PHILIPPINE AIRLINES BUSINESS CLASS: 13 Hours from Manila to San Francisco

[@fakerating]

I don't find them a good deal at all. They have a monopoly on all of their NONSTOPS across the Pacific, and they charge a premium for that. They are always the most expensive to/from Manila.

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Well that May change in October once United becomes the only other airline with direct service from North America to the Philippines on this same route

[@maelestepa9252]

When I came to America the first time I flew with United via Seattle, Washington to San Francisco.

[@fakerating]

@@maelestepa9252 Fascinating story.

[@sktoh4469]

​@@maelestepa9252When I first flew into the USA, I flew with Continental Airways. 😁

[@augustjohnnycrashed]

Shit food, uncomfortable seats loud children I'm done!!! Oct 29 United nonstop to Philippines!!

[@lesmisurbanite5306]

Good for United to fly direct to Manila. Good luck PAL. Please more options for us.

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

It’ll be great to have the competition on that route. Hopefully forcing Philippine airlines to make some much needed improvements, although the A350s seem to be heading in a positive direction. Now we just need to fix the MNL Airport

[@michaelmallal9101]

PAS is famous for lateness.

[@ronnerup14]

That's the only thing I truly hates with bag check prior to seeing a ticket agent. I just flew China Airlines last month and I was in and out with my luggage. THERE WAS NO BAG CHECK WHATSOEVER. It is 2023 and not 1993. It is so much of a hassle. The only positive side is Philippines Airlines flies nonstop to JFK but I notice when I flew last November and a year prior to that, there A350 needs a little bit of maintenance. Issues with the bathroom door, seat cover is not properly installed, etc. Too few movies for entertainment than in the past. Besides that, the crew is great and food is great.

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Good to know. I do want to try their A350s since they have the new product, but I may wait for the A350-1000s to arrive since I’ll bet we see those at SFO

[@donnabarnaiha6880]

NAIA terminals sucks a lot!!!!!! I cannot wait for 2027 for the Bulacan airport to open... Good thing it will be manage by a private company SMC...

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

That’ll be great. It’ll be good to have some other, better airport since it’ll hopefully inspire NAIA to actually put in some work

[@jermsestr]

Dimming the lights when landing at night is a safety protocol in case of a crash, your pupils have adjusted to the lighting so in case of an emergency evacuation, your eyes do not have to adjust to the brightness/darkness of the environment. Conversely this is done opposite when landing the day, when the window shades are asked to be kept open

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Totally… I am more referring to it being a problem in cruise when they are asked to be kept down the whole flight with no cabin lights

[@mikeylodeon.7326]

interesting...

[@tcthedream]

@@PatrickSheaAviationmy business class cubicle had its own lights and they NEVER asked me to turn mine off.

[@nonparlesvouz2720]

Of course it's disappointing, bro received the OLDER airplane models. Airbus business class is unreal.

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

It’s definitely better in those airplanes, but unfortunately they don’t have the capacity yet for the SFO/LAX flights

[@ad11216]

i've been told by a former commercial pilot that if you're sitting on the window side, IT IS YOURS - i.e. no matter how charming the FA, you could say that you'd rather have the window open while in flight. however it is de rigueur to have the window open during take off and landing. the former pilot also mentioned that this close-windows thing, esp during night time, might have been due to passenger reactions. some passengers may think they 'saw' something outside the plane and become hyped. it could potentially cause concern or make the other passengers panic..

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Good points. I just never want to be the only one letting light into the cabin. That’s usually why airlines at least have the mood lighting or something to give the cabin some lighting

[@joseb9355]

I flew PAL Economy class last June of this year and I promise myself I won’t do it again. Period!

[@GlimpseInParadise]

Worst experience of my life. Literally wanted to jump out of the plane 7 hours in.

[@EpicThe112]

Try to avoid it as much as possible if you want its Fleet with the quality of the other East Asian premium five star Skytrax carriers head over to Hong Kong on CX to reach MNL. Taiwanese and Hong Kongers see it as this CX🇭🇰 > PR🇵🇭. In the Taiwanese and Hong konger native script its 國泰航空 vs 菲律賓航空. In my family it's a special case my father tries to avoid it as much as possible. it's a different result for my mother despite having frequent flyer mileage programs for the premium East Asian carriers from🇸🇬🇰🇷🇭🇰 she sees that as KE🇰🇷 SQ🇸🇬 CX🇭🇰 NH🇯🇵 < PR🇵🇭

[@garrett128]

My wife flew round trip on PAL Business Class from Manila to Los Angeles a few months ago. She said PAL Business Class was terrible and was just like premium economy. It was a waste of money. Also, had a broken seat that she told the flight attendant about. They said they couldn’t change her seat because the flight was full. So she couldn’t sleep the entire flight because the seat cushion kept sliding and had to be frequently adjusted. PAL was not very helpful afterwards and has poor customer service. I would avoid PAL at all costs.

