill the gap.
“We apologize to our loyal patrons for the inconvenience. We know our passengers missed connecting flights, including important personal and business appointments. But the pilots’ resignation is something we couldn’t prevent. Many of them simply did not show up for work and just handed in their resignation letters. Some of them even owe PAL millions of pesos for the cost of their training,” the flag carrier said.
PAL added that most of the resigned pilots were reportedly ‘pirated’ by other carriers in the Asian region including the Middle East where the pay is allegedly two or three times their current salaries.
“By Philippine standards, an Airbus A320 pilot’s pay at PAL is considered ‘high’. But it’s still no match to the offer of foreign carriers. Our problem is, our competitors abroad seem to prefer PAL pilots because of they were highly-trained by PAL and renowned for their flying skills,” PAL added.
Considered “Mission Critical Skills”, pilots and aircraft mechanics are required by government regulations to give their local employers at least 180 days or six months to find suitable replacements before taking another job abroad.
PAL said it is in talks with various government agencies like the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) and the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) to avert the loss of more pilots to ‘poachers” abroad.
Philippine Airlines today (31 July 2010) apologized to its inconvenienced passengers affected by the disruption of several PAL flights due to inadequate flight deck crew to fly its Airbus A320 airplanes.
The indiscriminate resignation of PAL's A320 pilots for flying jobs abroad whose salaries PAL is unable to match, is in violation of their contracts with PAL as well pertinent government regulations that require resigning pilots to give PAL six months prior notice to be able to train their replacements.
PAL will soon file appropriate charges against pilots who chose not to report for work immediately after submitting resignation letters. Most of the pilots still owe PAL the cost of their aviation school training, which run into millions of pesos per pilot.
PAL is currently adjusting its schedules by merging some flights, upgrading aircraft to a bigger type in order and fielding of management pilots to lessen the inconvenience to affected passengers.
For updates on flight status, passengers may call the PAL hotline at 855-8888.
Ronaldo Solanoy, an aircraft cleaner employed by Excellent Workers Multi-Purpose Cooperative, was rewarded by Philippine Airlines for honesty in the workplace.
While cleaning a PAL A330 airplane that landed recently in Manila from Seoul, Solanoy found a pouch belonging to passenger Jang Kin Sun, containing nearly $10,000.
He turned over the money to his superiors and subsequently to Mr. Jang.
Photo shows PAL director Harry C. Tan (2nd from right) presenting Solanoy a plaque and complimentary PAL ticket in the presence of PAL deputy CEO Henry So Uy (right), PAL president Jaime J. Bautista (2nd from left) and Excellent Workers operations manager Jojo Murao (left).
Simpler Choice of PAL Fares for All Types of Travelers
Philippine Airlines is introducing a new concept of fare groupings in its website, to allow passengers to suit their budget and travel needs.
Called Fare Families, the new fare groupings provide for more flexibility in the passenger’s choice of service- before, during and after the flight.
Each group or Fare Family is differentiated by the service offering- Mabuhay Miles credits, free baggage allowance, and fees and charges for changes in bookings and refund.
For Business class, the fare groups are Mabuhay Premium (unrestricted Business class) and Mabuhay Classic (restricted Business class).
Economy class fares are classified into three, with additional variations depending on the routes:
Fiesta Plus (restricted economy), Fiesta Saver (restricted economy with less benefits) and Fiesta Deal- (restricted economy generally non-refundable, non-rebookable, non-reroutable and with lower free baggage allowance of 15 kilos for regional and domestic routes).
To view the benefits of these new Fare Families, visit PAL’s website atwww.philippineairlines.com beginning August 1, 2010.
MANILA – Close to 40,000 passengers availed of Philippine Airlines’ recent Independence Day seat sales, making them one of the flag carrier’s most successful promotions.
PAL ran a number of discounted-fare promotions in the days leading up to the 112th anniversary of Philippine independence last June 12.
The major promo, dubbed “Fly the Flag,” was a novel series of one-day sales covering 12 domestic and international destinations selected for their historical significance. It drew many thousands of passengers, mostly domestic travelers.
Of the 12 destinations included in the promo, the Manila-Bacolod vice-versa route was by far the most popular, attracting the most bargain seekers. The Cebu route came next, followed by Tagbilaran.
