UNITED’S INAUGURAL MANILA FLIGHT!

INSTAGRAM: @PatrickFliesPlanes
It’s a big day! United has officially launched their nonstop service from San Francisco to Manila meaning that for the FIRST TIME EVER, a US carrier will fly direct from the US mainland to the Philippines! Let me know your thoughts below, and I’m excited to share this experience with you all
0:00 Intro
1:13 Polaris Lounge
2:58 Gate Celebration
5:04 Boarding
5:47 The Seat
7:32 Amenities
8:52 Inaugural Freebies!
10:02 Route Demand
11:25 SFO Departure
13:40 IFE
15:18 First Meal Service
15:59 Seat Modes
18:10 Mid Flight Snacks
18:59 Second Meal Service
19:12 NordVPN
22:05 MNL Arrival
23:57 Final Thoughts
26:20 Party Goes Back Home

[@carlvincent12]

This was my first flight, I took 30 years ago back when UAL operated from SFO to MNL via SEL on a 744. Glad to see them back and wishing them great success

[@Zentai21]

United airlines is a no-stranger in Manila. Back in the 1990s they did have a SFO-MNL service via NRT Japan. Those flights uses 747-200/747-400 while competing with Northwest and Philippine Airlines. I'm glad to hear that UA is back strengthening their Manila network as they already have flights from Guam and Palau.

[@jannarkiewicz633]

Back in the 2010's they had that same right :-)

[@JedPQuebral]

True, I work for a company (1991-1995) that services UA for its in-flight catering needs here in MNL...😊

[@nerdyogericgutierrez8601]

@@jannarkiewicz633 No it was back in the 1990's

[@jannarkiewicz633]

@@nerdyogericgutierrez8601 I know I flew the route much later b/c I put on my phone in NRT and a bunch of women swiped right on me on Tinder.

[@md929]

I flew those flights when first class seats were nice and wide. I prefer those seat over today's seats.

[@titob.yotokojr.9337]

I used to take United Airlines flight MNL to SFO via NRT and back. So I'm glad United is back, with a direct flight no less! More success to United!

[@teamviceion6809]

Even though I'm a filipino, I think I'd choose to fly United over Philippine Airlines based on my personal experience and your review. Everything on this flight was well executed, and I hope they stay consistent.💙

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

I’d definitely choose United over PAL as of now, but once they get their new planes on the SFO route I guess we’ll see

[@missleah6204]

I totally agree! I just came back from the Philippines on a month-long tour with my daughter and husband from Atlanta, we did Manila, Boracay, Japan, on a Philippine airline and Air Asia, and back to Manila for 5 more days before going back home to Atlanta, not a good experience on Philippine airlines or Air Asia, the best flight was an American airline from L.A to Atlanta, happy to be home.

[@blushmom]

Same .

[@hotpink432008]

I agree, I had bad experience with Philippine airlines as well. Never again fly with Philippine airlines

[@littlepeanut9099]

Philippine airline bad experience to me never ever is sucked

[@patricktagle1555]

I think United's new SFO-MNL service can potentially be profitable as not only does it compete with PAL for the nonstop MNL-SFO route, but also with the likes of ANA, JAL, Asiana, Korean, Cathay, EVA, etc. in offering connectivity options from MNL to other major U.S. cities via their respective hubs. We Filipinos (myself included) want options whenever we fly to the U.S. to visit our migrant relatives, and likewise, for our "balikbayan" relatives whenever they return from America. The East Asian airlines have been very reliable and will continue to be top players in the market, but the demand is so high that I think United can capture a significant share, if not dominate. I'll try flying United from MNL to ORD via SFO at least once and see how it goes the next time I visit my cousins in the Windy City. As a night owl, I prefer United's schedule and I also prefer flying the long-haul leg first (from MNL). Really excited! And if all goes well, who knows? In a few years time, United might just open a LAX-MNL route as well!

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

All great points. I could see US citizens opting to take United’s route over the other East Asian carriers, at least enough to stay profitable. I do foresee a LAX to Manila flight if this one works well enough for them since LAX and SFO are the 2 top North American destinations from Philippines

[@katuiran]

this is a nice option. I ysually fly JAL or ANA to go back to the US since I love stop overs in Japan. However, I really like this United flight option.

[@lucascalma605]

And let's also see if UA can also capture significant passengers connecting to Florida from SFO where there's a significant amount of Filipinos there too! I'm optimistic about this!

[@Zentai21]

The fact that there are a lot of OFWs and migrants, it's guaranteed to be a profitable route

[@melmartinez9589]

I am so surprised that there is no non-stop service from ORD to either Manila or Cebu. It's mind boggling.

[@graystoke8229]

This route could pull other Manila bound passengers across the US via United's network. If you are in the Midwest, Southern, or East Coast US regions, this maybe a more convenient way to reach the Philippines.

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Totally agree. The SFO connection was a huge reason for this launch!

[@FlightsInAsia]

Not just the US, but also from Canada. Even beyond MNL - which happens to have a strong Star Alliance presence - the schedule allows for connections to BKK with TG and SIN with SQ. If the market is good, won't be surprised if they launch a route from EWR for those from the US East Coast.

[@dic3686]

Oh im excited about this! Id rather have connections within US than other counties,makes transfers a little less fussy.

