Ha! Finally someone is brave enough to vlog about our Chaotic Airports. Filipino planners are totally bad planners. They only think now and not about the possible expansion and growth of passengers in the future. Good and honest vlog sir.
You're very welcome. Yeah I was looking online and there isn't a lot of videos about PAL and NAIA?! Which is strange given the amount of traffic going through it. Well, supposedly the new airport will solve at the woes of this present one. We'll see, eh?
seeing the airports of other southeast Asian neighboring countries .....ours is a mere BUS STATION concept......so poor & unpatriotic mismanagements......shame, shame.
I've flown PAl quite a few times,once in a while business class and all I have to say is that I love their crew's demeanor,I have kids in Pinas and so I visit twice a year and is always a good experience,plus the food reminds me of Cuba where I was born.
You are correct sadly to premium competition from Japan Taiwan South Korea Singapore and Hong Kong will always undercut PR 2 North America importantly the same Airlines from the 5 countries are in an airline alliance making them advantageous
The trick with NAIA 2 is to wait in the open areas just outside of the gate you're departing. This allows you to freely roam and go to the toilet without having to go through security checks again which is painfully annoying. I agree NAIA 2 is very stuffy and warm and doesn't help when majority of their international flights fly at the same time. Great entertaining video thanks!
Thank you so much for sharing what you have observed about NAIA T2 and PAL’s Mabuhay Louge. You are correct about the terminal that it was supposed to be for domestic terminal use. Concur with you, the terminal is cramped and cannot handle that much passenger traffic. I like the colorful/descriptive words about your inflight food. Hopefully terminal management and airline management do something about the shortfalls that you have noted on this vlog. I stumble on your vlog please keep up the good work in documenting your travels and posting them.
My first time watching your reviews. I was looking at flying Phillipines Airlines to Manila so stumbled upon this. I’m glad I did. I like your detailed reviews, your humour made me press the subscribe button. The Manila airport was a nightmare, thanks for the warning. Great service on the plane & fun commentary. Safe travels, look forward to your next video.
PAL and Phil. airport are both so frustrating especially PAL... last time I went home last May....my God their toilet is like public toilet was so filthy...and I bought wifi expensive and Im not able to use it bec its per min use and the they said there part that wifi is strong most of the time no...so its not fair for the passenger if that is the case....and then my son is a diabetic so he drinks a lot of water... going to Phil no problem bec I bought 2 big bottles of Fiji, when you buy water after checking in in JFK no issue, but going back to US they are not allowing us to bring water even you bought the water after you checked in...its okay, but the PAL give you only limited water, they told us that their water supply is enough only for normal consumption they cannot give my son more water ...I was so mad...so for how many hours my son was not able to drink water...IF I COULD SLAP THEIR FACES I WILL DO IT...MINURA KO SILA SA TH-cam AND FACEBOOK...at ang refund ko noong kinasel nila ang flight ko, more than a year bago nila binigay sa akin....
Thanks for this review, mate. About to take a PAL business class flight from SYD to MNL for this first time this year and checking reviews especially versus other business class experience. Cheers for this mate!
Sir Ryan. Thank you for choosing to fly Philippine Airlines our Flag Carrier 🇵🇭 Looking forward in serving you in Business Class in your next Virgin Australia Flight to Adelaide.
Great video! Looking forward to flying business with PA. Seems for the price point a pretty solid long haul business class service. I really like that they checked the toilet before you entered. I have been on long haul BC flights before where prev grubby pax have left toilet in a S T A T E lol - You have me worried about transit in same airport though…
PAL is in the process of moving their ops to T1 as we speak. Though not perfect, it's a FAR bigger space than T2. That should alleviate some of that horrid congestion you saw in my video.
Ok, sir nice to know your okay to reach your country of destination. I'm happy that the flights you made was explained to good Have a happy trip again. Thank you and god bless
Hi, Ryan! We're thrilled to hear that you enjoyed your flight with us and that you found our service impressive! 😊 Thank you for choosing Philippine Airlines, and we're honored to be recognized as the world's most under-rated flag carrier. Your feedback means a lot to us, and we're constantly striving to make every flight with us a perfect experience for our beloved passengers. If there's anything specific you think we could improve on, please feel free to share. We can't wait to welcome you back on board soon! ❤
hi i feel that its best Philippine airline can upgrade all the old business class flights to this new version. hoping to see this ! the menu taken out also takes away the exclusivity and differentiation to any business class with the economy. thk u Philippine airlines ,,,
@@joaanyu1479 this flight was taken when COVID restrictions were still active in the Philippines. Which explains the lack of menus and the "modified" inflight service.
very informative , soon i will be flying business from syd to pus with 22 hrs transit time . My Philippino friend told me T1 can be more chaotic as T2 is dedicated to PAL.
the brand new CEBU-Mactan International Airport is beautiful, spacious and Modern from what I have seen here on TH-cam. It has received rave reviews from Vloggers. But I dont think theres nonstop flights there to Australia which is odd since theres lots of Australians that visit Cebu.
@@ryansofly I highly recommend for you to try Cathay Pacific, EVA or Singapore Airlines when visiting Cebu! I am from Cebu originally, living in London now and every time I visit home, I always make sure to avoid Manila. It's just not worth the stress. Looking forward for your Cebu video, soon!
PAL certainly hides its light under a bushel ! Great video, thanks. When PAL returned to London a few years ago there was virtually no promotion in the UK except for the Filipino market here. Initially PAL had no Russian overflying rights so MNL-LHR non-stop would take around 15 hours. During the pandemic PAL ceased its London flights (except for a few 'rescue' services) and now it's leased its LHR slot to BA. I am sure PAL will return at some stage but it must bear in mind that much of its Europe-MNL market is now lost to indirect rivals.