On the international side, Singapore drew the most promo-fare customers followed by Ho Chi Minh City, Sydney and Taipei.
Another PAL promo, called “Proud and Free,” offered similarly deeply discounted fares to 23 international destinations. This one pulled thousands of passengers, mostly bound for Singapore and Hong Kong.
The success of both seat sales has encouraged PAL to develop and launch more promotions in the coming months as the flag carrier continues its year-long “Soaring to 70” marketing campaign.
For details, visit www.philippineairlines.com or call (02) 855-8888 in Manila, (032) 340-0191 in Cebu and (082) 222-0366 in Davao.
MANILA – Philippine Airlines was the leading Philippine carrier, in terms of flights and seat capacity, operating out of Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) for the last two years, the aviation industry’s main data keeper Official Airline Guide (OAG) reports.
In a survey of the top airports in the Asia-Pacific region, OAG data show that NAIA’s four terminals handled 1,859 flights per week in 2009, an increase of 12% over the 1,654 flights per week handled in 2008.
These flights resulted in 309,616 seats per week flown by all airlines using the NAIA complex in 2009 – 11% more than the 278,130 seats per week flown in 2008.
Of this traffic volume, PAL had a market-leading share of 35% of all flights per week and 38% of all seats flown per week at the country’s premier airport in 2009, OAG reports.
Both figures represented increases over the 33% and 37% shares, respectively, that PAL posted in 2008, it added.
In contrast, PAL’s main local competitor was a far second in both categories. The budget airline managed only a 32% share in flights per week and 28% in seats per week in 2009, according to OAG.
For 2008, the corresponding figures for the secondary carrier were 28% and 25%, respectively.
The results of the OAG survey are contained in the current issue (second quarter, 2010) of Routes News, a leading industry journal published in the United Kingdom.
Established in 1853, OAG is best known for its extensive airline schedules database. This vast catalogue holds information from more than 900 airlines and 3,500 airports worldwide.
http://philairlines.blogspot.com/2010/06/pal-express-online-booking.html Sun, 20 Jun 2010 16:35:00 +0000 Our PAL Express online booking features a fully automated facility called “Calendar Pricing,” which immediately displays the lowest fare available over a seven-day range – three days before and three days after the planned travel date – thus allowing travelers to decide quickly when it is most convenient and cheapest to fly.
What is Online Booking? Online Booking accepts booking of flights and purchasing tickets online on PAL's domestic and international itineraries. International code shared flights are not available through our online booking facility. Users can immediately check for fares and flight availability without the need to register or login.
What mode of payment can I use to purchase a ticket online? We accept Mastercard/VISA Credit Cards, SmartMoney Debit Card and BancNet ATM card.
I have a BancNet member-bank cash card, can I use this to transact through your website? Yes, BancNet member banks’ cash cards may be used to make online purchases. However, you may use your BancNet ATM Card to pay for domestic ticket only. Please click FAQ BancNet for more information.
Do you accept a Debit Card when booking and buying tickets online? Yes, debit cards bearing the Mastercard and VISA logos designed for internet/online transactions may be accepted online. Some debit cards intended for POS (Point of Sale) transaction cannot be used online. Please check with your card issuer before using your debit card online. What is a Virtual Credit Card? The Virtual Credit Card works in the same way as regular credit cards but there is no physical card exists. Only the account number and expiry date are the available information.
Do you accept Virtual Credit Card? No. PAL requires the presentation of the physical credit card for verification purposes.
What is the EconoLight class? The PAL EconoLight Class is a product of PAL offered in all its regular domestic flights and selected international destinations. Priced lower than regular Economy Fiesta Class targeted to the budget-conscious segment of the travelling market.
How many passengers can I book online? You can book up to maximum seven passengers (adults and children included) per transaction. If there are more passengers travelling together, book the remaining passengers after the completion of booking for the first seven passengers.
Do I need to register before booking and buying online? No, you can book online without the need to register or login.
I encountered problems when I booked online. My repeated efforts to check the fares have failed. I cannot get past the flight availability page. What will I do? Our Online Booking facility will function best using Internet Explorer v5.0 and higher. We strongly recommend that you upgrade your browser or use a PC that has Internet Explorer 5.0 or higher. To upgrade your browser, click on the link below. Download Internet Explorer v5.0 or higher
Can I book for today’s flight? No. You can book for flights departing 24 hours to 10 months from now.