[@chad_atj]

I just discovered this channel today and you def earned a new subscriber! Professional commentary, crisp audio, pleasing visuals and most importantly a comprehensive review. Nonstop Dan, Josh Cahill, ThePointsGuy UK, and VicarousVoyager have been my go-to aviation channels for the past few years, and I have a feeling yours will be too. Keep up the great work, man!

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

I appreciate it man! Welcome!!

[@ekweseman]

A long time ago, United used to serve Manila from San Francisco via Tokyo when NRT was United's Asian hub. But since then, new longer-range aircraft allowed the airline to bypass Japan to serve other Asian destinations. United now code-shares with ANA allowing United MileagePlus customers to earn miles on ANA flights beyond Tokyo. United also did fly nonstop SFO-MNL in the past but the Asian financial crisis of the late 1990s forced the airline to cut the route.

[@twicejihyo9540]

Bahay kubo at sari sari store. A filipino culture indeed. Mabuhay ang pilipinas!

[@rosariocalosur7802]

Welcome and mabuhay! 👏 Thank you United for servicing MNL My father was a Pan American employee and he only has praises for the generosity of United accommodating us without charging anything unlike with AA

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Thank you! United at least has had the connection to the Philippines from Guam and Palau previously

[@isaacflyaway]

Nice to see another connection between South East Asia and the US! :) Wish UA all the best in this route

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Agreed!

[@MrQwertypoiuyty]

Finally! PAL's plane interiors are showing its age and alternatives like this are more than welcome. I think more people will book more with United now. PAL should be worried!

[@SubaruB4RSK]

I few on the PAL Airbus A380-900 and it seemed fine

[@WRic86]

@@SubaruB4RSK impossible, PAL doesn't have A380

[@SubaruB4RSK]

@@WRic86 opps my bad sorry the A350-900

[@abrahamdsl]

Yeah LMAO. I so remember Singapore Airlines' business class advertisements dating to early to mid-2000s: kzbin.info/www/bejne/sJXHpIp7qdF7q68 16 years ago: kzbin.info/www/bejne/maW1nJR_i9CAbsU&pp=ygUvc2luZ2Fwb3JlIGFpcmxpbmVzIGJ1c2luZXNzIGNsYXNzIGFkdmVydGlzZW1lbnQ%3D

[@biengaspi6379]

@@SubaruB4RSKPAL LAX TO MANILA and SFO TO MANILA uses an outdated interior 777300 for its one of its flight that triple 777 with outdated interior is cheaper pricing than the other refreshed interior triple 777 that costs 200$ more for the other flight daily

[@krflies9840]

I’m rooting for United competing against PAL. It’s night and day. Fun fact: United did fly to Manila via Tokyo Narita until 1998 using their 747s and DC-10s. That route was inherited from Pan Am.

[@redademe]

UA has been serving MNL since the Continental takeover, you just have to get to Guam (via Honolulu or Tokyo).

[@krflies9840]

@@redademe that too

[@JeanClaudeCOCO]

United has the best route network to Asia from the US mainland and or Islands compare to Delta and American Airlines combined. They actually is the most international of US airlines and fly to more countries and Cities outside of the contiguous United States.

[@titob.yotokojr.9337]

​@@redademeThe only problem with that particular route is it takes forever to reach your final destination 😂. I used to take UAL SFO to MNL via NRT and loved it. But this one is even better because it's a direct flight. More power to UAL!

[@redademe]

@@titob.yotokojr.9337 You can't pay me enough to fly international on United no matter how direct the route is, I'm just stating some facts.

[@duedate1]

United flew the route SFO to Taipei ,with stop over to change crew. Continuing on to MNL. I FLEW THIS BACK IN 1991. Used a B747-400. .

[@josephramos3140]

thank you UNITED for making business to Philippines as a Filipino citizen i truly very thankful to your support and love.. full support to your great company..cheers

[@kevin19358]

24:37, Oh that's nice that they have a water salute on United's 1st inaugural non-stop flight from San Francisco to Manila. Hope your flight is good and went well.

[@yvr2002rtw]

It's amazing how quick you can get a video edited and posted right after the flight. Some youtubers can take weeks or months from the time of flight to the posting of the video.

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

I typically do, but this one deserved a bit of priority

[@danekim4275]

Awesome! I sm impressed at how quickly you edited & uploaded your review of the inaugural flight on the same day. Been looking forward to this. Thanks for covering the festivities at SFO and Manila. I wish I were on this flight, but instead I will be flying United to/from Manila in December, and looking forward to duplicating your experience. Unfortunate that United’s Headquarter Big Wigs placed little importance to this Inaugural Launch, but YOU were there, so we’re happy! I hope the single meal tray is gone by the time I fly in Dec & Jan. Thanks, Patrick. You’re the best.

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Thanks dude! Safe travels!

[@GKE-dy5vh]

😊😊😊

[@amadodeguzman7797]

My wife and I will be flying first time. with UA in January.

[@militaryav8r]

I’m impressed with how quickly you got this video posted to KZbin! And it doesn’t feel rushed or anything. Great video!

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

And all it took was finding a quiet(ish) part of MNL for the voiceover 🤷‍♂️🤣 thanks man!

[@hughofIreland]

I am stunned at what a great deal you got on this flight. Another great review!!