Manila is just too far away from Western Europe. Direct flight would require soo much fuel to burn. So it would never be as cheap as the other competitors.
I can totally relate this to my previous experience back in Oct 2022. Philippine Airlines is under-rated and I would love to fly with them again. The thing that would turn me away is its terminal. As you mentioned, cramp, crowded and not user friendly. I walked around and try to find the kind of huge screen with all departing flights' info, there is none The secondary security screening was exactly the gate I boarded my MNL-KUL flight. I was sitting somewhere close to it. The boarding announcement was so soft. I wouldn't want to risk my travel plan to transit in MNL despite the fare is attractive. MNL needs a major uplift or a new airport.
There is a new airport on the way thankfully! That should solve all the highlighted problems. Mate, I watch your videos all the time! Thanks for popping by!
That was a great video, and I thank you very much! The only difference is I believe Philippine Airlines is a very average airlines. I travel from Honolulu to Manila 4 -5 times a year in business class and I think it’s just So so. Last time I flew with ANA in a business class, and I was overwhelmed by how awesome it was. As far as I’m concerned, Philippine Airlines is going down. Mabuhay Club food selection is really bad in Domestic and international lounges.
Indeed, while the on board product is ok the airport and lounge experience was weak. With the new airport hopefully you will solve the woes for transit.
Damn those lines are long, that lounge has me excited for the singapore airlines one next year! Keep up the great video! Sadly that meal doesn’t compete with Qatar😂
Terminal 2 happens to be the smallest among the 3 terminals used for international flights. PAL should transfer some of their flights to the nearby and bigger terminal 1. Or transfer all their domestic flights to either terminal 1, 3, or 4. And use the whole of terminal 2 only for their international flights.
Ryan, thanks so much for sharing. I was considering flying home from SG to MEL on PAL, but that Terminal 2 looks scary and we won't be flying in the pointy end of the plane 😆😄😁 might have to think of a different option. I'm looking forward to checking out the hawker centers in SG, especially a couple of the food emporiums located at MRT stations.
Someone had to say it and yes the airport situation in MNL isn’t pleasant especially in terminal 2. They have gonna move things around and from what I’ve read Terminal 2 should be a domestic terminal around July since PAL international flights will be moving to Terminal 1. I’ve flown PAL plenty of times and I’ve noticed that they have put a lot of effort into improving their service on board along with updating some of the hard products. But they do have a lot of planes that should also be updated
Yes T2 isn't designed for international ops, and it shows. As I mentioned in my conclusion, i would not do this trip in economy class with no lounge access. I cannot imagine being plonked into that chaos for so many hours out there with nowhere to sit! It's crazy!
Hold on about Terminal 2: they have: 1. Jollibee !!! 2. Great desks inside to the left with usb ports. Loved PAL staff next to Jollibee: they could put me on the last flight to Cebu at midnight.
You'll have to direct that question to PAL, mate. This was my first time in NAIA so you're guess is as good as mine. For that 10 hours, why not head out into Manila? It'll be so much more interesting than staying at the airport.
You missed the joys of going through Immigration at Manila airport! Chaos! I flown Domestically from Manila airport and is the same chaos! Manila airport looking very old and tired. That business class cabin looked very nice! Service and food very nice too. I now need a reason to get back to Philippines (hahaha as if I need a 'reason' to go) so can try Philippines Airline for the first time.
Hahahahaha you and I do not need a reason to travel and eat. We just do. I was told it is a lot less chaotic in T3. Really curious why PAL wasn't allocated to the newest terminal instead of being stuck in T2.
Great flight review. I thought T1 at Manila airport was bad, T2 is on the next level, unless things have changed. I’ve heard some dodgy things about Skytrax. I will not believe their ratings. Be looking forward to seeing your next video
Great review, crazy scenes at the airport. The food, although not my cup of tea looks really good. Hope you don't mind - I am going to share this on my blog on Saturday. Melbourne Airport is a shocker. and after all the baggage handlers were sacked during covid Qantas do not what they are doing, they are trying to save a buck everywhere and passengers are the ones that suffer.
Yeah MEL has always been a shocker of an airport for a long time way before covid-19. Especially is you're visiting for the first time, its just not a very good first impression. Yeah by all means share it, link me in too if you don't mind! Thanks for watching...
Hi Ryan, I am going Taipei in Oct and can't decide if I want to fly with PAL on business class. I saw on your video that you had to take pain killer for your back pain on the flight. Was it due to the flat bed that caused the pain? My other concern is also that the layover time in Manila back to Melbourne is just an hour which is the main factor that pulls me off booking the flight for now. Do you reckon flying with PAL is a wise choice? The fare difference between PAL and CX is about A$1000 which is pretty substantially. Your advice would really be appreciated. By the way, I was also a Singaporean and now Australian living in Melbourne ☺.
By all means... Fly PAL! They are operating out of T1 in MNL now with a swanky new lounge so the issues I laid out for T2 in this video are not valid anymore. Nah, the back pain was caused by something stupid I did, which you'll see at the beginning of this video... th-cam.com/video/hhjYNfsh-wg/w-d-xo.html
@@ryansofly Thanks so much for your prompt reply. I have seen reviews with very negative comments on TH-cam and was hesitating whether to go ahead with PAL. I will proceed with the booking and hopefully the flight is going to be a good one. Don't believe it can be any worst than China Eastern business class 😆 Hope your back is now fully recovered. 🤗
@@corinasom1729 hahahaha damn right! As long as you manage your expectations. Think about it, the Filipinos... They'll make you feel like you've known them for 10 years. At least my crew was chatty. Aiya, my back... Old man problems lah. I cannot be jumping about like a spring chicken anymore.
