Philippine Airlines’ new non-stop Perth to Manila takes flight

West Australians keen to explore the diverse islands of the Philippines have a fresh connection to its bustling capital of Manila, as Philippine Airlines’ debut non-stop service from Perth finally takes to the sky.

Shaving four to six hours off alternate travel times, the thrice-weekly A321neo flight – equipped with the fully flat business class – marks an end to a decade-long absence from Perth, after briefly serving it via Darwin in 2013 before abandoning the route the same year.

Plans were previously floated to commence the service back in 2019, with a tentative launch date in late March 2020. However, the pandemic pulled the rug out before wheels even left the ground.

Although a single-aisle plane, the PAL A321neo provides three rows of flatbed business class seating in a 2-2 configuration, providing a comfortable option for the seven hour flight.

Business class aboard Philippine Airlines' Airbus A321neos is a secluded affair, with 12 seats across three rows.

PR223 bids farewell to Manila at 12:05am local time every Monday, Thursday and Saturday, touching down in Perth at 7:15am.

On the return, PR224 from Perth also takes off those same three days, leaving Terminal 1 at 8:30am and landing in Manila at 3:50pm local time.

With 7,641 islands (to be precise) surrounded by white-sand beaches and home to dramatic volcanic landscapes, not to mention an intriguing cultural mix, warm locals and sensational cuisine, the Philippines is one of South East Asia’s best kept secrets.

Put your feet up and relax in Philippine Airlines' Airbus A321neo business class.

PAL President and COO Captain Stanley K. Ng says the Filipino flag carrier is “thrilled to welcome Western Australians aboard our flights for the shortest hop to the island wonders of the Philippines, where friendly people, spectacular beaches, natural treasures, a rich history and great shopping opportunities are waiting to be discovered.”

Perth is the airline’s fourth Australian gateway, joining Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane, all of which are served with nonstop flights using Airbus A330 and A321neo aircraft. With the addition of Perth, PAL’s total from Australia has soared to 20 per week.

Philippine Airlines doesn’t have a partner airline in Australia and isn’t a member of a global alliance, although its Mabuhay Miles frequent flyer program is free to join.