The agreement was announced during the Farnborough Air Show by Lucio C. Tan III, President and Chief Operating Officer of PAL Holdings, Inc., Richard Nuttall, President of Philippine Airlines, together with Lars Wagner, CEO of the  Commercial Aircraft business at Airbus and Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, EVP Sales of the Airbus Commercial Aircraft business.

Once finalised, the new contract will double the airline’s total orders for the A350-1000 to 18 aircraft, of which the first two have been delivered this year. Designated as the carrier’s new flagship, the A350-1000 will enable PAL to develop its long-haul network further, primarily linking Manila with destinations in North America. These include non-stop services in both directions linking Manila with cities on the East Coast of the US and Canada.

PAL has specified a three-class configuration for its A350-1000 fleet, accommodating 382 passengers. The layout includes 42 suites in Business Class with privacy doors and fully flat beds, 24 seats in a spacious separate Premium Economy cabin and 316 seats in Economy Class. All cabins feature the latest in-flight entertainment systems and connectivity.

Philippine Airlines operates various Airbus types on its full-service network. In addition to the A350, PAL flies A330-300s to the Middle East, Australia and various points in Asia. The carrier also operates a fleet of A320 and A321 single-aisle aircraft on domestic and regional services.

At the end of June 2026, the  A350 Family had won 1,595 firm orders from 68 customers worldwide, making it one of the most successful widebody aircraft ever.

(Source: Airbus)

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“More flights are good for travellers. Greater competition makes air travel more accessible and affordable for Filipinos,” said the Department of Tourism in a statement. “We want our airlines to grow and succeed.

At the same time, we welcome more airlines and more routes because a bigger market benefits everyone — travellers, airlines, airports, tourism enterprises and the economy.”

Beyond tourism and business exchanges, the new route is expected to make homecomings easier for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) and the Filipino-American community, while also opening another gateway for American travellers to explore the Philippines.

The DOT will continue working with international and Philippine carriers to expand connectivity, open new markets, and make it easier for more people to experience the Philippines. 

Delta will become the only US airline running direct, nonstop flights between LAX and Manila (joining Philippine Airlines, which already operates the route).

Route and launch details

Start Date: 28 March 2027

Frequency: Three times weekly (28 March- 6 June  2027)

Expands to daily service starting 7 June, 2027

Onboard experience and aircraft

(Source: DOTP plus additional reporting)

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“This investment manifests our confidence in the future of Philippine Airlines and the continued growth of air travel.

The Boeing 787-10 will strengthen our medium and long-haul fleet, allowing us to provide an even better travel experience for our customers while improving operational efficiency and supporting our long-term sustainability goals,” said PAL Holdings Inc President and Chief Operating Officer Lucio C Tan III.

 “As Asia’s first and longest-serving airline, we proudly celebrated our 85th anniversary earlier this year. An equally meaningful milestone that we celebrate this year is 80 years of partnership between Philippine Airlines and Boeing.” 

The 787-10 will complement PAL’s fleet of 10 777 jets by expanding operational flexibility across the airline’s medium- and long-haul route network. 

“Philippine Airlines’ selection of the 787 Dreamliner marks an important step forward in our partnership, one that spans 80 years,” said Boeing Commercial Airplanes President and CEO Stephanie Pope.

As the largest variant of the 787 family, the 787-10 can fly 300-375 passengers up to 13,890 km (7,500 nautical miles), enabling PAL to meet rising travel demand. 

(Source: Boeing)

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Based in Ho Chi Minh City, the aircraft will be operated by Cebu Pacific’s own pilots and cabin crew, serving domestic routes between Ho Chi Minh City and Cam Ranh, Phu Quoc, Vinh, and Da Nang.

Meanwhile, Cebu Pacific will become Southeast Asia’s first low-cost airline to introduce Starlink Wi-Fi service during flights.

The airline confirmed last week that it will roll out Starlink on domestic flights starting in  2027.

The collaboration marks a milestone for Philippine aviation and positions Cebu Pacific as the first low-cost airline in Southeast Asia to bring Starlink onboard.

Cebu Pacific and fellow Indigo Partners portfolio airlines Frontier (US), Wizz Air (Europe), Volaris (Mexico), and JetSmart (South America) expect to install Starlink on over 1,000 aircraft. The deployment represents one of the largest global commitments to next-generation inflight connectivity, with airlines bringing low fares and access to reliable Wi-Fi provided through a new system managed directly by Starlink.

“Introducing Starlink marks another important step in delivering a better travel experience,” said Cebu Pacific President and Chief Commercial Officer Xander Lao.