Hi Ryan, at 19:20 when you start to talk about your back spasms and trouble sleeping, are you attributing this problem to the seat and PAL? Or is this a pre-existing condition you have? I ask as I am due to fly to London via Manila soon and was looking to book Business or First class for one leg of the trip. Thank you. P.S. Customs on departure at both International Terminals in Manila is absolutely terrible. Out of all the countries I have visited, Manila is the worst.
th-cam.com/video/hhjYNfsh-wg/w-d-xo.html In that video above, I hurt myself doing that stunt in the start of the video 😆... Nah, there's nothing wrong with PAL's seat. It's stock standard Vantage XL, comfortable.
A great flight report, the food looked tastier than any Grindr date ever! 😂 And you are too kind, I have a long list of people that I would quite happily let sit in economy class at that airport - for a week 😈😂🥂
The transit experience will hopefully become better if not best with the opening of New Manila Internation Airport in Bulacan in 3-4 years time. Hopefully by then the whole travel experience will be for the better.
WOW WOW WOW! It pains me to say this but it appears PR definitely offers a better in-cabin experience than my fave airline, SQ. I might ahve to consider them for future flights. However, I'm concerned over the transit in Manilla. Their lounge offering is definitely on the same level of the Silverkris lounge.
Ha! Thanks for watching, Tim! While PR's inflight product is no ANA or QR, I found it decent and definitely waaaaaay better than QF. Yeah the transit in MNL, tip... No check in bags! You don't really don't want to be stuck downstairs. Fellow passengers who followed me on the same 2 flights only appeared at the lounge 90 mins after me, upset and swearing never again.
UK airports are also in chaos with regards to check in, security and baggage claim. Manila Term 2 is bad, T3 is much better, but if you can fly in and out of Clark or Cebu it is a breeze.
In fairness it's not all UK airports and much will depend on the day and time you travel plus the terminal you use. Amsterdam Schiphol takes the biscuit for the worse delays (but mainly on departure) and it has had to cap capacity (because it cannot cope with current traveller numbers) until end 2022.
I am so glad you love filipino food specially when you choose the bangus asado over roast beef i feel somewhat proud of it❤ and when you sign thumbs up😅 and then the corn pudding as your dessert your already a filipino hahaha just joking. I also love the bangus❤as well. I did not get bored watching your vlog Ryan though its more of talking and i had to listen well to fully understand you😆. More power and stay safe
agreed with you that PAL is an under rated flag carrier but MNL terminal let them down let hope they improve the facilities at MNL to make PAL rise again as one of the Asian leading carrier
great vid. melbourne is a shambles and embarrassment of an airport when it comes to airside amenities. that said, recently returned from overseas travel and got our bags without a hitch.
Great review I just subscribed to your channel. So true about Australian airports, I went overseas in April and it was a shit fight even trying to leave the country as there were 4 security gates out of 17 open in Sydney at that time. Australian airports are an embarrassment when you look at how 3 rd world countries can streamline there airports. I fligh business class on philippine airlines frequently and love there product, leaves Qantas way behind in my opinion.
Thanks for the sub. For SYD, at least we know there's a new airport on the way. But MEL will continue to fester in her current form unfortunately for a while longer.
Having flown to Manila for years since the 90s a lot of us are probably expecting this but man you never get used to it. Especially going through customs? My god it’s a nightmare lmao Also may I add if you’re on a late flight in terminal 2, good luck getting food cause they literally close everything and you’re stranded. It’s not like the Domestic Side at all which has tons of food after checking in. Funny thing about that second checkpoint is that they took away like a whole tub of aloe vera from our bag even tho the previous airport we were in was completely fine with it. Kinda weird inconsistency.
Hahaha... Look, even with the shops opened, good luck trying to buy anything! The cafe was over run it was like a zombie apocalypse. So having a lounge to hide from the chaos made the experience slightly bearable. 🤣 Speaking of inconsistencies... My roller bag got flagged out because I had a power board extension chord in there, which they explained it's a security issue as I could strangle someone with that. Ok fine. But they let me go with my laptop bag... Complete with cables within. 🤦🤷
@@ryansofly that’s strange.. really strange about the cables. Cause when I went on my flight I had like 10+ cables of varying length in a mesh storage pack that I would just take out of my bag and run it through the machine and i was fine lol I’ve never heard of that before Like imagine the drawer full of random clutter. It was basically that
They did not make those announcements, did they? That was soo much funny. I would also like to apologise, it seems that AU citizens are always apologising for the deficiencies of their corporations. Great series, great food, great humour. Thank you and can't wait till the next series.
Hi So I have traveled from the USA to Hong Kong and Philippines airlines to Manila. I didn't know that there is another part of Manila airport until I missed my flight to Davao international Airport. It was so confusing being the first time here. Mark
PR's international flights have since all shifted to Terminal 1 at Manila NAIA - much better. Most nights, PR209 to MEL and PR211 to SYD are the modernised Airbus A333s with the 1-2-1 in business class. Occasionally the flights are the terrible old previous design: 2-2-2, very straneg layout. But I agree PR is extremely underrated. It often runs on time to/from Australia, unlike declining Qantas. The food is also far better (and more extensive) since COVID-19 "ended", and there's now no longer (thankfully) a requirement to wear masks on board. Overall, a good video but with the Manila terminal change, it's no longer a true representation of today's conditions.