[@oarhousepub]

Great review Patrick, as I would prefer flying United over Philippine Airlines from Manila to the West Coast. Any alternative to the monopoly nonstop flights from the Philippines to the US is welcome, as competition can only improve and raise the bar of services amongst all the airlines servicing the route. Also, keep in mind that in about four years, the massive and far more accessible New Manila International Airport being built just north of the city will open - providing more space and less hassle for all incoming international flights and connections to the Philippine capital. It’s good to see United being the first to get a running headstart on the Manila connection and foresee an ever increasing demand for the Manila to US West Coast market.👍🏽

[@josebangate525]

I agree, but Philippine Airlines has been using this outdated and old 777’s cabins for flights from US - MNL, CAN - MNL and vice versa for a long time now and they are long overdue for at least a refurbished cabins. I recently flown with them for a VAN - MNL flight and I was hoping to board at their latest refurbished 777 ones that they released back in 2018 (correct me if I’m wrong) but instead, it was still the old 777 cabins and I was disappointed at that time. At this time, I think United will probably be the best option for going in and out of MNL to US. Unless Philippine Airlines have acquired their latest orders of A350’s which I think it will still take some time before they can finally be flown.

[@Mattock5656]

@josebangate525 we just flown back from Manila to LAX and the entire movie entertainment system wasn't working lol. They definetly need to upgrade everything lol

[@socalbenny4728]

@@Mattock5656 - PAL needs competition to keep them at the top of their game or they'll lose the Filipinos. I planewatch at LAX and the PAL rarely leaves on schedule. Just today their evening flight arriving at LAX was diverted to SFO that leaves the outgoing flight back to MNL cancelled.

[@Mattock5656]

@socalbenny4728 right ya ours left late too. Seems smart that united is competing against them. It's gonna force to upgrade their game. My workmates flew on them before covid and he said there service was great. Lots of food and alcohol. Now they skimp on everything. You can tell they just trying to squeeze every dollar out of the flight.

[@oarhousepub]

Philippine Airlines needs to up their game. Ever since four or five years ago when they received a favorable Skytrax four-star rating, their marketing played that up so much but soon enough the service and delays themselves went the opposite direction down, which is typical of that ‘ningas cogon’ attitude of Filipinos who gloat over being recognized but then fail to follow through the consistency of the service. And the covid pandemic and travel lockdowns only made it worse. I have no sympathy for an airline that simply cannot compete with the best - it’s simply their own fault.

[@smog111000]

Gotta say, your videos have quickly become my favorite travel/flight review videos - this one being no exception!

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Thanks! I appreciate it!

[@gotacallfromvishal]

I INAUGURALLY agree. Hopefully we can all catch an INAUGURAL and then we can upload an INAUGURAL about the INAUGURAL and all the politics that come with INAUGURALness

[@got2castwithb877]

So glad you covered this as I was seriously considering booking this inaugural flight too but just couldn’t make it work. But having lived in the Philippines myself I remember flying United many times back in the day but via Seoul and on the beloved 747SP no less! #mabuhay 🇵🇭

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Sorry you missed it! Safe travels!

[@fredricgrethel1717]

Great job getting this out so quickly! That’s quite a feat. Well done. Thanks!

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

And all it took was a quiet(ish) corner of MNL to complete the voiceover 🤣🤷‍♂️

[@fredricgrethel1717]

@@PatrickSheaAviation that’s really impressive and you had an onward flight. Have an amazing trip! Look forward to the content

[@davidoneal1518]

You never disappoint. Yet another excellent video. I’m glad to hear they are bringing back the more traditional service. I like that much better.

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Totally agree! Thanks man!

[@gotacallfromvishal]

I was so disappointed about the INAUGURAL coverage about the INAUGURAL. An INAUGURAL is a very special moment it's like a child giving birth I am so happy that the process went well for the bisexual who made this INAUGURAL video about the INAUGURAL. I really hope one day I can make an INAUGURAL. What do you think?

[@leslie535]

Bro you have the best and most complete flight review videos. I love that you show the full takeoff roll, which for some reason others don't show. Keep up the great work!

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Thanks! I appreciate it!

[@JettaTorres]

Do you have also straight flight Toronto to Manila thank you 😊

[@244hayrick]

WOW! Thank you for giving me a vicarious ride on a plane I might not be able to try in my lifetime.

[@christinetomelden4337]

Good! More choices and variety!

[@mylesgarcia4625]

Enjoyed this video, Patrick. Unfortunately, I won't be flying to Asia any more. But I did enjoy the United SFO-HKG 747 service in 2000 and 2004; and then I took Cathay to Manila. I thought United would use the Dreamliner for this long flight -- and since they didn't, then I don't feel like I missed out on anything. I think it will be a profitable route for Untied.

[@judithtamayo8335]

I’m a Filipino-American, I will definitely fly United Airlines vs Philippine Airlines aka PAL “Plane Always Late”, & it’s true. I’m a United domestic flier wherever I go. Thank you Patrick 🙂🇺🇸🇵🇭

[@markarca6360]

I hope your luggages are well taken care by the staff. I still remember the broken guitar and the doctor's broken nose, though.

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Sounds like plenty of people share that same opinion. Thanks!

