The COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 drastically altered the trajectory for most airlines. While there were high hopes for significant growth in the airline industry globally, the year turned out to be one of setbacks instead. Notably, in 2020, Philippine Airlines (PAL) had plans to launch flights between Manila and Seattle starting May 3, 2020. However, this plan was axed, and the reason is quite apparent.
Just yesterday, December 11, 2023, during the PAL Christmas Tree lighting at Ninoy Aquino Terminal 1, a news report surfaced suggesting that PAL might add a new US route in 2024. While no specific destination was announced, hints pointed to a city on the West Coast.
Connecting the dots, Seattle seems a likely option. However, PAL President and COO has stated that this is still under study and depends on the upcoming leased widebody aircraft the airline will receive.
PR128 and PR129
Originally, PAL’s plan in May 2020 was for three weekly flights between Manila and Seattle. The proposed PR128 from Manila to Seattle was scheduled to depart at 10:45 PM local time and arrive at 7:45 PM local time. The return flight, PR129, from Seattle to Manila, was slated to leave at 11:05 PM Seattle time and arrive at 3:35 AM Manila time (+2 days). The Airbus A350-900 was intended for this ~6,660-mile route, with a flight duration of 12 hours eastbound and 13 hours and 30 minutes westbound.
If PAL does introduce a Seattle route, they might retain the same flight numbers but alter the frequency.
Will PAL Also Bring Back its Cebu – Los Angeles Flights?
Another plan in May 2020 was to revive PAL’s Cebu to Los Angeles flights, which also did not materialize due to the pandemic. The intention was to operate three weekly flights, designated as PR152 from Cebu to Los Angeles and PR153 for the return leg.
This route could help alleviate congestion at the heavily trafficked NAIA terminal, providing direct connectivity between the US and the VisMin region. Furthermore, with Mactan Cebu International Airport’s Terminal 2, the airport is well-equipped to support such flights and operations.
So, will PAL’s newest US destination be Seattle? While PAL hasn’t confirmed any specific route yet, historical plans may offer some insight. For now, I’ll await an official announcement from PAL.
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