(Source: Cebu Pacific)

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It will become the only US carrier to offer nonstop service between Los Angeles and Manila, further expanding Delta’s growing network from LAX aboard its Airbus A350-900. 

“Customers travelling through Los Angeles continue to benefit from Delta’s investments in LAX, including an expanding Asia-Pacific network and the opening of our second Delta One Lounge,” said Delta’s Vice President of Network Planning, Jeff Arinder. “The addition of Manila builds on the world-class travel experience our customers have come to expect from Delta while strengthening our position as LAX’s leading global carrier and premier West Coast hub.” 

As the capital of the Philippines, Manila is one of Southeast Asia’s most important commercial and cultural centres. The city attracts business travellers, customers visiting friends and family, and visitors eager to experience its rich history, diverse cuisine and vibrant neighbourhoods. 

As the country’s primary international gateway, Manila is the starting point for journeys throughout the Philippines, opening the door to its diverse landscapes, communities, and world-renowned island destinations. Delta’s new nonstop service creates an important new link between Southern California and one of Asia’s fastest-growing markets.

Delta also expands its LAX network with new and returning routes, including Manila, Hong Kong, Melbourne and Shanghai.

Customers will travel aboard Delta’s flagship Airbus A350-900, featuring four distinct seat categories: Delta One, Delta Premium Select, Delta Comfort and Delta Main. 

The service will operate three times weekly beginning 28 March 2027 before increasing to daily flights on 7 June 2027. 

Delta’s growing network from LAX 

As LAX’s leading global carrier and premier West Coast gateway, Delta operates more than 160 peak-day departures to over 50 destinations, powered by a growing domestic and international network built for both leisure and business travellers. 

In the past year alone, Delta has expanded its LAX network with new service to Hong Kong, Melbourne, and Chicago; returned to Shanghai; announced upcoming service to Vancouver, Newark, and Manila for early 2027; and resumed service to Chicago.

Expanding choice with Korean Air

The new Manila service also strengthens Delta’s joint venture with Korean Air, expanding customer choice between North America and the Philippines. 

Customers already enjoy access to the Philippines through Korean Air’s multiple daily flights between Seoul Incheon (ICN) and Manila. Delta’s new nonstop Los Angeles-Manila service complements the existing network, giving customers the flexibility to fly nonstop with Delta or connect through Seoul with Korean Air.

(Source: Delta)

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PAL will increase Manila–Vancouver services from daily to 10 weekly flights effective 17 November 2026.

Manila–Toronto services will increase from three to four weekly flights effective 5 December 2026.

Manila–New York (JFK) services will increase from three to four weekly flights effective 2 December 2026, with a fifth weekly flight during the peak December 2026–January 2027 holiday travel season.

The expanded services further strengthen Philippine Airlines’ leadership in the Philippines–North America market and reinforce its position as the leading Southeast Asian carrier operating the most nonstop flights between the region and North America.

“North America continues to be one of Philippine Airlines’ most important markets,” said Philippine Airlines President Richard Nuttall. “As travel demand grows, these additional flights strengthen our position as the preferred nonstop carrier between the Philippines and North America whilst providing our customers with greater choice, improved connectivity, and more opportunities to travel, do business, and reconnect with family and loved ones. As the Philippine flag carrier, we remain committed to supporting tourism, trade and economic ties between the Philippines and our key North American markets.”

The additional North America frequencies will improve connectivity via Manila to key destinations across Southeast Asia, including Jakarta, Bali, Phnom Penh, Bangkok, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur and Hanoi. Through PAL’s partnerships with American Airlines, Alaska Airlines and WestJet, customers will also enjoy improved onward connections to numerous destinations across the US and Canada.

The Airbus A350-900 will initially operate additional Toronto and New York services before transitioning to PAL’s new Airbus A350-1000 as additional aircraft join the fleet. 

The A350-1000 will also begin serving San Francisco in August 2026, offering more premium seating and further strengthening PAL’s competitiveness on the US West Coast.

(Source: Philippine Airlines)

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“This is a defining moment for Philippine Airlines,” said PAL Holdings, Inc President Lucio C Tan III. “Becoming a member of the oneworld alliance and strengthening Southeast Asia’s representation within the group significantly brings the Philippines and the region closer to the world like never before.

Together with our partners, we will deliver greater choice, consistent journeys, and a world-class travel experience that reflects the warmth of Filipino hospitality.”

Philippine Airlines was invited to join oneworld as a member-designate airline by the oneworld Governing Board, comprising the chief executives of all member airlines. 