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

@markarca6360 let’s not get it twisted, the doctor was one of their regional carriers and both of those are some old events. Not saying United is perfect, but I don’t think it’s fair to hold 10-15 year old events against a company still

[@syncswim]

Thanks for the coverage! Taking this flight next July. Glad to see it looking so good

[@hoopia8824]

Great review. Looking forward to try this in December. Only tried United once from Manila to Guam. Cheers!

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Awesome! Safe travels!

[@kper5592]

Nice. A new trans-Pacific option

[@NickEaster-wj2bi]

Damn good trip report! I usually only fly Delta or JetBlue, and have yet to try United. But that’ll change for Thanksgiving, and I’m looking forward to it considering their service! ✈️

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Thanks! Safe travels!

[@mrliquid31]

Awesome review Patrick! Gonna have to try this next time I fly stateside. PAL was the always the more "convenient" as it was the only direct carrier to the US for many years. Hopefully this will remain competitive in the long term.

[@JohnNorris1977]

I could seriously listen to you talk all day! Another fantastic report.... You must have felt quite the VIP! 🤩👌

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Thanks man! I definitely felt special…

[@DurandSentinus]

Thank you so much for putting this together! My wife and I are not fans of going to NAIA to get to Cebu, but it appears that this new route from United will make it a more appealing option should we need it. Actually, after finishing the video we are definitely considering trying it out in the future. Thanks again and safe travels!

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Safe travels! At the very least, Terminal 3 at NAIA is far better than T1

[@terryeiss8469]

Lovely to see direct Manila flight, reminds me of Pan American clipper service in the thirties, first US to Manila flight by a US airline.

[@acarr3rd]

Great video! I had several friends on the flight as well, both working FAs and friends from a few FB groups! Well done!

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Awesome! The energy was great! All the FA and pax really enjoyed being there (or at least it seemed that way)…

[@JimboandGhen]

Great video, was wondering who would be the first to review and knew it would be you! Cannot wait to take this same flight in February and also glad there are now other Non-stop options other than Philippines Airlines to Manila.

[@paultravis9216]

Great stuff, Patrick! We get to fly vicariously through you, but without actually being cooped up in a metal tube for ~15 hours. 😀 I'm flying from SFO to Manila in a couple of weeks myself, but on Philippine Airlines, unfortunately. Not a knock against PAL, but this United flight looks pretty sweet! I've flown United a few times on transpacific routes over the past year, and, other than some grumpy flight attendants, they were all decent economy class experiences. Hopefully, this will encourage PAL to up their game and provide a more competitive and appealing product.

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

I would definitely choose United at this point regardless of what cabin class. PAL does have new airplanes arriving however so once those get here we will have to see how it compares. I am just excited for the direct competition

[@NurseMJ986]

PAL will be ahead because of the “check through” feature they have. If you go home to the Phil but live in the Visayas or Mindanao, you just have to check in once and get your boarding pass for all your flights. The luggage is also check through although they require you to pass through “customs” in MLA which is a hassle. I hope they remove this requirement and just have customs check at your final destination. And the food will be always delicious esp. if you prefer Filipino cuisine. But if you like western food then, that’s not an issue. But over all, having a cheaper option is great. PAL has had a monopoly on direct flights for so long. They need to up their game.

[@lanbaode]

Hopefully United keeps the flight permanently. In the recent past most U.S. airlines flying to Manila cut their services as the flights were only serving mostly non-revenue passengers who were airline employees and their families.

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

I’m sure there will be a ton of that. Cargo hopefully can help with the route’s survival as well

[@bobcoradini8610]

Mabuhay United!! Welcome to Manila! Looks like a GREAT route and inaugural flight! United's Polaris is awesome but agree the food and presentation needs improving. . No one likes single tray. . so passé! Glad to hear they will be improving it. Too bad they didn't offer the beef short rib! And as for breakfast, hope they keep it simple. . . bring back the cheese omelet with potatoes & sausage! Pre Covid, United had amazing food & presentation. looking forward to trying this flight in the future.

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Thanks! I look forward to their meal changes upcoming. It’ll be a game changer (assuming they also make some improvements to the food itself!)

[@johndouglas5712]

Excellent review Patrick . Congrats on getting a sponsor . I always look forward to watching

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Thanks a ton!

[@krflies9840]

To add, it doesn’t matter if you fly PAL if you’re connecting to other places outside Manila. You have to go through the arrival hall, and maybe transfer from one terminal to another due to lack of interconnection between terminals.

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

That’s true… unfortunate, but true

[@brentvillanueva15]

Correct. Connecting via MNL is crap. Each terminal is roughly 15 minutes via taxi. Poor layout

[@user-xd7zr5zy8k]

and transfers in NAIA are the worst, one single line with wait time of 1 hour plus

[@krflies9840]

@@brentvillanueva15 worse, it can take at least an hour to get to the other terminal due to traffic

[@redcomusic]

I love that you arrived in Manila in the early morning. It's nice and cool but once it hits 10am....man oh man LOL! I might actually be on a PAL transPac from LAX in November with my mom, which I will film of course. It'd be a 29-year gap since the last time I flew that same route on PAL. - Red

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Oh yes. It’s 98° as I type this… safe travels on that November flight!

[@abrahamdsl]

​@@PatrickSheaAviationyou're in Philippines, we use Celsius here, to hell with that imperialist Fahrenheit! /s 😂

[@GMANN83]

I didn't know this was such a big deal , I recently booked the flight from s f o flying united to manila , Now I'm more excited .