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

That’s unfortunate. I wonder if it was my same seat or if there are more that have this same issue with the seat controls

[@EpicThe112]

You are correct on that one as a matter of fact my mother have to argue about her luggage being offloaded even though her final destination is Osaka Japan

[@pascachi]

I been taking PAL in any level of classes, the business class is not bad at all compare to other airlines. Since early 90’s we been taking Business Class every time we travel to Asia and if there’s some unusual with the services all you have to do is communicate with their customer service, they promptly response and pacify you with some rewards in exchange to the inconveniences you had. Try something else and find any airline that goes straight to your destination without the hassle of stopping to another country and wait for a couple hours to resume your destination…

[@deedeeseyer3263]

I heard that alot from other people...they are terrible.

[@EpicThe112]

@deedeeseyer3263 you are correct and talk to the customer service. You're going to deal with a lengthy conversation about it happened on my mother's flight from New York to Japan via Manila. EWR/JFK-KIX PR worst option better options are ICN Asiana/Korean Air UA via SFO NRT/HND JL/NH. Towards CEB from LAX,SFO,EWR,JFK, the better choices are BR CI🇹🇼 KE OZ🇰🇷 CX🇭🇰 SQ. Of these 5 star carriers, CX has the same exact jet-powered fleet as PR starting with the B-HSx A320-232s, which are equal to PR A320-214s B777-300/ER B-KPx = PR RP-C7771-7782 fleet A350s B-LRx B-LQx A359s = RP-C3501-RP-C3508 PR B-LXx A35Ks = upper RP-C35xx PR🇵🇭

[@MrHmjg]

manila airport is a disaster. lounge was worn and food poor. onboard the staff, food was excellent! slept for 8 hours. vancouver to manila rtn. business class was worth it!

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

That’s great about on board product! But I do agree with the airport comments. Also glad to see Vancouver becoming such a big trans-Pacific hub

[@604xrp8]

I was stuck at NAIA T3 when the Xiamen airlines flight crashed and skidded off the runway in 2018. 1 day before my flight out on Cathay. It was truly a sh*t storm at the airports.

[@edwinholcombe2741]

I wish PAL could get their act together. They must do maintenance. It gives people a bad impression.

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

I will say, getting the authorization to fly to the US is tough and so if maintenance was lacking too much they could lose that certification so you have to think they are okay on that front (enough at least). Upkeep of the cabin may be a different story, but who really knows what’s going on behind the scenes 🤷‍♂️

[@DrinkyNinja5533]

Sounds like Pinoy Airlines is some of the worst to fly around

[@porksisig1860]

PAL business class used to be my go to flight to MNL because it was the only direct flight from SFO, I hate layovers. It wasnt bad service. But now there is United Airlines direct to MNL, im giving that a go with the Polaris class and better seat layout/design.

[@patriciaandrada4]

Good luck on paying double the price on United. I just talked with my friend who decided not to buy a USD$8000 that United was charging for a Mnl/SFO/Mnl ticket on business class

[@porksisig1860]

@patriciaandrada4 that's not my experience. My United App was showing 5-6k RT. Timing the booking will definitely influence the price. But my point is, if one's a UnitedPlus Mileage member with Premier status, ( I have been forever) and United's credit card, no-brainer there to Fly United then. It's such a better points program than PAL's Mabuhay miles in my case..I can even book Polaris for $5.60 using just my points. 👍 or bookk premium economy and upgrade with points. like anything else, you gotta see what works best for you.

[@patriciaandrada4]

@@porksisig1860 I would rather pay USD$1500-2000 less on PAL, for as long as I can sleep and have a good meal I am happy with it. I am not a picky person and would rather use our own airline than give the business to a USA airline. That’s just my opinion. I also get better service on PAL from my experience as a premier elite member. I had a premier status on United and got this from flying domestic flights from California to New York and Chicago twice to three times a year for business, but I decided to stop flying this airline due to terrible service.

[@EpicThe112]

Really good point remember one can actually book IAD/ORD/EWR to MNL on UA Polaris service. Sadly you lose the lounge access under domestic leg which is why UA fliers get Air Canada or Avianca star alliance mileage to get the lounge access on UA domestic.

[@PeterSantos-i5s]

​@@EpicThe112😊😮😢

[@clementcho]

Good lord, everything you said about the plane and the lounge happened to me. My seat didn't work, even the call button and tv remote are busted this time. Marbaha lounge is the saddest lounge that I have been to so far and I thought Plaza Premium in Hong Kong was sad...... but I'm so wrong. I need to walk to the other side of the terminal to get to this lounge. Why should US passengers endure lower standards? Do we actually payless for our tickets?! That's BS!!

[@kevinah-ki7580]

A new manila airport is under construction at moment until 2027

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

That’ll be great once it opens

[@walterwlim]

I would never want to connect thru MNL Airport due to the logistics of changing terminals (if necessary).