I want to book flight and purchase ticket for another person. Can I do it online? Yes, you can book flight and buy a ticket for another person from our website. Our online booking facility does not require the credit card holder to be the passenger or a member of the travelling party. IMPORTANT NOTICE To avoid fraudulent transactions and to protect credit card owners, PAL reserves the right to require that the credit card used in purchasing the ticket(s) online be presented at the ticket collection point, upon check-in or in cases of reissuance, rebooking or refund of a ticket.
If the credit card owner is not part of the travelling party and is unable to present the credit card used, PAL also reserves the right to require the presentation of clear photocopies of the front of the credit card and the valid PHOTO ID of the credit card owner at the ticket collection point, upon check-in and in cases of reissuance, rebooking and/or refund.
It shall be the responsibility of the credit card owner to ensure that the passenger(s) comply with the requirement. PAL reserves the right to deny boarding to passenger(s) or refuse to reissue, revalidate, rebook or refund a ticket for failure to comply with foregoing requirements.
Without prejudice to criminal prosecution under Republic Act No. 8484, PAL may cancel a confirmed reservation or may remove from any flight any passenger if PAL has reason to believe that a ticket(s) has been purchased using a fraudulent credit card.
How would I know if I made a successful booking? A confirmation page will be prompted on your screen. You will also receive an e-ticket itinerary receipt at the time of ticket purchase.
My online booking timed out, how can I be sure if my credit card was charged or not? Send an e-mail to onlinebooking@pal.com.ph. Please include the passenger name, itinerary and travel dates information in order for us to validate result of the transaction.
What is a MasterCard Secure Code and a Verified by VISA? MasterCard® SecureCode™ and Verified by VISA are services from MasterCard, VISA and your card issuer that provides added protection when you buy online. This service protects your credit cards against unauthorized use when you shop online. To find out more about MasterCard SecureCode go to www.mastercardbusiness.com/mcbiz and Verified by Visa. Enrolments need to be done directly with your credit card issuers.
What is CVV/CVC? The CVV (Card Verification Value) or CVC (Card Verification Code) is the three-digit number located at the back of the credit card, immediately after the last four digits of the credit card number. CVV/CVC is a new authentication procedure established by credit card companies to further efforts towards reducing fraud for internet transactions.
It consists of requiring a card holder to enter the CVV/CVC number in at transaction time to verify that the card is on hand.The CVV code is a security feature for "card not present" transactions (e.g., Internet transactions), and now appears on most (but not all) major credit and debit cards. This new feature is a three-digit code which provides a cryptographic check of the information embossed on the card. Therefore, the CVV/CVC code is not part of the card number itself.
I tried to book a flight online and once I clicked the pay now button, it errors out with a message saying that credit card verification is not going through. Why is that? The Payment Processing System of the PAL Website uses the 3-D Secure Technology of Mastercard (Mastercard SecureCode) and Visa (Verified by Visa). If the Credit Card Issuer is not enrolled in either of 2 international credit card companies' security program, there is a great possibility the credit cards issued by the Issuer won't be accepted by our automated processing system due to Internet transaction security concerns.
Will I receive an e-ticket itinerary receipt when booking flight and buying a ticket online? Yes. Our internet booking engine is a fully automated online booking and ticketing facility where the Travel Distribution Platform (TDP) accepts bookings, confirms the flight selected, processes credit card used for payment, issues the electronic ticket(s) and sends the Confirmation Summary and Itinerary Receipt to the buyer; all in one go.
How do I make changes to the booking I made online? If you wish to make changes on your booking, visit or call any Philippine Airlines Ticket Office or send an e-mail to onlinebooking@pal.com.ph. Penalties may apply depending on the conditions attached to the fare.
I wish to change the routing of ticket purchased online, what will I do? Please contact any Philippine Airlines Ticket Office for assistance. You can find our ticket offices contact details under "Contact" on our website, http://www.philippineairlines.com. Can I pay in cash or check if I will book and buy online? No. You can only use Mastercard/VISA Credit Cards, SmartMoney Debit Card and BancNet ATM card to transact online.
When will you charge my credit card? Your credit card will be charged as soon as you complete the booking process and finalize your booking by entering your credit card details. Your credit card will also be charged even if you decide to change your booking or wish to apply for a refund.