[@user-sn1bv4fw5q]

Been waiting for this!!! Thanks for sharing.

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Thanks! I was doin everything I could to pump this out asap!

[@FlightsInAsia]

For the success of the route, while PR has an advantage of connections at MNL UA has the US domestic and Canada via SFO. Also MNL happens to have a strong Star Alliance presence - UA's flight schedule for the SFO-MNL flights allow for connections at MNL to other cities like BKK with TG or SIN with SQ which there are daytime departures (SQ operates from the same terminal as UA does at MNL). Going back one could get a nice layover in MNL. As for connecting within the Philippines like to CEB or DVO, sure PR offers the through check-in but to even most Filipinos that is not really that important. PR definitely needs to step up its game now.

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

The connection game is strong, although I’m not sure how easy it’ll be to connect throughout the Philippines after this flight

[@FlightsInAsia]

​@@PatrickSheaAviation Since its an AM arrival, its not that big of an issue - Just clear immigration/customs, get the bags, then go to the terminal for the domestic flight. Though PR has a +1 over UA since you just drop the bags to the transfer counter. They extend the 20kg baggage allowance for the domestic flight if booked with the same ticket from say LAX or SFO to CEB via MNL. It does require a separate transfer via bus between terminals which is free. That said, UA is at Terminal 3 so those flying Cebu Pacific within the Philippines and international do not have to go anywhere - just like how your AirAsia flight to Malaysia was also there at T3. From some cities there are some really early AM departures to catch the UA flight bound for SFO, but most Filipinos and anyone do not mind booking a hotel for an overnight - there are some good hotels across Terminal 3 at Resorts World - since there are lots of things to do in the capital city before flying out. If you ever get the chance, you might want to try a trip passing through Cebu since it is in my opinion and with many others one of the better airports in the Philippines.

[@avesraggiana]

I’m in the minority. I flew PAL Business Class pre-COVID, LAX-MNL-LAX and absolutely loved it! The plane was clean, my seat was comfortable, the food was great, and the cabin crew were uniformly very professionally dressed, attractive, and very attentive. These flight attendants couldn’t do enough for me! The only disappointment was during the return to the US. Business Class check-in at MNL was bedlam and confusion, a shambolic ordeal; and the Mabuhay Lounge was a total disappointment. But once on board, it was the same top notch PAL cabin service again! I can’t imagine any of our US flight attendants as gracious and as professional (and as well groomed!), as the PAL cabin staff. But I digress. This is is a great video review! But I would still choose to fly PAL over UAL.

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Interesting! Sounds like a real win for you!

[@Adair9800]

I have flown PAL this year. Their business class seat is definitely inferior to all of the carriers that fly the ultra long haul routes. I hope PAL will make this investment to improve their business class seat. It would certainly be appropriate given the new competition from United. Loved the food on PAL. The porridge as a snack was great. The lounge was acceptable, although seating is not as comfortable as you would expect. I appreciated that I was able to take a shower, but why in the world do they have to be making flight announcements at all hours of the day? Never see that in other lounges. Also had opportunity to fly in front on a fairly new A321 MNL - BKK. Excellent service and food.

[@lalalozer]

Same, nothing beats the warmth of the well-groomed and well-educated PAL cabin crew!

[@BigRuss-ik8vo]

OMG. This was a FANTASTIC video. Thank you Sir. PAL will need to step up their game.

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Thanks! I agree, the competition will be great to have

[@dylanstravelreviews]

Can't wait to watch another amazing video! Thx Patrick

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Thanks!

[@EC4U2C_Studioz]

I have a good feeling this would extend to all United Airlines hubs flying there or very likely the New Manila International Airport in Bulacan just north of Manila (LAX, DEN, IAH, ORD, IAD, and EWR). Philippine Airlines would also want to fly non-stop to the additional United Airlines hub airports although already serving LAX. I think they would also get all of the Delta hub airports flying to Bulacan as well.

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

It’ll be interesting to see if they expand the service or move to the new airport. Nothing yet on those however

[@jeeveskulit]

EWR to New Manila Int'l airport non stop would be great! No need to deal with JFK and NAIA traffic. Manifesting this in the future

[@EC4U2C_Studioz]

@@PatrickSheaAviation I definitely want to see nonstop Washington-Dulles flights to the New Manila International Airport. This should alleviate the JFK-EWR routes to New Manila or NAIA. IAD has room to expand and should include nonstop flights to the Philippines.

[@j134679]

@@jeeveskulit NAIA traffic congestion isn't because of NAIA. It's because of poor urban planning & barely any mass transit network connections. The new airport will suffer the same problem of the government doesn't step up their game. The same has happened whenever new developments pop up, be it BGC or Nuvali. It's not just about building 1 good thing & then resting on your laurels then relying on marketing to make it seem all good, it's about ensuring the new thing is integrated well with the rest of the area. But no, they like building bubbles & then wondering why the traffic problem simply overflows into it as well.

[@EC4U2C_Studioz]

@@j134679With the new airport, there will be 4 parallel runways which should spread out the aviation traffic within the domestic and international flights for the Philippines.