I like flying Pal. But on international business class there is only one toilet. Frequently tied up by staff so access is very difficult accompanied by long waits. Once they fix that I will fly much more
Bulkhead closer to the isle is always the best! Especially on that overnight flight…. I’m guessing you chose this seat specifically….More private and up nice and close to the window! I also noticed throughout the video you had the interactive map on screen.. that’s literally what I have going the whole time.. unless I may feel the need to watch 1 movie… From what you mentioned regarding the attention to details and attentiveness of the cabin crew certainly left me impressed… Philippine Airlines have generally been a little low on my list to try… however I may need to re consider that after this video! The bag situation just doesn’t surprise me at all tbh… it’s a shit show atm… I won’t get into what I had to deal with to get back to ADL from SYD the other day… oh via MEL 🤦♂️ Great work Ryan!
Yes the flight map is ALWAYS permanently displayed whenever I fly. In the Vantage XL cabin, I always choose the window for better privacy especially with my filming and such. If you want to do this flight, just make sure you're in JCL for a bearable transit in NAIA. Otherwise its really hell.
PAL is a 4 STAR global airlines.. hence its standard and the quality of its products and services are EXCELLENT AND WAY AHEAD than the majority of airlines worldwide
I will be flying Sydney to Manila in under 3 weeks .. Philippine Airlines Premium Economy Class Last time I traveled back from the Philippines - was a repatriation flight - back to Sydney On that flight , there was only around 20 passengers
Maybe the powers that be rate PAL only 4 stars because of its origin in the stuffy, chaotic Manila airport. It's been a long time the govt plans on relocation to the old Clark air base wc was a former US military base. The reason Manila airport is so small because it's right smack in the middle of a residential area so i don't think there can be any further expansion on it. Thank you for your generous compliments on the total PAL inflight services, the small details. Filipinos love corned beef guisado too 🤤👏👍❤️🇵🇭
Well, we all know to take Skytrax ratings with a pinch of salt. The airline pays for that company's consulting services, get several boxes ticked and voilà, 4 stars awarded. So none of us in the know takes Skytrax seriously, that's why we call them Scamtrax. Hahahaha... You know, I've started making my own corn beef guisado. Delicious, so simple to make.
I have been flying regularly from the UK to Davao in The Philippines for the past 20 years. I would try various airlines so that I could experience stopovers in different countries. Usually I would fly to Manila before catching a domestic flight onwards to Davao NAIA airport, especially terminals 1 and 2 have to be the worst airport experiences I have ever encountered. For the past 8 years or so I now only use Singapore Airlines. I usually stay at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Changi Airport before catching a direct flight to Davao therefore avoiding the chaos in Manila.
@@ryansofly manila will have a new international airport. with this step of the government the chaotic nature of NAIA will be reduced. larger and modern airport.
I’m glad I’m not the only one who pick on whether the logo faces me or not (well at least in J or F) 😂 The service and catering seems pretty good on PR, it does make me wanna give them a try 🥺
How do you like Philippine Airlines so far? Ryan by the way in Singapore Changi if you look at the lines it would be mostly Filipinos going back to Manila even though your flag carrier Singapore Airlines group including Scoot does offer direct tickets to DVO/CRK/CEB and MNL. For the Chinese speaking singaporeans Philippine Airlines is written as this 菲律賓航空. If you are going from Perth Western Australia to Manila you are still better off flying SQ via SIN🇸🇬 over PR223/224 PER🇦🇺-MNL🇵🇭. Speaking of the food between Singapore and Philippine Airlines SQ will always beat PR at all times that includes the longest flights SQ21/23 EWR/JFK-SIN connections to Manila are SQ910/918 from those flights. Knew this because my brothers went on PR127 JFK-MNL with them disliking the food at the same time it's more expensive $1800 than SQ21/918 ticket which would have been at that time less $863-1799
PR is mostly a hit and miss according to most. I got lucky with 2 fantastic flights. In order for a more complete experience, I'd probably need to fly them more. Filipinos and their balik bayan is HUGE business for airlines the world over. SQ is popular with not just the Pinoys, but with Indonesians as well. Other than Singapore, they are the next country with the MOST PPS members. Most are based in Jakarta, which explains why SQ deploys a 4 class equipped 777-300ER between SIN and CGK on some flights. There is an unspoken prestige of flying SQ.
Ryan. Business class in Australia by Qantas has been substandard even prior to the wuhan flu. As Australians we can't do hospitality, it's not in our blood. Having an Irishman as the boss certainly does not help.
Even just these few years, the difference is stark. No more multi course meals with white linen on A330 transcon, warm meals have also disappeared altogether replaced with sandwiches. I could go on. And here we are still paying a premium price for tickets.
Lol yeah the airport terminal was very warm. Only the lounge had some semblance of air conditioning. How do aunties like me survive? Don't fly economy! 🤣
In December it's going to be "Bonjour Paris" as Air France 🇫🇷 is set to restart direct nonstop flights between Manila and Paris Charles De Gaulle, it's "Au Revoir" to tedious layovers when travelling to Europe 🇪🇺. It will be easier for French and European visitors, business people also Filipinos living in Europe coming to the Philippines and for us Schengen Visa holders who regularly travel to Europe. I can't wait to be greeted again with "Bonjour et Bienvenue á Bord" and perhaps a complementary champagne 🥂 would be great 😃. When Air France finally pushes through a big "Content de te Revoir aux Philippines" that's Welcome Back to the Philippines in French.