How will I be refunded for my unused tickets that I bought thru your online booking facility? Please get in touch with a PAL ticket office or send an e-mail to onlinebooking@pal.com.ph requesting to process your refund. The refund will be credited back directly to your credit card account. Not all tickets are refundable. Penalties may apply depending on the conditions attached to the fare.
Is my credit card information secure? Yes. Our website uses the industry standard Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) technology to protect your credit card transaction.
MANILA – Philippine Airlines has been named the official carrier of the prestigious Ironman 70.3 Philippines triathlon event, organizers announced today.
The competition, which is open to Filipino and international triathletes, will be held on August 22, 2010 in the scenic province of Camarines Sur in the Bicol region of Luzon island.
The event is a physically intense, 70.3-mile triathlon race where competitors swim 1.2 miles, bike 56 miles and run 13.1 miles around a demanding course in Camarines Sur, which has gained worldwide attention as the newest sports tourism capital of the Philippines.
The race starts at the Camarines Sur Watersports Complex (CWC), which boasts of the largest wakeboard park in the world, where the athletes dive into the freshwater lagoon and tackle the swim leg.
They then get on their bicycles and pedal through the national highway, where a spectacular view of Mount Isarog awaits them.
After completing the cycling leg, they run a lung-busting half-marathon through several towns towards the provincial capital Naga City, before finishing back at the CWC.
The competition is open to men and women aged at least 18 years from across the globe. Participants compete individually or as part of a relay team comprising three athletes regardless of gender or nationality under a corporate or collegiate set-up.
Last year’s inaugural Ironman 70.3 Philippines event attracted 409 individual participants and 58 relay teams. Twenty-three countries were represented.
Terenzo Bozzone of New Zealand won the “Ironman 70.3 Philippines” title with a time of 3 hours, 51 minutes and 26 seconds, in a close race with Chris McCormack of Australia, who finished less than a minute back.
Lisa Bentley of Canada was the top female finisher with a time of four hours, 24 minutes and 30 seconds, while Noy Jopson was the fastest local competitor with a time of four hours, 38 minutes and 33 seconds.
Philippine Airlines is a long-time supporter of sports tourism. The flag carrier organizes two major golf events every year – the PAL Interclub, considered the national clubs championship of the Philippines, and the Mabuhay Miles Elite Invitational, a tournament for its frequent flyers.
PAL also backs a number of important national and international sports events, and regularly flies Philippine national sports contingents to competitions overseas.
PAL flies daily between Manila and Legazpi, located close to the race venue in Camarines Sur, while sister airline AirPhil Express flies 25 times weekly between Manila and Naga.
PAL FREE TICKET RAFFLE. Philippine Airlines held the first of nine monthly electronic draw dubbed Grand Seat Raffle, giving away more than 1,000 free tickets as part of PAL's year-long countdown to its 70 th anniversary celebration – “Soaring to 70”.
Winners get free tickets on the same route and service class that they bought from PAL.
The first raffle was conducted at the PAL ticket office along Macapagal Ave. in Pasay last May 31.
Photo shows, from left, Antonio Herrera, PAL asst. VP-Passenger Sales; Emilia Braganza, PAL asst. VP-Revenue Management; Chief Fiscal Imelda Argosino of the Civil Aeronautics Board; Enrique Javier, PAL VP-Sales; Miss Philippine Airlines and Bb. Pilipinas 2 nd runner-up Nicolette Henson; and Genaro Velasquez, PAL country manager-Philippines.
Selling and Ticketing Period from 12:01 am to 6:00 am, 25 April 2010. Valid only at www.philippineairlines.com. Limited seats only!
Below are the fares INCLUSIVE of surcharges and estimated taxes. Philippine Travel tax, other airport fees and charges are not included.
*For travel between Manila and USA, estimated taxes include the USD56.70 U.S. government taxes/fees including the September 11th Security Fee.
Note: Fare amounts are subject to change due to conversion rates.
The dates indicated in the "Book this fare" links are suggested travel dates only. You may change based on your preferred travel dates using the left hand search panel. Promo fares are on limited seats only. These fares may not be available in certain dates. Click Here For Details
http://philairlines.blogspot.com/2010/04/choice-seats.html Sat, 24 Apr 2010 19:55:00 +0000 For your comfort and satisfaction, you can get choice seats located at the exit rows or bulk head seats area. These preferred seating may be reserved subject to applicable Choice Economy Seat Surcharge (CESS).