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

I didn’t have to deal with that on this trip, but I can imagine it to be a nightmare based on the layout alone

[@kaicruz9912]

I’m from the Philippines I will NEVER fly business class with PAL it’s a waste of money. Next time fly via Singapore Airlines it’s the same exact price range to fly to the States from Manila. You just have to search via Kayak, the best dates to fly via Singapore airlines and you’ll get the good prices.

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

I do love Singapore airlines. But I do hope that PAL’s new aircraft arriving in 2025 will help them

[@604xrp8]

After living in Makati for 5 years NAIA Terminal 1 has to be the worst airport I've ever had to depart from. I purposely avoided any airlines that departed from T1 and even T2, and chose Cathay/ANA/Singapore Airlines from T3 instead. Also in my 5 year of living in PH I can't remember a single time my flight was on time after 100+ flights out. MNL airport only has 1 runway for wide body planes so you're either circling the city for 30mins+ waiting to land, or you're waiting on the ground for flights to come in, then waiting for your turn to take off. As for Philippine Airlines, I avoided them at all costs and would even take a stopover in HKG, NRT, or TPE to get back to North America. I'd rather pay a bit more vs settle for below standard service/airline. I'm not surprised about your review at all in fact it makes me cringe bringing back bad memories. And why would you ever WANT to fly home on PAL? lol

[@roundbo]

Singapore airlines worked out great for us! Live the lounge right above the gate! Definitely made for an easy trip out of Manila!

[@EpicThe112]

Spot on and for CX they have a rivalry with PR on HKG-MNL for 77 years now. Easy way to tell apart CX versions from PR versions of A321neo A330-300 A350-900 A350-1000 B777-300/ER are the power plugs in economy class. for A359 A35K B77W CX versions are always equipped with exterior camera views while PR versions omit them. Have you also considered ICN KE/OZ🇰🇷 TPE BR/CI🇹🇼 those airlines beat PR too. In the case of HKG-MNL PR gets the Nannies that work in Hong Kong🇭🇰 back to Manila🇵🇭

[@jefuryo]

Hope it was good. I’m not a fan of PAL

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

If I can get on their newer A350s once those -1000s start flying to SFO, I’d totally try it again at this price point. Crew and food were great. Cabin just needs some TLC

[@philipenos2930]

7:59. Philippine Airlines flights are delayed 8 out of 10 times. Don't you know that PAL stands for, the Plane is Always Late?

[@getatme8595]

I find it amazing that everytime you land on an airport you see/meet people that you will probably will never see again for the rest of yur life. Airport = strangers land

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Totally strange and surreal. Love it though!

[@mariceldb2990]

The unfortunate experience you’ve undergone is typical of PAL, but at least, you were fed well.

[@edward88881]

I agree that there should be more light in the cabin during daylight hours. It's not just this flight - even on domestic flights within the US I find that most passengers close their window shades. It's a shame especially with such beautiful scenery below.

[@francisiturralde8470]

Lll

[@bingorichards5084]

I guess you have no idea what your idea is doing to your body. Jet Lag. And most people rest before they go off board the plane because they go straight to work. That's why most carriers in the US prefer closing the windows and dim the lights even if it's a day flight. I hope you understand why these are the norms.

[@JuniorJr_23]

Very good review. Thank you.

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Thank you! Glad you liked it!

[@aliasmarg8ta127]

Thank you for this video. You saved me money. There's no advantage in paying extra for a business class fare. IF PAL wants to compete with other airlines, they need to up their game.

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Agreed. It does seem like that is coming soon with new aircraft showing up. The airport may still be a mess for years to come though

[@enricocontrerasaraneta7290]

This vlogger BADMOUTHING A 4 STAR AIRLINES.. just so happened he used the few old pal plane and made a big deal bout it. In general PAL is a fine airlines with AN EXCELLENT SAFETY RECORD & SERVICES.....hence its a 4 STAR AIRLINES

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Well, first things first, the star ratings are admittedly biased and influenced in some cases, although not necessarily in every case. Also, the routes to SFO and LAX have too high of a density for the newer and smaller cabins. Once the A350-1000s arrive those should be able to take these routes, but it’s the unfortunate truth that at this time, these routes are flown by planes that just seem a bit worn

[@asianbarbzie]

What’s the point of giving a mobile pass if they’re not gonna honor it. Damn this airline is stuck in the 70’s when they were “world class!” So damn happy that United is finally flying directly to Manila!

[@opcal3897]

@patrick shea. Can you share where you get your plane ticket? 'A little over usd1k ' is a great price. Normally it is 2k-3k each way in pal biz'

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

I typically use all different sites. Sometimes booking with the airline directly is cheaper, but other travel agencies around the world can typically give deals for these tickets. I could talk though the process for a while as each ticket I buy usually takes about a month of daily flight searches with a ton of city pairs to find the absolute cheapest deal. One of the usual rules: direct flights are almost always more expensive. For this flight, for example, I booked JJN-MNL-SFO with a long layover in Manila

[@sudeezudee9666]

Philippine Airlines Business Class sucks!!! A complete waste of money. You don’t get the right services you paid for!