[@ianbrinas2492]

Awesome! you are the very first vlogger to upload a UA trip report on the inaugural nonstop flight to MNL. I believe most pax who bought UA tickets will be roundtrip from USA and/or star alliance partner frequent flyers as most filipino pax originating from Philippines prefer to buy cheaper fare direct or with layover somewhere in East Asia as this is more of a VFR route . Polaris is an excellent hardware business product including their award winning lounge in SFO. PAL as their main competitor is focusing on traffic from other southeast asian cities to connect with a cheaper biz fare. It is not the same level with Polaris but attractive enough for leisure travelers to experience business class long haul service sitting in front of the plane and that is why PAL daily flight are always full as well as the double daily flights from LAX and the ultra long haul nonstop from JFK.

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

PAL does have a large piece of the market, but part of that is because they had a monopoly on North America to Philippines. There’s a chance that changes now with this route going

[@user-ng9rx1su6g]

Thank you for sharing this video! I am taking the same route in December in Business Polaris and look forward to the journey with United.

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Thanks! Safe flight!!

[@nathblanca6280]

I used to work as a travel associate for United Airlines in BPO company here in the Philippines and hopefully direct flight will continue, it will be convenient for all the travellers ❤❤

[@Denusa]

Ten years ago I flew United out of Manila. The route was Manila-Guam-Hawaii-LAX. As a regular but casual traveler I would prefer this new direct route. We fly economy so if it was less than $1500 LAX-MNL roundtrip this would be my first choice. There are other airlines but the downside of them it normally adds at least ten hours each way.

[@edwardcobb8017]

I also have fly Manila via GUM, HNL, ORD and IAH. and flying daily UAL 183 to MNL. 9:50 Terminal 1 Gate 2 and by 11 PM heads back to Guam. UAL 184 the only thing that it's non stop SFO-MNL. and with a stop. SFO-TPE-MNL. so that is 3 united routes. But with partners ANA and EVA more routes to go-to and from MNL.

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Yea, the new nonstop route from the mainland is a big time win. Sounds like a lot of people did that HNL/GUM connection

[@JustinPinedaMedia]

I remember back then Delta offered nonstops to Manila from Detroit. Glad United picked this up! Maybe they can also include LAX and maybe even Chicago-O'Hare nonstops soon.

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

My guess is it’ll be just this for at least a year to monitor loads and also how well Philippines accepts the new service then maybe we see the LAX expansion

[@WRic86]

@@PatrickSheaAviation Isn't there only so much space at mnl for new flights, heard United was lucky to get this one

[@EC4U2C_Studioz]

I'm also going to think every major US airport would fly there once NMIA in Bulacan opens very likely going as far as Atlanta for non-stop as Atlanta is a major Delta hub and this leads to all major United and Delta hub airports flying to the Philippines non-stop.

[@udirtypuppy5174]

I will be traveling in a few weeks to Manila from SFO for the 1st time. So excited. Decades of using Philippines Airlines direct for obvious reasons i finally have hope for a better traveling experience after such a long struggle and so many disappointments.

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Safe travels man! I wish you the best

[@joelfilamor]

Awesome video! ❤❤❤

[@johniii8147]

Great coverage! Thanks. Will be interesting to see if this route works out for UA. It's a notoriously low yield market to MNL( hence your cheap fare). I think they are counting on cargo on this market. Hadn't herd, but glad UA will be upgrading the meal service. It's a MAJOR weakness of thier's.

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Totally agree. The meal service was an Achilles heel of theirs. We did have a ton of cargo so that would make sense

[@ethanpham3187]

I am here in LA and wish that maybe we can get Vietnam airlines like you guys and United can compete that route with their amazing Polaris. Great work on reviewing this!

[@johniii8147]

Wouldn't consider Polaris "amazing" at this point.

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

I’m interested to see how LAX grows to SE Asia. They typically do a better job at attracting the non-US airlines

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

@johniii8147 you wouldn’t?? 🧐 I’d say it’s one of the best products out there right now

[@jlr_]

As a filam who frequently flies from SFO to MNL for work, I'm required to "fly America" so I've always had to take United to Japan or Korea. This flight excites me as my next trip will finally be a direct flight!

[@mice0818]

Great review. It looks so much fun on this Inagural flight. Service looks good. Thanks and Congratulations to United for finally starting this flight ❤ Its long overdue 😊

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

The inaugurals are always fun! Exciting to see this nonstop route finally start up as well

[@renealcid6708]

Thank you for the review! SFO is such a beautiful and convenient airport! I’ve flown United several times in the past and enjoy their service. I have to however say that no other airlines could beat the landings of Philippine Airlines. Really very smooth that you’ll never know that you’ve actually landed! Also, flying out of one of America’s better airports, it will be quite a disappointment to land into one of the worst airports in the world, certainly the worst in Asia!

[@renealcid6708]

Can’t wait to see the new airport currently in construction in Bulacan and hopefully Cavite too!Metro Manila desperately needs a better airport. These airports are very promising because they are being built by the private sector and not the government!