@@ryansoflyIt's been more than 20 years when Air France last flew to the Philippines and I'm very happy that they're coming back, it's most likely to hire Filipino cabin crew who are French speakers and they have no problem finding them, most of them are in France, Belgium and Switzerland.
@@ryansoflyDid you know that Paris Charles De Gaulle Airport or Aeroport de Paris Charles De Gaulle is located 23km Northeast of the French capital in the town of Roissy in the region of Ilé de France it opened in 1974 it was named after the French WW2 General and Statesman. The airport has excellent road and rail connections to Paris and to the regions in Northern France 🇫🇷.
@@ryansofly It has confirmed that Air France 🇫🇷 will commence on December 08 their direct nonstop flights between Manila and Paris Charles De Gaulle it will be 3x weekly. Hopefully Lufthansa will follow suit.
Getting ready for the first direct nonstop flight to Paris Charles de Gaulle from Manila on December 08 on Air France 🇫🇷, AF 209 will depart Manila at 9:50pm arrive at Paris Charles de Gaulle at 5:50am Central European Time, already booked on Business Class upgraded from Premium Economy, the cabins were upgraded on all classes. Enjoying the exquisite in-flight service and gastronomic delights Par Excellence with menus created by Michelin starred chefs and the finest wines selected by their Sommelier Xavier Thuizat on this 14hr direct flight and on the return flight to Manila. Bon Voyage.
Simple rule of thumb: don't use PAL. Pick an airline that flies out of Terminal 3 if you can!So many of you flying YT channels report on business class flights. It's much more telling to know what their economy service is like. It tells you more about an airline than business/first service.
Ha indeed... Flying in business via T2 made the experience slightly bearable, to be honest. This flight was a small part of a larger booking to take me back to OZ from Asia. So yeah. Thanks for watching!
What about uk citizens passing through arab countries with different mentalities and protocalls getting stressed on way to Philipines? When are Philipine airways going to start flying from the uk again as many dont want to even step foot in arab lands ?
@@thegrandarchitect2274 In fact this summer PAL leased its LHR slots to BA so it won't be returning anytime soon. As you may know slots at LHR are very, very expensive hence PAL decided to lease, rather than sell, its LHR slots.
@@thegrandarchitect2274 No problem. In fact the price of a single slot pair (one arrival and one departure) varies between US$20 and US$75 million depending on time of day, day of the week. LHR is full and so new airlines have to buy or swap slots to gain access.
My disabled son, his partner (Fillipina) and 4 children also Fillippina were treated very badly at this airport. There was one man at check in who seemed to go out of his way to be difficult and followed them around the airport and stopped other workers from helping the family. This guy made them travel across to the airport to pay departure taxes (which apparently due to certain circumstances they did not have to pay) they decided to pay the exit taxes just to be able to leave, it turned out that they were short of the stated fee. A lady preasant stepped forward to loan them the money they were short but the aforementioned guy stepped in front of her and said "no. Don't help them they don't want us in their country (My son is Australian) consequently they missed their flight which i believe was the guys aim as he kept telling them that they were going to miss their flight. They were so so lucky that the gentleman who drove them to the airport, agreed to drive them back to their hotel which they had already paid for that night. Due to the timing of the flight they were able to return to their room and not encounter further fees. The taxi driver was happy to return the next day for his payment ounce my son had time to get some money sent to him. We got the Australian embassy involved and they returned to the airport with the family and of course there were no more problems now that the embassy was involved. Unbeknown to the man who caused so many problems in the first place, he didn't know that i was on video chat for the whole experience. I wrote a long complaint to Philippines airlines and airport but never heard anything back from them. My son managed to get the contact details of the lady who tried to assist them before they staff member intervened. Upon contacting her to thank her for trying to help we discovered that she was a stewardess and her husband was a captain. Because of the circumstances surrounding this flight the Australian government booked the flights and had to now reschedule the flights. I don't think this flight could have been any worse.
God willing once our 2 new airports, (one in Sangley Point International Airport (Cavite City) and second in Bulacan International Airport) finished being constructed could highly improve the passenger experience. If they just moved lots of the international flights especially the lay over ones in Clark International airport, NAIA passengers could had been spared of this kind of horrible experience... Clark International Airport is far better especially facility wise compared to NAIA.
I must say, the A330-300 is much better configured than their 777-300er on long haul. There's much more shelf space around the seat than the 777-300. A big plus is the lay-flat bed versus the angled bed that has your feet dangling on the ground. Flew LAX-MNL R/T business class on the old 777-300er. Never again. The only advantage PAL has is it's a nonstop flight. Now they have competition with United. UNITED have SFO-MNL nonstop flight. Plus UNITED business seats are configured 1-2-1 with 180 degree flat bed versus PAL 2-3-2 foot dangling angled beds. The choice is clear.
I love these 'Covid measures'. Instead of giving you a piece of paper to read, the attendant spends 20 minutes in close proximity to you in order to 'explain' the menu instead.
@@ryansofly I'm flying to Manila in a few months. Hopefully all this madness will be a thing of the past when I get there. By the way, very nice video! The food looks great.
@@ryansofly It won't be business class, so I'll do my best. It's JAL, so I think the food will be passable at least. I'm curious how much you paid for that flight? Always wanted to try business class, maybe I can actually afford it... I'm such a cheapskate I always click on "sort by price" and take the first one.
Ha! Finally someone is brave enough to vlog about our Chaotic Airports. Filipino planners are totally bad planners. They only think now and not about the possible expansion and growth of passengers in the future. Good and honest vlog sir.