[@filipino8088]

If you had that much of a problem with seating I would ask for a refund or at least partial refund. Terrible part of Philippine airlines. I like how calm you are with you video though. Good and honest review

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Thanks! The refund is a work in progress. The airline is making it nearly impossible to even get a refund request in to them

[@r2kin2phils]

PAL and NAIA combo is third world to desbribe. As a FIlipino myself, your video is hard to watch because it's true. 😞

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Well PAL has their new airplanes on the way, so hopefully with some upgrades to NAIA the experience can be wonderful. We can hope at least

[@dannyM7M]

PAL at least 15 years behind time in all aspects. Sorry but your seat was dated, dirty and defective. Will never fly them again even with newer fleet.

[@elitepctech]

Even Filipino avoid PAL. Grandpa Vlogger had a video blasting PAL about a flight with no functional restrooms Happy that United now has a direct flight from SF to Maynila

[@jlr_]

The reason why T2 has Mabuhay lounge is because T2 was exclusively PAL's terminal for the longest time. It was only this summer when they forced PAL international flights to move to T1 making T2 all domestic flights. I'm sure they'll eventually have a Mabuhay lounge in T1.

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

I have heard of them possibly constructing a T1 lounge which I am excited for. Although T1 has some other things that need fixing for sure, although that will fall in the responsibilities of the airport and not the airline

[@jlr_]

@@PatrickSheaAviation which is also being worked on. The gov't is privatizing operations of the airport and the largest corps of the PH already submitted their proposal. It's just the waiting game for it to get approved.

[@jrodriguez014]

For a long time I haven't taken PAL because of my last experience about 20 years ago where the flight stewardess was kind of arrogant. Maybe because I'm just Filipino just like her. At any rate, she's supposed to be respectful when talking to passengers regardless. But now, with this video, I'll probably take a PAL flignt again...that's if I could convince my wife. We usually take KAL or JAL because the flight crews are more respectful and clean the bathroom all the time.

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

I honestly really enjoyed my crew. I hope you get to try it again, maybe once their new fleet starts flying these routes in 2025!

[@woutergijs5246]

The positive thing about 4 terminals is that it can go wrong 4 times. Great to have a lot of material to write about .

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

I know the T3 is new at MNL airport, but I’ve only ever arrived at that terminal. T1 is in desperate need of attention, and although I haven’t seen it in person, it sounds like T2 is as well

[@ronnerup14]

And there is another security checkpoint prior to getting to your assigned gates. Sheesh. China Airlines never had that either. Just one freaking checkpoint right after immigration and that was it.

[@danielclooney6248]

Patrick, you are so right on flying in a darked out cabin for that long. Drives me crazy. I need to see out to maintain any level of sanity. On a recent flight to Hawaii, a lady with a window seat refused to put her shade down so I was able to look out her window. She was staying in same hotel as I so I made sure she knew how appreciative I was. I'm a foodie so I think I could put up with the mechanical issues if the food is wonderful. But that airport is a mess and don't think I could easily deal with it since I'm older now and less tolerant of unorganized crowds.

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Yes!! 🙌 that’s awesome! And I do agree, that food is a big thing that can totally change the mood of a flight

[@donjosegomburza835]

Thank you for your video. I rather pay an extra dollar for another airline. Like Singapore, ANA and Japan airlines. I had a bad experience with PAL. 😢😢😢😢

[@james007bray]

Nice video Patrick, I just returned with my family Wednesday night on basically same flight and time. Once you experience traffic in Manila, you won't complain about traffic in the US. Food and service were exceptional on our flight, for us the extra cost for business class is well worth it especially having 2 young kids.

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Awesome! Totally agree!

[@lutomson3496]

I disagree organized chaos is one thing, and it seems to work better then the crap here in the US which has so much garbage and worse...

[@stebopign]

Your review about our airport is perfectly fair. this is why philippine airlines will never prosper. our shit airport is weighing the whole service down.

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Makes sense. Although you can’t pin that on the airline, so it’s just an unfortunate circumstance that Philippine Airlines has to deal with

[@andrewmuller3558]

Did you get any compensation for the seat malfunctioning? Also this ticket was started from where. Ex mnl-sfo can’t be $1k usd one way in J

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

I’m working on getting some form of compensation, but they aren’t making it easy…. And it was booked as JJN-MNL-SFO

[@jamesccook]

I did the LAX to MNL business round trip, LAX to MNL, no entertainment system and no charge port Departed 3 hours late Was offered miles but only got half MNL to LAX no entertainment working, and the seat in-op and was stuck in full uptight for 14 hr, No offer for compensation Really a sad experience for me

[@tomsoden1738]

I love the Philippines and the people there but the airport is a nightmare.

[@MOGMAN]

STARLUK 4 the win.