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

I do love SFO but I might be a bit biased…. I will say that my only ever Philippine Airlines flights had pretty smooth landings

[@markdwighttadina7655]

My thoughts on United competing with PAL in the MNL-SFO-MNL route : United is no stranger competiting with PAL as they both dominating the Manila-Guam-Manila route which possibly caused another Philippines-based carrier Cebu Pacific to cease the route as the said airline is a low-cost one unlike PR and UA who are both legacy carriers. The last time UA had a long-haul route in MNL was way back in the 1990s and that was the same route taking over the slot formerly held by the now-defunct Pan Am. Additionally, Delta previously operated flights to MNL via a stopover at NRT in Japan. Hope United's launching flights to the Philippines from Mainland US can be an eye opener for American Airlines to launch flights to Southeast Asia (Especially in the busiest routes like Singapore, Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, and also possibly Manila if Bulacan Airport opens) as they already had presence in East Asia mainly in China, Japan, and South Korea and once operated flights to Hong Kong.

[@aggs1984]

This is a fantastic route as here in YVR-MNL it is only PAL that does direct ( would love to see AC do it at somepoint aka United's Star Alliance sibling), for United the only routes we have I know of is SFO-YVR and LAX-YVR that are direct, this is a route would love to try. and also get to SFO at somepoint

[@Sammyduo214]

hope to be on the next united flight to the US soon :) congratulations united

[@Archduke17]

At one point United was flying to MNL with a stop at KIX. The ugly history is that the Philippine government tried to restrict UA's frequencies from MNL as a protectionist move for PAL. United told them they needed to fly daily for it to be profitable. When UA couldn't get daily, they withdrew. That history coupled with PAL's checkered history, I would only fly PAL as a last resort.

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Good info! I guess it’s a good day to see UA back with daily service 🤷‍♂️

[@tensphreak]

Interesting. I always thought that Filipino UAL employees were taking full advantage of the SFO-NRT-MNL flights that UAL was losing money, so they stopped.

[@abrahamdsl]

When was that, Marcos Senior time?

[@Archduke17]

@@abrahamdsl - No, in the late 1990s.

[@md929]

Fishtail story. Fake news. Lol

[@jimw2566]

I travel to Kuala Lumpur multiple times a year, always booked through United. Here's hoping they will start routing me through Manila or TPE from time to time; the Tokyo and occasional Singapore routes are getting old. But like you, I might just take this flight and continue on via Air Asia for a bit of adventure.

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

That’d be interesting. I’m not sure how easy it’ll be to book on UA and connect in MNL. But I’m all for the budget airlines for the shorter routes 🤷‍♂️. I seem to do it by accident but it works

[@abrahamdsl]

Good luck on connecting from Terminal 3 where United docks, to terminal 4 where AirAsia flights are

[@MikeJones-uh7mt]

Take Cebu Pacific instead of AirAsia. AirAsia is a unsafe airline. They cut corners and use old planes. Cebu Pacific makes a point of having newer planes and not cutting corners. Plus they are in Terminal 3. I never understood the appeal of AirAsia. Maybe it is the name and their marketing which is gross. They sexualize their flight attendants.

[@ianbrinas2492]

@@abrahamdsl terminal 2 is for Air Asia domestic flights only recently but his onward flight with Air Asia is heading to KL which is in terminal 3 too

[@abrahamdsl]

@@ianbrinas2492 oops my bad indeed they arent among the local airlines still in t4

[@christophertan7750]

Thanks for the great review. I work for UA Customer Service in SFO and I wasn't working that day. I love how you said that this inaugural is one of your favorites. I hope this flight would be profitable and open up opportunities to connect from US to MNL and the rest of SEA. Perhaps make MNL a United Hub :D

[@repairman99]

Philippine Airlines don’t have code share with US airlines so knowing their on time arrivals questionable. Connecting to other parts of the US is difficult. United has a better on time record than PAL. Now PAL has a competition.

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Agreed. But I wonder now how UA will be able to connect people to other parts of the Philippines

[@marharv196]

Very well said, thanks for this review Patrick. Great job!

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Thank you!

[@PassportBrosBusinessClass]

You have some great videos. I'm shocked you don't have more subs. I just subbed!

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Thanks man!

[@63eradventures93]

Im glad United is back!

[@robcook7627]

Patrick, great video! Look forward to seeing your other videos!

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Thanks!!

[@reyringor3296]

This move made a great help to transport people from US to the phil.mabuhay!!

[@JordanLawrence-yj9uz]

Getting the recognition you finally deserve. 300k!! Only Up from here. Lovely video again. On my weekly watch hitlist

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Thanks!!! Very grateful!

[@allisonabbott-kline4765]

Excellent vlog and thanks getting out quickly too. One of my friends is the government relations person for United and was at the send off. She shared great photos too.

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Thanks! Did everything I could to pump this out quickly!

[@floraandfaunab8855]

Nice. Glad united is back.

[@davidsavage6227]

What a nice video. Great job!

[@manueldial4238]

Thanks for sharing Patrick. I’m looking forward on our next flight to Manila. Hopefully they will fly out of LAX / San Diego too.

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

I could see an LAX route, SAN may be a stretch since they don’t have a hub there and it’s close enough to LAX. That is PAL’s idea at least

[@KeiLe]

Hay salamat at magamit na ang mga points ko. Break muna tayu PAL. :D Awesome Video Patrick!

[@sweetf8660]

Nice video. Very timely as i am looking for a trip to mnl from sfo soon. I usually fly with PAL but now this is worth considering, thanks

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Even in economy, I think I’d choose UA’s economy class over PAL’s. PAL mostly wins in the food caregory

[@alanzemsky7695]

Great review Patrick! I’m a huge United airline fan and watching this video for your flight made me realize why!!