You're very welcome. Yeah I was looking online and there isn't a lot of videos about PAL and NAIA?! Which is strange given the amount of traffic going through it. Well, supposedly the new airport will solve at the woes of this present one. We'll see, eh?
They should take a look at Singapore’s Changi Airport as an example of how clean, efficient airports are run.
seeing the airports of other southeast Asian neighboring countries .....ours is a mere BUS STATION concept......so poor & unpatriotic mismanagements......shame, shame.
@@ramonresurreccion3891 let's look forward to the new airport!
@@ryansoflyWhat’s your nationality?
I've flown PAl quite a few times,once in a while business class and all I have to say is that I love their crew's demeanor,I have kids in Pinas and so I visit twice a year and is always a good experience,plus the food reminds me of Cuba where I was born.
Indeed, Filipino food is very tasty. Its almost like Thai food without the spice.
You are damn right! PR is so underrated despite the fact of them being Asia’s first and foremost Airline! Great vlog!
Thanks for watching! Yes PAL used to be the airline Asia airline Asia looked up to back in the good old days.
You are correct sadly to premium competition from Japan Taiwan South Korea Singapore and Hong Kong will always undercut PR 2 North America importantly the same Airlines from the 5 countries are in an airline alliance making them advantageous
Liked your creative choice of words straddling sarcasm and truth. You have a new fan here. Subscribed!
Thanks for your support!
Philippine Airlines Is Another Airlines I Has Not Flown Whit.Great Trip Report
Another great video, thanks Ryan - that Filipino breakfast looked AMAZING !
Yes the food was awesome on PR. I'd do it again in a heartbeat just to eat!
I love your honesty and transparency in this review. Thanks
Glad you enjoyed! Thanks for popping by...
Whoa! That queue is another level! Are there snacks being served between dinner and breakfast?
There are snacks on demand. Chips, packet snacks etc. Otherwise I was in so much pain trying to sleep ... Hahaha...
So glad your channel is growing - absolutely one of my favourite aviation channels!!!
Mate, great to hear from you again. Thanks for your support!
The trick with NAIA 2 is to wait in the open areas just outside of the gate you're departing. This allows you to freely roam and go to the toilet without having to go through security checks again which is painfully annoying. I agree NAIA 2 is very stuffy and warm and doesn't help when majority of their international flights fly at the same time. Great entertaining video thanks!
Thanks for popping by! With the new airport, it will alleviate a lot of woes in NAIA.
Thank you so much for sharing what you have observed about NAIA T2 and PAL’s Mabuhay Louge. You are correct about the terminal that it was supposed to be for domestic terminal use. Concur with you, the terminal is cramped and cannot handle that much passenger traffic. I like the colorful/descriptive words about your inflight food. Hopefully terminal management and airline management do something about the shortfalls that you have noted on this vlog. I stumble on your vlog please keep up the good work in documenting your travels and posting them.
Thank you for your support!
My first time watching your reviews. I was looking at flying Phillipines Airlines to Manila so stumbled upon this. I’m glad I did. I like your detailed reviews, your humour made me press the subscribe button. The Manila airport was a nightmare, thanks for the warning. Great service on the plane & fun commentary. Safe travels, look forward to your next video.
No worries! Thanks for watching!
PAL and Phil. airport are both so frustrating especially PAL... last time I went home last May....my God their toilet is like public toilet was so filthy...and I bought wifi expensive and Im not able to use it bec its per min use and the they said there part that wifi is strong most of the time no...so its not fair for the passenger if that is the case....and then my son is a diabetic so he drinks a lot of water... going to Phil no problem bec I bought 2 big bottles of Fiji, when you buy water after checking in in JFK no issue, but going back to US they are not allowing us to bring water even you bought the water after you checked in...its okay, but the PAL give you only limited water, they told us that their water supply is enough only for normal consumption they cannot give my son more water ...I was so mad...so for how many hours my son was not able to drink water...IF I COULD SLAP THEIR FACES I WILL DO IT...MINURA KO SILA SA TH-cam AND FACEBOOK...at ang refund ko noong kinasel nila ang flight ko, more than a year bago nila binigay sa akin....
Thanks for this review, mate. About to take a PAL business class flight from SYD to MNL for this first time this year and checking reviews especially versus other business class experience. Cheers for this mate!
No worries! Anytime. The fares are normally a lot more reasonable if you aren't departing from OZ.
Sir Ryan. Thank you for choosing to fly Philippine Airlines our Flag Carrier 🇵🇭
Looking forward in serving you in Business Class in your next Virgin Australia Flight to Adelaide.
Kumusta Neptune! Ha! I'm on VA716 on 27 Nov 😄
I love airline food too! Always look forward to what each airline serves its passengers
Think I love airline food and flying in equal measure! Hahaha...
great video with nice voice, mate^^
Great video! Looking forward to flying business with PA. Seems for the price point a pretty solid long haul business class service. I really like that they checked the toilet before you entered. I have been on long haul BC flights before where prev grubby pax have left toilet in a S T A T E lol - You have me worried about transit in same airport though…
PAL is in the process of moving their ops to T1 as we speak. Though not perfect, it's a FAR bigger space than T2. That should alleviate some of that horrid congestion you saw in my video.
Ok, sir nice to know your okay to reach your country of destination. I'm happy that the flights you made was explained to good
Have a happy trip again. Thank you and god bless
Thank you for watching!
