PAL Enhances US-West Coast Connectivity with A350-1000; AirAsia Expands Southern Taiwan Access

PAL Enhances US-West Coast Connectivity with A350-1000; AirAsia Expands Southern Taiwan Access

By Bing Jabadan – TheNATIONWEEK.com | October 29, 2026

MANILA, Philippines – Filipino travelers are set to benefit from enhanced international connectivity as both AirAsia Philippines and Philippine Airlines (PAL) significantly boost their services to key global destinations. These strategic expansions underscore the airlines’ commitment to providing more accessible and premium travel options, particularly as peak holiday seasons approach.

AirAsia Philippines Unlocks Southern Taiwan with Increased Kaohsiung Flights and Pingtung Partnership

AirAsia Philippines is deepening its commitment to connecting Filipinos with Southern Taiwan, escalating its Manila–Kaohsiung service from four to seven flights weekly starting this October. This increased frequency directly opens doors for travelers to explore Kaohsiung and beyond, reaching destinations like Pingtung, Taiwan’s southernmost county, a mere 25-minute drive from Kaohsiung International Airport.

In a move to further enrich the travel experience, AirAsia Philippines has forged a strategic partnership with the Pingtung County Government. This collaboration aims to introduce Pingtung’s unique culture, diverse experiences, and scenic landscapes to the Philippine market.

“Taiwan remains a top route for us, driven by strong Filipino interest in international travel,” stated Anna Victoria Lu, President & General Manager of AirAsia Philippines. “Working with the Pingtung County Government allows us to uncover new destinations, offering travelers more options, especially as they plan their holiday getaways.”

Vice Director Jui-yu Chang of the Pingtung County Government’s Transportation and Tourism Department highlighted Pingtung’s distinct appeal: “Pingtung offers a chance to discover another side of Taiwan, beyond the usual night markets. From vibrant Indigenous traditions and stunning coastlines to farm activities, ocean adventures, and natural hot springs, it showcases the island’s rich culture and natural beauty.”

This partnership particularly targets Filipinos who have previously visited Taiwan, encouraging them to return and explore a different facet of the island. Pingtung’s geographical proximity to the Philippines, separated by the Bashi Channel from Batanes, further strengthens this unique connection.

Discover Pingtung’s Unique Experiences:

• Shanchuan Glass Suspension Bridge: A 262-meter bridge adorned with glass bead-inspired designs celebrating the Paiwan and Rukai Indigenous cultures, offering breathtaking views of Pingtung’s lush mountains.
• Shatao Glass Art Space: Experience the intricate artistry of traditional glass bead-making.
• V.I.P. Zone Japanese-style Dormitory Group: Explore century-old Japanese-inspired streets and houses, ideal for a cultural biking tour.
• National Museum of Marine Biology and Aquarium – “Sleep with the Fishes”:  An unparalleled overnight adventure allowing guests to sleep within the aquarium amidst beluga whales and other marine life.
• Eluanbi Lighthouse: Taiwan’s southernmost landmark, surrounded by greenery and ocean views, located directly across the sea from Itbayat, Batanes.

Taiwan’s appeal is further bolstered by its affordability and visa-free access. Data from the Department of Tourism projects Taiwan among the top three overseas destinations for Filipinos in 2026, a trend mirrored in AirAsia Philippines’ booking data, where Taipei and Kaohsiung rank among the airline’s top five international destinations for the same year.

AirAsia Philippines enhances the journey to Kaohsiung with value-added options. The Value Pack bundles checked baggage, seat selection, Santan meals, and travel inconvenience coverage, available for purchase up to four hours before departure. Travelers can also savor Filipino favorites like JT’s Inasal and Beef Tapa onboard (meals from PHP 300). The no-limit baggage option allows multiple bags within a purchased 20kg to 60kg total allowance, with each bag weighing no more than 32kg.

Philippine Airlines Elevates Manila–San Francisco Route with Flagship A350-1000

Philippine Airlines (PAL) is enhancing its Manila–San Francisco service by deploying its flagship Airbus A350-1000 daily. This upgrade provides Filipinos on the U.S. West Coast with daily access to PAL’s newest long-haul experience, offering an elevated journey with more premium seating options ahead of the busiest travel season.

San Francisco stands as one of PAL’s most critical North American gateways, serving as a vital link to the extensive Filipino-American community. This A350-1000 deployment offers customers unparalleled access to the airline’s premier long-haul product. Passengers from San Francisco can also enjoy seamless connections through Manila to various destinations across the Philippines and the Asia-Pacific region.

Designed for ultimate long-haul comfort, PAL’s Airbus A350-1000 features 42 Business Class suites in a 1-2-1 configuration, 24 Premium Economy seats, and 316 Economy Class seats. Across all cabins, passengers are treated to 4K inflight entertainment screens, inflight Wi-Fi, in-seat power, and both USB-A and USB-C charging ports, ensuring entertainment, productivity, and connectivity throughout their journey.

As the newest and largest aircraft in PAL’s fleet, the A350-1000 also delivers improved fuel efficiency, greater operational flexibility, and expanded cargo capacity. This supports the airline’s continued growth while enhancing sustainability and reliability across its long-haul operations.

Flights PR 104 and PR 105 are available for booking via the PAL website, mobile app, ticket offices, and accredited travel agents.

PAL’s San Francisco Schedule (All times are local):

• Until October 31, 2026:
• PR 104 Manila-San Francisco – Daily, departing Manila at 11:15 PM, arriving in San Francisco at 8:45 PM
• PR 105 San Francisco-Manila – Daily, departing San Francisco at 11:40 PM, arriving in Manila at 5:35 AM

• Effective November 1, 2026:
• PR 104 Manila-San Francisco – Daily, departing Manila at 11:15 PM, arriving in San Francisco at 7:45 PM
• PR 105 San Francisco-Manila – Daily, departing San Francisco at 10:40 PM, arriving in Manila at 5:35 AM

Through continuous investments in modern aircraft and an expanding international network, Philippine Airlines steadfastly connects people and the Philippines to the world, always with care.

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