[@itzjoee19]

It's a shame IFE and Seat functions barely worked on this B777. I flew SFO to MNL on December 2020 business class on their A350, which was a much better experience because it's a newer plane. Too bad they no longer use that aircraft for this route. Perhaps because there were only 150 passengers at that time during the height of the pandemic and the A350 was a perfect plane for it. Either way, United is coming down the pike and PAL is gonna be left behind until they get the A350-1000 by 2025 Q4.

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Yea, unfortunately the A350-900 isn’t a high enough capacity for SFO and LAX, but the new A350-1000s arriving in the next year or two should be able to take over those routes and should have the new updated product

[@a.downing2791]

Thanks for the video. You’ve convinced me to avoid Philippine Airlines. I’d rather pay more for a better quality plane and service. So far Singapore airlines is the best I’ve flown.

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Singapore Airlines is wonderful!

[@JS-ii9gi]

Its an old B777. Lucky if you are flying with their A350. Thats the problem with PAL, cabin facilities do not require refurbishing on old aircrafts. Unfortunately, the last flight i took it was dirty and the overhead lights cannot be switched off so even if the cabin is supposedly dimmed after dinner for pax to sleep , the lights in my are is still lighted.. but of course the services done by crew is superp.. cant wait for United to start its flight. Maybe PAL will start fixing these inadequate cabin facilities.

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Unfortunately the old 777s are the only aircraft with the capacity for SFO and LAX. They do have the larger model of A350 on the way and then hopefully that will bring the new interior to this route

[@erwinjohnv]

@@PatrickSheaAviation unfortunately their A350-900 only flies to east Coast.. so its an all B777 in the west coast... A350-1000 well hopefully it will bring changes. PAL must live up with their 4 star skytrax rating. They forgot to maintain it anymore

[@EpicThe112]

@@erwinjohnv you are correct. However, their 15 A350s are no match for the larger SQ QR and CX fleets

[@teamviceion6809]

I just hate the fact that there's still security check at the boarding gate which made it hard for us to roam around the area while waiting for our flight

[@dinopiccio4144]

The security checks at the boarding are mandated by the US Government for all flights bound for the US.

[@teamviceion6809]

@@dinopiccio4144 im talking about my personal experience going to Canada

[@deandecoursey2334]

It looks like I’ll be flying LAX to BKK this December. I’m sure that it will be economy and to reduce the cost, as I’m originating from Kansas City, I’ll fly Southwest on points to LAX (I’ve done this at least 15 times). On the return, the plane is supposed to land at 8:15 AM. I would normally give myself 3 hours to make the Southwest flight to MCI. As PAL has a reputation for being late, how much time should I allow to make my Southwest flight to MCI?

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

If you have to clear immigration on arrival, it can take an hour or so, but being in the morning does make it a bit better usually. I typically allow 3 hours at a minimum when I have to clear immigration and recheck my bag

[@paulsz6194]

So add 3, perhaps 4 hours then. BKK is usually pretty go for on time ( or close to on time ) departures. Which airline is flying direct between LAX- BKK ?

[@Thelivingatlas]

Philippines airlines have both on there 330 and 350 aircraft has better business class seats . Try them.

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

The 350 is in the plans, but for now I’m waiting to plan my next trip to Asia

[@Thelivingatlas]

@PatrickSheaAviation awesome great videos by the way. Keep it up

[@JimboandGhen]

Good recent video and seems likes things still have not changed with PAL. They are so behind the times and wow, wifi and seat issues is not a good start. You made it safely so thats the main thing! Thanks for the share!

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Thanks! Yea… the 777 needs a bit of a facelift. I will say that the A350s appear to me much better, they just don’t have the capacity for SFO/LAX. Hopefully in a year or so when the A350-1000s arrive, we will see those on these high density routes 🤞🤞

[@angbiyaherongfanboy9550]

I may have to reconsider flying PAL internationally as they operate out of Terminal 1 - i actually prefer Terminal 2 (where they use to operate international flights before) or even 3.

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

PAL is now spread across all terminals in Manila. T3 definitely being the best, but has the least amount of PAL flights

[@angbiyaherongfanboy9550]

@@PatrickSheaAviation I think they're no longer there as of this time. 1 and 2 only. But we used Terminal 3 to fly PAL to Caticlan in 2017.

[@joeyk9578]

From about Dec last year to middle of this year, only US bound PAL flights were transferred to T1 from T2. It was a much more pleasant experience with hardly any waitlines prior to check-in. The Paggs lounge was a bit full & I opted to go the smaller one which I enjoyed almost entirely to myself for nearly 2 hours. Not much in the way of amenities but it was quiet. I see from your video the situation has gone back to the chaos before T2 even opened with all PAL international flights back in T1.

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

If I remember correctly, T2 has the only Philippine Airlines lounge? Either way, it wouldn’t hurt for them to take a look into renovations to the terminal

[@ianbrinas2492]

@@PatrickSheaAviation in their new adver PAL is launching new Mabuhay lounge in T1 set to open later this year

[@Flying_Gamer76]

@@PatrickSheaAviation Yes because PAL has just started since april to move international flights from t2 to t1

[@alansullins3024]

I will never fly on another Phillipines airlines.

