Philippine Airlines Joins Oneworld: Will American Airlines Fly to Manila?

Introducing Philippine Airlines

Philippine Airlines (PAL) is officially set to join the Oneworld alliance in 2027, a highly anticipated announcement. This significant step will bolster Oneworld's position in Southeast Asia. As the 16th member of the alliance, PAL will become the first airline in the Philippines to join and the second in Southeast Asia, following Malaysia Airlines.

Benefits for Travelers with Philippine Airlines Joining Oneworld

The integration into Oneworld will bring numerous advantages for Philippine Airlines passengers. Once the transition is complete, travelers will be able to earn and redeem loyalty points across the Oneworld network. Business and premium class members will enjoy a range of perks, including priority check-in, access to VIP lounges, and preferred seating.

Development Steps and Statement from PAL

Lucio C. Tan III, the Chairman of PAL Holdings, described this as a revolutionary moment for Philippine Airlines. He stated, "Joining Oneworld not only bridges the gap between the Philippines and the world but also enhances the high-quality travel experience for our passengers, showcasing the hospitality of the Filipino people."

Will American Airlines Fly to Manila?

With Philippine Airlines joining Oneworld, does this mean American Airlines (AA) will launch flights to Manila? Many are asking this question, especially since AA recently canceled its Doha route and is looking to introduce a new destination. The addition of PAL could position Manila as a new connecting hub for the airline.

Challenges in Launching New Routes

Despite the potential, American Airlines faces several hurdles in establishing flights to Manila. The airline attempted to set up a trans-Pacific route from Los Angeles but was unsuccessful. Competing with Philippine Airlines and Delta in the same market could lead to higher operational costs for AA.

Other Hubs American Airlines Could Leverage

Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW) could be another viable option for AA due to its strong connectivity. However, the approximately 8,300-mile distance from DFW to Manila would make it AA's longest flight, complicating profitability. Other cities like Phoenix, Charlotte, or Chicago are also less feasible due to insufficient Filipino populations.

Market Conditions and Lessons from Hong Kong

Notably, American Airlines has withdrawn from the Hong Kong market despite its partnership with Cathay Pacific. If AA couldn't sustain operations in Hong Kong, it's unlikely they will open routes to Manila in the near future. Philippine Airlines, with its deep understanding of the domestic market, further enhances its competitive edge.

Conclusion

Philippine Airlines' entry into Oneworld is a positive development for the alliance, strengthening its presence in Southeast Asia and creating more opportunities for travelers. However, American Airlines' potential flights to Manila remain uncertain, influenced by complex economic and competitive factors. If more direct flights from the U.S. to the Philippines materialize, it seems likely that Philippine Airlines will take the lead over American Airlines in this endeavor.

This article was referenced and edited from: Live and Let's Fly