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Thanks man! United ftw!

[@elliebeep27]

What a fun time!

[@edgardolemque7222]

Patrick, United flew to Manila before using B747 SFO to MNL via Incheon, South Korea. I did not like it because the flight arrived in Manila at midnight. Now PAL and United compete head-on on the SFO - MNL flights, and people have options on direct flights. Whichever airline has the best price, service, and convenient flight schedule will have the edge in this competition. Thank you so much for your vlog.

[@jimmyjames6492]

Thanks for the info + video!!!

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Thanks!

[@binaryseraph855]

Great review and coverage. Thanks for doing this man

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Thanks!!

[@lilpenny1982]

About time United Airlines!!

[@YayAreaAviation]

Mans move fast!!! Great coverage my dude!

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Always stay grinding 🤣🤣

[@AmoiO10]

👏👏👏👏yehey filipinos have choices now good job united..bye to PAL hello UNITED AIRLINES❤❤❤🇵🇭🇺🇸

[@AmoiO10]

Im so excited to come home again flying with United Airlines this time❤😂👏

[@efriendsf]

What a fantastic review! Kudos!

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Thanks dog!

[@theplanesguy]

That was a fast turnaround, sweet video!

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Lol did everything in my power to pump it out first

[@angryman71]

Well, my family and I just took UNITED to Manila via San Francisco from Chicago. We went to Manila in early November and returned in late November. I can honestly say, I was NOT IMPRESSED at all. The flight there was long, overnight and lacked very much for hydration. The food was meager at best. While they came around every so often for drinks, they didn't give you "full cans" of pop or anything -- just a small cup with whatever you wanted in it. Even the flight on UNITED 737 from Chicago to San Francisco, you would get a full can of pop with their beverage service which happened 2-3 times on the 4 hour flight -- while the 14 hour flight seems like it happened maybe 5-6 times, 2 of which were with a meal and a small "bun" (snack). While I understand it was a "night flight" -- it would have been nice for those of us that were awake to at least have someone come around with bottles of water -- I think I saw that once or twice. The leg from San Francisco to Manila had one stewardess that I think bathed in her perfume -- I am allergic to perfume/cologne, so I am very picky. I get a massive migraine from strong scents. We were in the air for almost 2 hours before they came around with the earbuds for the entertainment system so we could watch movies. The flight from Manila to San Francisco WAS BETTER than the flight there, but either my daughter and I got some bug on the plane or we got food poisoning, but for 2-3 days after the flights, I was sicker than a dog with diarrhea that would not stop. It didn't start until I was on the plane from Manila to San Francisco -- started getting a horrible headache and tummy aches. Once we landed in Chicago and got back to the hotel, I got very sick and couldn't keep anything in me (even water) that didn't come right back out. I have flown ANA, Philippine Airlines (PAL) and DELTA on the flights from the USA to Manila (Delta was through Japan). DELTA, by far, ranks at the TOP based on service, food, comfort, room and beverage service. I'd have to say that BOTH ANA and PAL rank higher than UNITED - as was the consensuses from my entire family. I had sworn off UNITED after my dad died in Hawaii (he would snowbird there in the Winter with my step mother who had a house there) and they did NOT OFFER any sort of bereavement fare. For me, my wife and my daughter to go to Hilo, it was a little over $4500 round trip 😞. UNITED - STEP UP YOUR GAME. I will be making more trips to the Philippines as I get older and closer to retirement. I'd like to give you a chance again, but you have let me down severely in the past.

[@brianmichaels5112]

That’s a shame. No offense but I never take family reviews seriously. I mean I cringe when I see kids on international flights and just pray they have parents that make them behave and pay attention their needs and are not wanting the flight attendants to babysit for them . That said I would not let one flight ( connection included ) rule UA out. They are really great and just getting better and better. Maybe when you and you husband /wife/ other half do an international or domestic flight without children you can do another review.

[@wolfganghofmann3977]

We really like your reviews , you explain everything , and we always look forward to the next one , cheers 🍻.

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Thank you!!

[@robm3074]

Patrick... I absolutely love your videos. The way you speak makes it interesting, You are very informative and I look forward to many more of your videos. Thank you for your hard work.

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Thank you! I appreciate it!

[@YTsunoda22]

I am going on this flight in Polaris for thanksgiving, cant wait.

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

I hope you enjoy it! It was a ton of fun!

[@mikeoz8806]

I am excited for this, because I usually fly United through Guam or fly to Hong Kong and then take a regional airline to Manila. For my next trip in a couple months, I will be taking this route! Thank you United Airlines. Thanks for this review!

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Enjoy! Safe travels!

[@btscott1]

Thanks, great review. Wife and I are booked PAL business SFO-MNL-SYD in September of next year with an MNL stopover. Hope this competition bodes well for us and they upgrade the dated planes, cabins and food service before then. I will say that the PAL customer service and service on the planes has been great, the one other time we flew business from SFO-MNL. Though our connection from Bohol-MNL was very delayed and had to run to make connection to SFO and bags didn't make the flight.

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Yea, it does sound like PAL has some issues that need to be ironed out. I’m hoping the competition will be good. Luckily, PAL has their A350-1000s arriving soon with new cabins and should be serving SFO in a couple years