[@jg-bd3hr]

I don’t know if anybody said this but not to spook you but if there’s water in the wall there’s a lot of stuff there including the window itself that can be damaged in an unsafe deadly way. That’s just my analytical mind saying but I don’t know for a fact. What I do know is when you have power problems like that that could lead to a fire that plane should’ve never been flying. Seats being removable it could’ve been a loose plug between the seat and aircraft but that’s also a fire hazard. I might choose a different airline even though I kinda like that one. Loved your video.

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Good notes. Thanks!

[@edgardolemque7222]

Thank you so much Patrick for pointing out positives and negatives on this vlog. I hope PAL and NAIA T1 management view your vlog and make the necessary adjustments for the better because much is to be desired. Hopefully, by 2028 or 2029 the New Manila International Airport in Bulakan, Bulacan will be ready for use. PAL will have a run for its money on head-on competition from United. Competition is healthy and gives potential passengers options to choose what airline to fly, price wise, service, comfort, and convenience of flight schedule. Great vlog and keep up with your excellent work.

[@JH-2122]

My son and I flew with PAL on a round trip from SFO to MNL and back on an economy seats. We opted for the seats next to the Exit door for a better leg room. Unfortunately, the pullout trays as well as the head phones weren't working. During meal time we used our laps to improvised. When we landed in Manila I submitted a written complaint to fix the problem. Thirty days later on the way back home we had the same seat numbers but the issues weren't resolved. I kept the tickets as souvenir for the bad experience. A year or two later, PAL was barred from entering the USA until PAL complies with the FAA maintenance requirements. Since then I refused to fly with PAL.

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Damn. That’s a crazy story

[@mikem488]

PAL is currently building a new business lounge in terminal 1. Think they started during the pandemic. They have one room that fills up for 42 business class to LAX. Food is terrible. Very crowded. Food is good and service is good on the LAX flight. PAL just order 9 A350. To be delivered every six months starting in late 2025. To be used flying to USA. That should help mechanical problems inside the plane.

[@mylesgarcia4625]

Flew that flight, yes in Bus, in March 2019. I got the last seat available in Bus. While I found things, including the terminal, as you said, very crowded, I guess that's the main negative point of that experience. And yes, the whole setting seemed old, like you, I chose PAL mainly because of the direct connection from California and the food. Good to hear that United will be offering direct service starting in Oct 2023. I would pick them. In 2000 and 2004, I flew United to HKG and then just switched to PAL or Cathay to Manila. Those United flights on 747s were really superb. Unfortunately, my flying days to Asia are pretty much over.

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Well I hope you get the chance to travel back there. Sounds like you had a similar experience

[@patriciaandrada4]

United airfares are ridiculously expensive, I just checked it’s USD$4000 - 8000 for business class😬

[@mylesgarcia4625]

@@patriciaandrada4 I have no plans of flying to Asia anymore but obviously you're looking at PEAK, HIGH-SEASON times. And when I flew United 20 years ago, I did Upgrades to business using my FF points. You get what you pay for.

[@patriciaandrada4]

@@mylesgarcia4625 FYI: that fare is not peak season rate. I don’t like United, they were not helpful at all when my flight was canceled, also happened to my sister and her companion. I would rather fly Delta but their route has too many layovers and change of planes unlike before it was only via Tokyo where we change planes.

[@mylesgarcia4625]

@@patriciaandrada4 Sorry to hear that you do NOT like United. And you are of course, entitled to your opinion w/ good reason. Well, I can only speak of my positive expriences with United. It's worked for me in the past. Best of luck.

[@MCOplanespotter]

How do you take your water…. 2 creams, 3 sugars?!

[@requimbo]

Pal Business class - Manila=SFO=Manila should be labeled " Busines Class kono", in flight service is ok, food is ok.... but seat is premium economy! United airlines starts SFO-MNL with exceptional business class! its time to try

[@love2roam2]

i looked for 2 diff sets of dates and they were all in the 5k ish range. nothing in the 2k as mentioned. was there a special going on? LAX-MNL. thanks

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

If you’re just looking to Manila it’ll be more expensive. Every time I’ve got it for around $1k it’s been transiting Manila and then on to other parts of Asia

[@carlsmith7458]

This is why I fly Delta. I have been flying to Philippines for a while now . Never have I had any problems. It will always be Delta Airlines for me.

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Well now United’s got the nonstop to Manila so you don’t have transfer in Asia to another carrier

[@reyesmarlon5805]

Sadly Delta discontinued it's Manila service since 2021. I've flow with Delta thrice from Manila to the USA before and has been the best for me so far.

[@deandecoursey3061]

I used to be a big fan of Northwest Airlines. I tried Delta 2-3 times after they acquired NWA, hated the experience and haven’t flown Delta in over 20 years

[@EpicThe112]

​@@deandecoursey3061have you tried their partner Korean Air all the way you get a better service than DL/PR.