“Philippine Airlines’ entry into oneworld supports our long‑term strategic growth and strengthens our connectivity across key markets in the Asia Pacific region,” said American Airlines Chief Executive Officer and Chair of the oneworld Governing Board, Robert Isom. “The airline has a proud heritage and will serve a critical role in our Southeast Asia network.” 

Philippine Airlines will further expand oneworld’s global network, adding 31 destinations throughout the Philippines and beyond. The airline’s growing international network will support customer demand across Asia, North America, Europe, the Middle East and Australia, complementing existing services currently offered by oneworld members.

“Philippine Airlines is a globally respected carrier with a strong commitment to innovation and customer service that aligns with oneworld’s reputation for delivering a premium experience across the travel journey,” said oneworld Chief Executive Officer Ole Orvér. “This decision is an endorsement of oneworld, and its global customer offering. We look forward to welcoming Philippine Airlines into the alliance.”

Following its entry into oneworld, members of Philippine Airlines’ Mabuhay Miles programme will enjoy reciprocal opportunities to earn and redeem miles and points across all oneworld member airlines. The airline’s eligible top-tier customers will enjoy access to oneworld Priority benefits and access to more than 700 premium airport lounges, including oneworld’s branded lounges in Amsterdam’s Schiphol and Seoul’s Incheon airports, as well as First Class lounges and check-in areas, a benefit unique to oneworld fliers.

(Source: Oneworld)

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Under this partnership, Agoda and DOT will primarily run joint marketing initiatives to promote travel to the Philippines. The collaboration extends to training programs and workshops on topics like digital transformation, service excellence, and industry best practices. Agoda and DOT will also support more sustainable tourism practices through awareness initiatives and knowledge‑sharing.

Agoda Chief Commercial Officer Damien Pfirsch commented: “Agoda is proud to partner with DOT to encourage inbound travel, collaborate on training and development programs, and support growth across the many incredible tourist destinations in the Philippines. By combining DOT’s leadership with Agoda’s expertise, we will entice more travellers to visit the Philippines while elevating the tourism industry as a whole.”

The partnership also highlights the shared commitment between Agoda and the DOT to promote the Philippines as a welcoming, safe, and accessible destination for domestic and international travellers. Through Agoda’s global network of accommodations, flights, and activities, and the DOT’s destination management initiatives, the joint partnership aims to deliver practical benefits to tourism businesses, empower tourism professionals, and enhance traveller confidence.

(Source: Agoda)

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This momentum is further complemented by the country’s strong tourism and cultural ties with neighbouring Muslim-majority countries, such as Brunei, Indonesia, and Malaysia, within the Brunei Darussalam–Indonesia–Malaysia–Philippines East ASEAN Growth Area (BIMP-EAGA).

Recently recognised by Mastercard-CrescentRating as a rising Muslim-friendly destination and ranked 8th among non-OIC destinations in the 2025 Global Muslim Travel Index (GMTI), the Philippines continues to gain international recognition for its efforts in advancing halal- and Muslim-friendly tourism. 

Across the archipelago, travellers can now experience a growing range of accommodations, halal-certified dining establishments, cultural attractions, and tourism services designed to support the faith-based needs of Muslim travellers while offering authentic cultural and heritage experiences.

Beyond tourism infrastructure, the Philippines is also investing in workforce development, destination preparedness, and cultural awareness initiatives to strengthen the delivery of halal and Muslim-friendly tourism services nationwide. 

The Department of Tourism (DOT) continues to support this growth by implementing its Muslim-Friendly Accommodation Establishment (MFAE) Recognition Program across hotels and tourism establishments, while also encouraging halal certification among restaurants, accommodations, and tourism service providers nationwide.

Growing Halal travel experiences

Muslim-friendly tourism infrastructure continues to expand across the Philippines, supported by the DOT’s nationwide halal tourism development initiatives. To date, the DOT has officially recognised 67 Muslim-Friendly Accommodation Establishments (MFAEs) across the country, reflecting the Philippines’ continuing commitment to strengthening its halal and Muslim-friendly tourism ecosystem. Leading this effort is Megaworld Hotels & Resorts, the first hotel chain in the Philippines to achieve 100% MFAE recognition across all of its properties, further reinforcing the country’s growing portfolio of Muslim-friendly accommodations.

Through various training and capacity-building initiatives conducted by the DOT, an estimated 3,000 tourism frontliners and stakeholders nationwide have received specialised training on the fundamentals of halal, understanding Muslim travellers and guests, and the importance of culturally sensitive and respectful service. 

