Transfer of Domestic Routes to PAL Express Upsets Passengers

The decision by Philippine Airlines to transfer the majority of its domestic network to its subsidiary PAL Express has earned the airline negative backlash in social media channels. The airline announced last month that all domestic routes would be transferred to PAL Express on August 1 with the exception of routes to Cebu, Davao, and Kalibo. 

Copyright Photo: Angelo Agcamaran/PPSG

On Facebook, Harold Brian Geronimo, the Director for Strategic Marketing and Communications at Megaworld Corporation, expressed his frustration with the decision. "How I wish there will be Singapore Airlines or Cathay Pacific serving our domestic flights once PAL transfers all of its domestic operations to PAL Express," said Geronimo. "No more business class and everything is prepaid including preferred seats." Mike David, another Facebook user, commented that Philippine Airlines is cheaper than Cebu Pacific, particularly if you travel with check-in baggage.

Ramon Ang, President of Philippine Airlines, assured customers that the decision to expand its code share partnership with PAL Express would not affect passengers negatively and that both airlines would share the same exceptional standards of safety and customer service. "The expanded code share will allow Philippine Airlines to continue to expand its network and optimize its existing fleet and resources while giving customers more choices in terms of destinations, flights, and schedules," said Ang. "This is being done to allow the flag carrier to service more routes and ensure seamless connectivity between stops while awaiting delivery of PAL's new Airbus aircraft to complete its fleet." Philippine Airlines added that the decision to expand the code share agreement with PAL Express would not result in the discontinuing of services to any domestic destination. 

Avelino Zapanta, a former President of Philippine Airlines, said that the new strategy of San Miguel Corporation is a good one. "This will allow PAL Express to compete," said Zapanta. "The strategy is good because both parties can concentrate on their respective core competencies suited to their respective fleet."

Zapanta added that he supports the move but noted that Philippine Airlines will have a challenge earning back its status as the country's number one carrier in terms of passengers, destinations, and aircraft. "But that is not as important as the economics of the operation," Zapanta added. "PAL employees will still enjoy the benefits of flying domestic through PAL Express."