[@tagastaana9533]

Haha…you’ll never complain about traffic in California bcoz of what you’ve seen in the Philippines…that really crack us up

[@m8tyone]

That is why PAL stands for “Pal Always Late”. Not only that Inefficiencies are the norm.

[@sasca854]

That definition is recursive! Lol

[@stebopign]

the big boxes is because filipinos love bringing things back for friends to and from the philippines!

[@nkhan4]

I agree, they should let the cabin follow the light cycle of the destination. I assume since they didn't give the eye masks they turned all the lights off, but I find that weird.

[@chairmandan1794]

I don't want to buy a seat to sleep. I now refuse to business class for that very reason.

[@paulsz6194]

@@chairmandan1794 Which airline forces it’s Business Class passengers to sleep in their seats?? How do the flight attendants check if you’re sleeping? 🤔

[@LDW1961]

All airlines turn the lights off and encourage window shades down on long haul day flights. It's just practical for movie watchers and nappers, who are the vast majority onboard. If it was broad daylight you'd have restless kids running riot, over excited newb travellers wanting to party in the galley areas and demanding alcoholic drinks, which are free on most legacy long haul flights, and so forth, just a nightmare for everyone. Also, there's nothing to see outside crossing an ocean at 35 thousand feet.

[@chairmandan1794]

@@LDW1961 I pay good money for service, I don't like being treated like a two year old and told that it is rest time!!!

[@jimtalor7971]

As my wife would say anytime I complain about promptness and delays "Its Philippine Time".

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

HA! 😂

[@octaviocampos6960]

I like it dark. I hate when I'm sleeping and someone lifts the shades, is just so annoying...

[@stevejeffrey7948]

PAL was described the Filipinos I worked as Plane Always Late.

[@BoseongCowboy]

Looks TERRIBLE, those are old style Business Class seats…. PAL is basically a decent domestic carrier but can’t compete on International routes… I flew Economy SFO to Manila in May and PAL auctioned Business Class seats in advance of the flight.

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Yea I’ve seen those bids for upgrades before. Hopefully the arrival of their A350-1000s will help these high density routes

[@jeraldb2868]

Never ever fly PAL. Pay the extra and fly one of the MANY other airlines flying into MNL…Singapore, Cathay, ANA, EVA, JAL….my god there are so many better flight experiences out there

[@EpicThe112]

You are correct if you want the same Fleet as Philippine Airlines yet get the five star quality you're looking at Cathay Pacific. 15:58 Korean Air also works and for the A380 you need to be doing MNL/CEB-ICN-LAX

[@serealbasar9489]

Philippines Airline Business Class is like Paying for a Lexus just to get a Ford. LOL

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

A ford with really good food 👀

[@djcalvin408]

I didn’t have a good experience with both Philippines airport and airline. Very disorganized and hectic, not to mention cleanliness.

[@bonindaisylim5723]

It looks like the aircraft that you rode on is an older model. The aircraft that we rode on last December from Honolulu to Manila (RT) is the Airbus A330-300. The Business Class seating configuration was 1-2-1. And our seats were pretty big. A pod like style. Very nice! My family and I are traveling to the Philippines again this December 2023, and all nine of us are all seated in Business Class. Excited for our flight!

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Philippine Airlines does have their new business class on the A330 and A350 but unfortunately those aircraft don’t have the capacity required for San Francisco. The newly arriving A350-1000 should help with that

[@reynufable625]

The A350 is only from Honolulu. LAX flights also use the 777

[@robertk8452]

One of the WORST flight reviews. Too opinionated and too much negative comments. UNSUSCRIBED 😂

[@itzjoee19]

Byeeee Felicia! No one cares lol

[@perryugalde639]

I personally never flew PR. However, two of my sons traveled on PR from MNL to HNL, and their gripes included late departure (scheduled 6pm departure; 715pm actual departure) and closed window shades. Admittedly, the closed window shades AND dark cabin do annoy me. The late MNL departure for SFO is interesting.

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

The dark cabin for 12 hours is just a lot. I get wanting to adjust people to their arriving time zone, but they didn’t even do that since we arrived well rested, but it was 10pm in SFO 🤷‍♂️

[@wengelder9256]

Why would late departure be the responsibility of the airline . Most of the time it’s not .

[@kciresmith496]

Thanks for honest review. PAL excellent with service and food but not good lounge and need to upgrade with new aircraft, current aircraft too old already. My next flight probably not PAL, will choose japanese or korean airline

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Totally agree. Hopefully the new fleet arriving next year will bring a better future to Philippine Airlines

[@wespuckdog3897]

I just flew from Manila to Amsterdam on KLM, 17 hours! NEVER AGAIN with KLM!!!

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Interesting. I had a great flight on my one time with KLM

[@QUlX0TlC]

Yeah but Asiana’s safety record would make me anxious during the entire trans-Pacific flight… I’d rather fly PR and have the peace of mind with better pilots and way better food.