Boracay continues to strengthen its position as a Muslim-friendly island destination through initiatives such as Marhaba Boracay, which features an 800-sqm beach cove dedicated to Muslim families. Boracay, Cebu, Cagayan de Oro, Davao City, and Metro Manila continue to feature a growing number of halal-certified dining establishments, prayer facilities, and tourism services designed to support the needs and comfort of Muslim travellers.

Beyond accommodations and dining, the Philippines offers Muslim travellers opportunities to experience the country’s rich cultural diversity through heritage tours, island and nature experiences, vibrant local communities, and visits to Islamic heritage sites across Mindanao. From pristine beaches and tropical islands to dynamic urban centres and cultural destinations, the country continues to position itself as a welcoming destination where Muslim travellers can enjoy meaningful journeys grounded in hospitality, inclusivity, and cultural understanding.

Engagement with Muslim travel markets

The Department of Tourism continues to strengthen its engagement with key Muslim travel markets, including the Middle East and neighbouring Muslim-majority countries such as Brunei, Indonesia, and Malaysia. Through international promotions, tourism collaborations, targeted destination campaigns, and the Muslim-Friendly Travelogue of the Philippines, the country continues to highlight its expanding tourism offerings, accessibility, and commitment to inclusive travel experiences. The three-volume travelogue series showcases the Philippines through curated features on halal and local cuisine, diverse tourism destinations, and the country’s growing Muslim-friendly tourism initiatives and experiences.

Direct connectivity from key international gateways to destinations such as Manila, Cebu, and Clark allows access to the country’s tourism destinations. In contrast, domestic connectivity supports multi-destination travel across the archipelago. 

(Source: Philippines Department of Tourism)

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Long overshadowed by larger regional markets dominated by international operators, the Philippines is increasingly gaining recognition for a new generation of homegrown hospitality brands focused on design, wellness, personalised service, and experience-led stays.

Among the companies helping to drive momentum is The Lind Hotels, an independently developed Filipino hospitality group that has steadily built a reputation through lifestyle-led destinations, strong culinary programming, wellness, and a distinctly Filipino approach to hospitality.

“Our philosophy is that Philippine hospitality can resonate globally while remaining proudly Filipino,” said Lind Hotels COO Pierre Henrichs. “Authenticity, warmth, creativity, and emotional connection are what travellers increasingly remember most.”

At the centre of the group’s success is The Lind Boracay, located on White Beach Station 1, widely regarded as Boracay’s most exclusive stretch of shoreline. The property is distinguished not only by its rare direct beachfront access, but also by an evolving guest experience that places intuitive hospitality and meaningful guest connection at the heart of the stay.

A defining milestone came in 2025 when the MICHELIN Guide made its Philippine debut. In a landmark moment for both the company and the wider industry, The Lind Boracay became the first and only hotel in Boracay to be featured by the guide, positioning the independent Filipino brand alongside internationally recognised hospitality names.

A key part of the resort’s evolution is its long-standing collaboration with The Spa Wellness, one of the Philippines’ pioneering wellness operators and the country’s first spa brand to receive Superbrand status. An accredited member of the International Spa Association (ISPA), The Spa Wellness brings an established wellness philosophy to the resort environment, helping to shape a more holistic guest experience centred on restoration, balance, and meaningful care.

Over the past decade, the group has continued refining every aspect of the guest journey, from food and beverage and wellness to lifestyle programming and personalised service.

The company’s recent evolution forms part of a broader reassessment undertaken during its 10th anniversary year, when The Lind Hotels also introduced a refreshed brand identity centred around human connection, meaningful hospitality, and more experience-driven travel.

The rebrand marked a return to the company’s core philosophy: fostering stronger people-to-people relationships across teams, travel partners, suppliers, and guests, while placing greater emphasis on the guest journey from the very first stage of trip planning through to the stay itself.

“As part of our 10-year milestone, we went back to the drawing board and asked ourselves where we were ten years ago and where we are today,” Henrichs said. “The entire brand has been refreshed. More than anything, we wanted to return to the human side of hospitality and focus on genuine connection at every touchpoint of the guest experience.”

Looking ahead, the company’s future developments in Coron and Siargao reflect both confidence in Philippine tourism and growing international demand for more meaningful, nature-driven, and experience-led travel.

At a time when travellers are increasingly prioritising authenticity over standardisation, brands like The Lind Hotels are helping demonstrate that world-class hospitality experiences can be created in the Philippines while remaining closely connected to local culture, people, and place.

“We believe the Philippines has the potential to become one of the world’s great hospitality destinations,” Henrichs said. “There is incredible warmth here, extraordinary natural beauty, and a growing confidence among Filipino brands to create experiences that feel globally relevant while remaining distinctly local.”

(Source: Lind Hotels)

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