Philippine Airlines is an underrated Asia pacific based airlines, and is the flagship carrier for the Philippines. I flew them twice, from Japan to Manila, and Manila to Bangkok. I flew on both their A321 Product, as well as their 777-300. The service and comfort was impeccable in both. You really can’t go wrong.
The Seat
For the purpose of this review I will talk about the larger, more interesting seat on the 777-300. It’s a large, firm recliner that stretches out to an almost flat orientation. It doesn’t sound like it, but it is actually quite comfortable. You get an unbelievable amount of space. With 21 seats in a 2-3-2 orientation all facing one way. It does wonders for my back that gets easily fatigued by the herringbone or cross orientated seats on American Airlines and Singapore on the same jet. It’s quite a stark difference when I compare it to the JAL flight I took earlier in the week with 49 seats and 6 Apex suites in the same amount of square footage.
The Food
I ordered chicken for both flights, one of which was a sweet and sour chicken, the other more of an Asian “Pinoy Barbecue”. Both fantastic. I really cannot get over their haagen-dazs ice cream either.
If you want a sweet tropical treat, you should also try their four seasons drink. One of the 4 options they give you as a welcome drink in business class.
The Service
Their service is what really makes them underrated. I didn’t feel they were any less attentive or nice as the Japanese carriers. Their fluency in English is also a nice plus, I had no miscommunications on either flights. Something else I enjoyed about their service was how quick and efficient they were, at least in the sky. I cannot believe how this isn’t reflected on the ground.
sigh…
But if I only think of the service on the plane. What a great experience!
The Overall Score
Philippine Airlines is definitely turning around. From the brink of bankruptcy to an excellent airline with world class service. They truly deserve their 4-star Skytrax rating. If you are looking for great food and free flowing drinks from an attentive staff on better-than-average seats. You will have no problem on the Philippines flagship carrier. I give them
5/5
It’s an experience you won’t want to miss. You can truly feel the heart of the filipino.