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

I'd say both are safe enough for peace of mind, but PAL definitely wins the food battle

[@teamviceion6809]

I must agree with the light situation, I flew one of their A350s to North America 2 months ago, and the stewardess told us to shut our windows down prior to takeoff. Since then, the whole cabin has been dark till landing. It was kind of awkward to open our window shade as it will become the only source of light in the cabin.

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Totally!

[@fredricgrethel1717]

Flip Flop Traveler also had a poor fight with broken light etc. He also had terrible food and lazy crew. PAL is a no go for me. Maintenance equals safety.

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

It was tough. But their new airplanes arriving should hopefully help. Now Manila needs to fix up their airport

[@rosariocalosur7802]

Not a very comfortable long haul the plane is obviously old but PAL redeems itself with good in-flight menu a 50/50

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Totally! That’s why I think the new airplanes arriving will make the experience much better

[@Krystian10]

I've travelled on Philippine Airlines business class about a year ago from LAX To Naia . The cabin is outdated and tired. The crew was great . I would never fly PAL business again . In my opinion, EVA business class is far superior

[@MarxAviano]

It's important to note, that final security layer will dispose of any liquids you just purchased in the terminal. All the drinks you thought you could take on the plane, nope.

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

That totally sucks. I wonder what the reason for that is if there’s already a security checkpoint and they’re already checking everything being sold in the airport

[@ricardomarcos8997]

how much is the fare round trip

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

It’s all going to depend on which city you fly to. It’s cheapest if you connect through Manila and go somewhere else in Asia. It’s closer to $4000 round trip if you only book to Manila direct and back

[@paulready8897]

PAL is one of the worst airlines to fly with in Asia. They are expensive and definitely not worth flying with and their service is not good at all. The only good thing I can say is that they have a non-stop flight between Manila and JFK airport in New York. They definitely need new management at the corporate level. They totally need an overhaul in their operations.

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

I agree that there is work to be done, fortunately the arrival of new aircraft should really help with that. I didn’t experience the same issues with the service and cost, as I found both to be great, but I guess everyone has their own experience

[@chrisdsouza8685]

The two big requirements for me are reclining seats and wifi. I find it incredible that you had to struggle with those.

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

It’s unfortunate to have that when paying extra for a premium experience. They have since reached out to help me get some form of refund at least

[@nolanivane4477]

MNL airport is the worst airport, whilst PR is arguably the most terrible airline you’ll ever be onto.

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

At least PAL has new aircraft coming. They have good staff. So if they can have good management they can make something good out of it. MNL airport is a whole different beast of the trenches

[@iashakezula]

I decided to fly in and out direct from Cebu this past July and that was very smooth and fast. I didn’t fly PAL though.

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

I heard Cebu’s new terminal renovation was great as well

[@Jamie-Fox]

..the crew want you to sleep after meals..so shades down..if you are asleep less service and work for them..if everyone is awake means more work..got it!

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Not sure if that's the full story there. The crew was actually great and continued working throughout the cabin even in the dark

[@Spy-hp8ki]

So hilarious when people say "amount" of people instead of "number" of people. 🤣

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

🤷‍♂️

[@semsemeini7905]

Who cares. As long as it's a flat bed. I will book it for $1,000. I thought Asiana was bought by Korean?

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

They were, although they have yet to begin the merging of the two airlines

[@Boypogikami132]

Manila traffic is basically worse than LA traffic, especially at EDSA.

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Traffic was TOUGH for sure

[@bmcutty]

You said Philippine airlines has one of the cheaper business class tickets and then you implied tickets cost as little as $1000?? That’s absolute BS! Direct coach flights to the west coast are like $3000! Delta premium select is the best, most comfortable, cost effective travel to the west coast. Those tickets cost a little less than $3000. I will add delta/Korean airlines premium select is likely more comfortable and better experience overall

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Any direct flights are going to be more expensive. That’s true almost everywhere. You can easily find cheaper flights if you’re connecting through Manila. I just gave myself a day long layover to enjoy Manila

[@bmcutty]

@@PatrickSheaAviation I have done 4 trips from the west coast of the USA so far. I started with United partners. They had the worst connections and they didn’t earn full flight miles. Delta/Korean air has been the best option for me awesome service and full miles accruals. I will definitely hit gold next trip.

[@beautyandbeast3580]

They do not fix it coz the plane is always full and has daily flights they just don't care and they know they get away with it😅

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Well now that United will be flying the same route, I’m wondering if people will switch to those aircraft with new cabins or if it’ll force Philippine Airlines to renovate these cabins

[@frobishire]

YES Dark flights bug the hell out of me!!! people have eyelids and eye shades. It is for the benefit of the flight crew. They want you to eat, shut up and sleep!!

[@yomama383]

2K round trip? You must be using miles to pay for the flight.

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Nah. I booked as JJN-MNL-SFO for $1,100