When making your reservation, you may request for a choice seat. If a reservation has already been made, you may likewise request for a choice seat by providing your Booking Reference Number. This service is offered on the following flights, subject to availability and the following rates:
*
USD 50 - USA/Canada/Australia/Saudi Arabia *
USD 20 - Regional (Except Japan flights and Korea flights)
All payments shall be made at the airport upon check-in. However, in compliance with Philippine Civil Air Regulations, confirmation for exit row seats will only be finalized at the airport as the passenger will still be subject to screening by check-in agents to verify whether passenger is able-bodied and/or qualified to be seated on an exit row.
Other Conditions:
* Above fees are on one-way basis. * Available at point of reservations. * For exit row seats, passenger must be physically capable and willing to perform emergency actions, as well as be able to familiarize himself with emergency evacuation techniques outlined on the written safety instructions. Otherwise, PAL reserves the right to release the exit-row previously reserved, to another able-bodied passenger. * For B777 aircraft, the entire row 31 wil not be blocked for CESS. The entire row will be controlled by the airport and will not be offered at point of reservations and ticketing as these seats are reserved for wheelchair passengers. However, such will be offered at the airport when there are no wheelchair passengers, and will be assesed the corresponding CESS. * Choice seats are available on all PAL operated flights except between Japan and Manila and between Tokyo and Cebu (direct flight only); between Manila and Seoul/Pusan and only for economy class passengers regardless of the Reservations Booking Designator (RBD) where they are booked. When passenger routing involves beyond routings e.g. Sydney-Manila-Tokyo, the Sydney to Manila will be assessed the CESS but the Manila to Tokyo will not be assesed. * Only ticketed PNR/s (passenger name record) will be accommodated and will qualify to avail of the CESS. * Airport is authorized to release the choice economy seat 1 hour before Estimated Time of Departure (ETD). On a full flight, airport will apply current procedures. * Airport will issue Official receipt. Note: Payment will not be accepted at the Ticket Offices * CESS is not transferrable. * In cases of rebooking, passenger will need to coordinate with PAL, and will not be automatically be reserved the same seat. Note: Rebooking shall only take place during flight cancellations and disruptions at the airport, and the passenger does not want to push through with his/her flight. * For check thru passengers, CESS shall be collected at check-in at point of origin. * If passenger is bumped off on the connecting flight, he shall be entitled to the outright refund of the CESS for cash payments. For credit card payments, such should be submitted to Refunds Section for refund processing. * No refund for no show at the gate, voluntary changes and cancellation. * Outright refund for aircraft changes for cash payments. For credit card payments, such should be submitted to the Refunds Section for refund processing. * PAL reserves the right to refuse the seating accomodation reserved or purchased and refund CESS accordingly, if a person with disability needs a bulkhead seat. * Due to safety reasons, a person with a disability cannot use the bulkhead seat when the bulkhead row is also an exit row. * PAL reserves the right to deny seating on the exit row should it have any doubt on the passenger’s fitness, without prejudice to refund of the CESS paid.
The following passengers are exempted from the CESS:
1. Adult with infant (first adult only) and children below 12 years old who is part of the traveling party. 2. Mabuhay Million Milers 3. For a person with a disability traveling with a service animal, PAL will provide, as the passenger requests, either a bulkhead seat or a seat other than a bulkhead seat in the same class of service. 4. For a person with a disability with a fused or immobilized leg, PAL will provide a bulkhead seat or other seat that provides greater legroom than other seats, on the same class of service and on the side of an aisle that better accommodate’s the passenger’s disability. 5. Other cases requiring special handling. Selected seats may be reassigned to passengers with certain categories of disability. 6. Non-revenue PAL employees and their qualified dependents.
http://philairlines.blogspot.com/2010/03/pal-soars-to-70th-year-70000-free-seats.html Sat, 13 Mar 2010 19:42:00 +0000 MANILA – Philippine Airlines commences a year-long celebration leading to its 70th anniversary in March 2011 by launching a series of promotional events where up to 70,000 free seats on various PAL flights will be given away throughout the year.
