Philippine Airlines (PAL) has announced a significant expansion of its Pacific network with the launch of a new route to Palau and the restoration of service to Saipan, reinforcing Manila's role as a key regional aviation hub.
PAL President Richard Nuttall stated, "This launch reinforces Manila's position as a key regional transit hub while strengthening its role as a gateway for medical tourism. It also underscores PAL's role as a reliable bridge connecting Pacific communities with the broader Asia-Pacific region."
New Manila-Palau Service The flag carrier has introduced direct flights between Manila and Palau (Koror), a Pacific island-nation in Micronesia renowned for its world-class marine attractions and vibrant dive sites. Flights operate every Wednesday and Sunday, departing Manila at 9:45 PM and arriving in Palau at 1:30 AM the following day. Return flights operate every Monday and Thursday, departing Palau at 3:10 AM and arriving in Manila at 4:55 AM.
Saipan Service Resumes Complementing the new Palau route, PAL has resumed its Manila-Saipan service, re-establishing its presence in this Pacific island in the Northern Marianas. These direct flights also operate twice weekly on Wednesdays and Sundays, leaving Manila at 7:45 PM and arriving in Saipan at 1:45 AM the following day. Return flights operate every Monday and Thursday, departing Saipan at 2:50 AM and arriving in Manila at 5:05 AM.
Aircraft and Connectivity Travelers on both Pacific routes will fly on PAL's Airbus A321ceo aircraft, configured with 12 business class and 187 economy class seats and equipped with wireless in-flight entertainment. These routes further expand PAL's cargo offering, positioning Manila as a key cargo hub for shipments bound for the Pacific and beyond across the airline's broader network.
Strategic Expansion These new routes reinforce Manila's status as a major gateway to the Pacific Islands, providing vital connectivity to the Commonwealth of the Northern Marianas (CNMI). PAL also serves the Pacific region through existing flights to Guam and Honolulu. These routes form part of the flag carrier's ongoing network expansion, which is focused on strengthening its North American and Pacific presence while enhancing connectivity across its domestic and regional markets.