After being in service for over eight decades, flag carrier Philippine Airlines being the oldest airline in Asia is currently undergoing a significant transformation journey from an aged legacy carrier to a more modern airline. Speaking at the airline’s anniversary event last week, Chief Operating Officer Stanley Ng revealed numerous new programs the changing airline undertook this year.
All new programs and improved developments are geared towards elevating the passenger experience, including new routes and enhanced service innovations. Among the new programs mentioned, Ng highlighted that Philippine Airlines would soon offer a new Port-to-Door service.
Hassle-free cargo deliveriesSince emerging strongly from Chapter 11 early last year and while global restrictions were slowly lifted, Philippine Airlines emphasized a heavier focus on cargo operations to avoid dependency on a single revenue stream. The airline dedicated most of its fleet to cargo-only flights until travel for air demand picked up.
Last year, the airline carried a total of 22.96 million kilograms of domestic cargo and approximately 55.46 million kilograms of international shipment. Satisfied with an alternative revenue stream, Philippine Airlines still dedicates some of its Boeing 777-300ERs to cargo operations today.
But similar to how the airline wants to improve the flying experience for passengers, it also wishes to strengthen the freight experience for customers, so the Port-to-Door service will eventually be introduced in the coming months. Ng described the new service as:
“We will soon roll out a new feature called Port-to-Door Service, where cargo customers can have their shipments delivered hassle-free to their doorstep. We are proud of this innovation because it will benefit SMEs and make shipment and last-mile delivery seamless and convenient for customers.”
Following the modern trendsBesides the new Port-to-Door cargo service, Philippine Airlines also announced that a new Mabuhay Lounge would be opened later this year for international departures at Manila’s Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 1. The new lounge will feature a contemporary design suited to a younger, trendier vibe.
Fitted with a food and beverage buffet service, the new lounge will also have shower rooms and free WiFi to highlight a premium haven suited for the perfect pre-flight work or relaxation. Philippine Airlines hopes that the new lounge design and amenities will reflect its modernized brand of customer service.
The efforts to elevate the passenger experience don’t stop there, as the flag carrier will also be introducing the Anniversary Menu for business class passengers to North America and Australia. The new menu will include dishes like Tiger Prawn Sinigang, Adlai Champorado, and many more, featuring a gastronomic journey of bolder flavors and unique textures.
A year of growing transformationsThere are currently no specific dates when these new services and products will officially roll out, but they are still undoubtedly something for passengers to eagerly look forward to.