Hi, Ryan! We're thrilled to hear that you enjoyed your flight with us and that you found our service impressive! 😊 Thank you for choosing Philippine Airlines, and we're honored to be recognized as the world's most under-rated flag carrier. Your feedback means a lot to us, and we're constantly striving to make every flight with us a perfect experience for our beloved passengers. If there's anything specific you think we could improve on, please feel free to share. We can't wait to welcome you back on board soon! ❤
You're very welcome! Can't wait to be back!
hi i feel that its best Philippine airline can upgrade all the old business class flights to this new version. hoping to see this ! the menu taken out also takes away the exclusivity and differentiation to any business class with the economy. thk u Philippine airlines ,,,
@@joaanyu1479 this flight was taken when COVID restrictions were still active in the Philippines. Which explains the lack of menus and the "modified" inflight service.
"Without a menu, it reminded me of waiting for a blind date from Grindr to turn up" ahahaha Best, line, everrrrr. Thanks for this review. Mabuhay!
I commented too early on in the video. I’m dying with the Pinay V.O. at baggage claim. 🤣😂🤣 Glad you made it back home okay. 💕
Hahaha thanks for watching!
very informative , soon i will be flying business from syd to pus with 22 hrs transit time . My Philippino friend told me T1 can be more chaotic as T2 is dedicated to PAL.
A 22 hr transit in Manila? Why don't you go explore the city? Granted the traffic jams might be a deterrent...
@@ryansofly i will go out and visit mall of Asia
12:21 thank you to inform us about the origine of the airport. Guess that when the new airport will open , this will all be forgotten.
Can't wait for the new airport.
Thank You so Much Mr. RYAN SO. I love Philippine Airlines
They are a pretty decent airline
Thank you for giving us this information ❤ duly noted! 🤔🙂
Good and fair review there. Good job.
Thanks for watching!!!
Mabuhay… impressive presentation. Though u are only transiting, you certainly made the experience in your own presentation great.
Well, maraming salamat po for popping by!
Have subscribed and will be happy to watch more of your videos. God bless
Oh i miss flying with PAL and exactly same business class configuration i sat. PAL did a right choice for their mabuhay class seat for A330 amd A350.
Indeed, the airline can't go wrong with this Thompson Vantage XL. They're so comfy. Thanks for watching the video!
the brand new CEBU-Mactan International Airport is beautiful, spacious and Modern from what I have seen here on TH-cam. It has received rave reviews from Vloggers. But I dont think theres nonstop flights there to Australia which is odd since theres lots of Australians that visit Cebu.
Sadly the traffic between OZ and PH are mostly low yield VFR types. Won't be seeing OZ-Cebu any time soon. Would love to visit Cebu one day though!
@@ryansofly I highly recommend for you to try Cathay Pacific, EVA or Singapore Airlines when visiting Cebu! I am from Cebu originally, living in London now and every time I visit home, I always make sure to avoid Manila. It's just not worth the stress. Looking forward for your Cebu video, soon!
@@jacquesabella5451 thanks for the recommendation! PAL is moving everything to NAIA T1 soon. Perhaps that will make things better? I don't know...
great video, and yes i love airplane food too... may I ask if the biz class cabin was full?
Business was 50% full. Premium economy and economy was filled to the brim.
@@ryansofly thanks for replying! keep on flying!😊
PAL certainly hides its light under a bushel ! Great video, thanks. When PAL returned to London a few years ago there was virtually no promotion in the UK except for the Filipino market here. Initially PAL had no Russian overflying rights so MNL-LHR non-stop would take around 15 hours. During the pandemic PAL ceased its London flights (except for a few 'rescue' services) and now it's leased its LHR slot to BA. I am sure PAL will return at some stage but it must bear in mind that much of its Europe-MNL market is now lost to indirect rivals.
Yeah they've returned some A350s so I don't see them returning anytime soon. Still, would be a great option though!
Manila is just too far away from Western Europe. Direct flight would require soo much fuel to burn. So it would never be as cheap as the other competitors.
London will come back but The latest news is they are targeting Brussels instead.
@@ajorbista Yes. I had read about this. BRU must have offered PAL a lot of 'help' to fly there !
I can totally relate this to my previous experience back in Oct 2022. Philippine Airlines is under-rated and I would love to fly with them again. The thing that would turn me away is its terminal. As you mentioned, cramp, crowded and not user friendly. I walked around and try to find the kind of huge screen with all departing flights' info, there is none The secondary security screening was exactly the gate I boarded my MNL-KUL flight. I was sitting somewhere close to it. The boarding announcement was so soft. I wouldn't want to risk my travel plan to transit in MNL despite the fare is attractive. MNL needs a major uplift or a new airport.
There is a new airport on the way thankfully! That should solve all the highlighted problems. Mate, I watch your videos all the time! Thanks for popping by!
That was a great video, and I thank you very much! The only difference is I believe Philippine Airlines is a very average airlines. I travel from Honolulu to Manila 4 -5 times a year in business class and I think it’s just So so. Last time I flew with ANA in a business class, and I was overwhelmed by how awesome it was. As far as I’m concerned, Philippine Airlines is going down. Mabuhay Club food selection is really bad in Domestic and international lounges.
Indeed, while the on board product is ok the airport and lounge experience was weak. With the new airport hopefully you will solve the woes for transit.
Damn those lines are long, that lounge has me excited for the singapore airlines one next year! Keep up the great video! Sadly that meal doesn’t compete with Qatar😂
Mate, NOTHING compares to QR. They're in a league of their own..
Terminal 2 happens to be the smallest among the 3 terminals used for international flights. PAL should transfer some of their flights to the nearby and bigger terminal 1.