Today, the flag carrier announced the introduction of a grand seat raffle, a major discounted-fare promo, a “Philippines Free” international campaign, and a new loyalty program targeting the youth market. These are initial salvoes of an aggressive marketing campaign that will run over the next 12 months.
The initiatives will be formally unveiled during PAL’s 69th anniversary on Monday, March 15, 2010 at a gala dinner at the Century Park Hotel.
PAL was founded by a group of prominent Filipino industrialists on February 16, 1941. On March 15, 1941, a Beech Model 18 aircraft carrying five passengers took off from Nielson airfield in Makati bound for Baguio – a flight that earned for PAL the distinction of being Asia’s first airline.
Today, PAL is the country’s largest carrier, with a fleet of 41 all-jet aircraft that fly to 44 domestic and international destinations. Two more overseas points, Brisbane and Riyadh, join the network later this month. Last year, PAL carried more than 8.96 million passengers, an increase of 17.1% over the previous year.
“As we count down to our 70th anniversary, we want to share this milestone with people who helped us get there – our passengers and loyal patrons. They deserve credit for steadfastly supporting their airline through both favorable and difficult times,” PAL said.
The grand seat raffle covers all customers who purchase PAL revenue tickets in the Philippines and via PAL’s website, and who travel between March 16 and December 31, 2010.
A total of 16,000 winners will be chosen during nine monthly raffle draws. Prizes include free tickets for routes equivalent to those in tickets bought and flown. On March 15, 2011, PAL’s 70th anniversary, up to 3,000 lucky passengers get to travel for free.
The fares promo, known as the “Anniversary Fare Special,” features generously discounted rates on all domestic PAL routes. A flat rate of P700 on one-way flights between Manila and points in Luzon or the Visayas, and P1,700 to/from Mindanao destinations are offered. International flights are also covered by the promo; fares vary according to route.
Meanwhile, a campaign from 18 international destinations called “Philippines Free,” features free travel within the Philippines. It will be offered to passengers who travel on PAL’s international services during selected periods of the year. The sale period is between March 15 and April 7, 2010.
Another promo benefits passengers celebrating their 70th birthday between March 15 and April 15, 2010. These senior celebrants receive a free domestic ticket when a companion’s ticket is purchased for travel on the same date and route. This promo is valid for travel from May 15 to August 20, 2010.
Finally, an innovative program called the Mabuhay Miles “Y Flyer” is set to take off on Monday, March 15, 2010. With the youth comprising an increasingly active segment of the flying public, PAL has developed a product specifically for them.
The program covers passengers between the ages of two and 21 years. Current Mabuhay Miles members in this age group automatically qualify as Y Flyers. They enjoy a 10% discount off published fares, initially for PAL domestic routes.
In addition to accumulating miles by regularly flying PAL, Y Flyers also earn miles by using partner brands’ products and services. Earned miles can then be redeemed for free PAL tickets.
As an added come-on, PAL will give away 50 tickets to the March 27 “Changing Lives: Timbaland Shock Value II” concert in Manila, which features Justin Timberlake and Jojo.
The free tickets will go to Y Flyers who register as members and purchase tickets on March 16 at selected PAL ticket offices – Makati, Cubao, Manila (Padre Faura), SM Cebu and Davao.
More exciting promotional activities will be announced in the coming weeks and months as PAL gears up for its 70th anniversary next year.
For more details, visit www.philippineairlines.com or call PAL reservations at (02) 855-8888.
New round trip economy promotional fare from Brisbane to Manila for AUD 694 (XBNE14D) exclusive of taxes and surcharges, and taxes that are to be collected at the airport.
Travelling Period: 18 March to 10 April 2010 (for OUTBOUND TRAVEL)
Selling and Ticketing Period: 25 February to 31 March 2010
Valid for round trip travel on Fiesta (economy) class
Minimum stay of 4 days and maximum of 14 days stay
Confirmed reservations are required for all sectors
Rebooking is permitted at a charge of AUD 50 per transaction
Re issuance fee at a charge of AUD 50
Refunds: Before departure- charge AUD250 After departure - Ticket is non-refundable
Child/infant discount Accompanied Child 2-11 years old -75% of the fare Unaccompanied Child 8-11 years old - 100% of the fare Infant under 2 with a seat - 75% of the fare Infant Under 2 without a seat - 10% of the fare