Or transfer all their domestic flights to either terminal 1, 3, or 4. And use the whole of terminal 2 only for their international flights.
I look forward to the new airport! Thanks for watching!
Ryan, thanks so much for sharing. I was considering flying home from SG to MEL on PAL, but that Terminal 2 looks scary and we won't be flying in the pointy end of the plane 😆😄😁 might have to think of a different option. I'm looking forward to checking out the hawker centers in SG, especially a couple of the food emporiums located at MRT stations.
Look out for their amazing fares in business. I only paid AUD998 one way for this.
@@ryansofly Wow. Man, hopefully we bump into each other at hawker and you can share all your travel experiences hahaha.
@@new2melbtango well I'm going through the food stalls and street food in Korea now!
@@ryansofly Lovely. My wife and I have our fave stall in Gwangjang Market, the hand-cut noodle lady who was on Street Food Asia on Netflix
Someone had to say it and yes the airport situation in MNL isn’t pleasant especially in terminal 2. They have gonna move things around and from what I’ve read Terminal 2 should be a domestic terminal around July since PAL international flights will be moving to Terminal 1. I’ve flown PAL plenty of times and I’ve noticed that they have put a lot of effort into improving their service on board along with updating some of the hard products. But they do have a lot of planes that should also be updated
Yes T2 isn't designed for international ops, and it shows. As I mentioned in my conclusion, i would not do this trip in economy class with no lounge access. I cannot imagine being plonked into that chaos for so many hours out there with nowhere to sit! It's crazy!
Thank you for patronizing PAL.
Hold on about Terminal 2: they have:
1. Jollibee !!!
2. Great desks inside to the left with usb ports.
Loved PAL staff next to Jollibee: they could put me on the last flight to Cebu at midnight.
Oh nice. I’ll be transfer here for Bangkok to New York in 3 weeks😅. Only have 2:20 to do the transfer so hopefully I can make it
Your MNL-JFK flight goes via YVR, so you'll most probably go into that screening downstairs and get bussed to T1.
Hi ! I’m new to your channel …. Liked to know more about Melbourne ..😊
Well unfortunately I'm not from Melbourne! Hehe...
I'm going to manila in may 2023 transit to seoul but got 10 hour layover in t2 can we use the transit bus to t3
You'll have to direct that question to PAL, mate. This was my first time in NAIA so you're guess is as good as mine. For that 10 hours, why not head out into Manila? It'll be so much more interesting than staying at the airport.
You missed the joys of going through Immigration at Manila airport! Chaos! I flown Domestically from Manila airport and is the same chaos!
Manila airport looking very old and tired.
That business class cabin looked very nice! Service and food very nice too. I now need a reason to get back to Philippines (hahaha as if I need a 'reason' to go) so can try Philippines Airline for the first time.
Hahahahaha you and I do not need a reason to travel and eat. We just do. I was told it is a lot less chaotic in T3. Really curious why PAL wasn't allocated to the newest terminal instead of being stuck in T2.
Great flight review. I thought T1 at Manila airport was bad, T2 is on the next level, unless things have changed. I’ve heard some dodgy things about Skytrax. I will not believe their ratings.
Be looking forward to seeing your next video
Come to think of it, the squishy squashy arrivals in MEL was no different to MNL really. Chaotic and disorganized.
Great review, crazy scenes at the airport. The food, although not my cup of tea looks really good. Hope you don't mind - I am going to share this on my blog on Saturday. Melbourne Airport is a shocker. and after all the baggage handlers were sacked during covid Qantas do not what they are doing, they are trying to save a buck everywhere and passengers are the ones that suffer.
Yeah MEL has always been a shocker of an airport for a long time way before covid-19. Especially is you're visiting for the first time, its just not a very good first impression. Yeah by all means share it, link me in too if you don't mind! Thanks for watching...
I like your impression of "station manager from Philippine Airlines".
Haha thanks man for popping by!
@@ryansofly also, Manila is getting a new airport though it won’t be ready for up to five more years.
What medication can they give you? Aspirin?
Yeah I asked for asprin.
"Organized Chaos" the true SEA experience!
Hi Ryan, I am going Taipei in Oct and can't decide if I want to fly with PAL on business class. I saw on your video that you had to take pain killer for your back pain on the flight. Was it due to the flat bed that caused the pain? My other concern is also that the layover time in Manila back to Melbourne is just an hour which is the main factor that pulls me off booking the flight for now. Do you reckon flying with PAL is a wise choice? The fare difference between PAL and CX is about A$1000 which is pretty substantially. Your advice would really be appreciated.
By the way, I was also a Singaporean and now Australian living in Melbourne ☺.
By all means... Fly PAL! They are operating out of T1 in MNL now with a swanky new lounge so the issues I laid out for T2 in this video are not valid anymore. Nah, the back pain was caused by something stupid I did, which you'll see at the beginning of this video...
th-cam.com/video/hhjYNfsh-wg/w-d-xo.html
@@ryansofly Thanks so much for your prompt reply. I have seen reviews with very negative comments on TH-cam and was hesitating whether to go ahead with PAL. I will proceed with the booking and hopefully the flight is going to be a good one. Don't believe it can be any worst than China Eastern business class 😆
Hope your back is now fully recovered. 🤗
@@corinasom1729 hahahaha damn right! As long as you manage your expectations. Think about it, the Filipinos... They'll make you feel like you've known them for 10 years. At least my crew was chatty.
Aiya, my back... Old man problems lah. I cannot be jumping about like a spring chicken anymore.
Hi Ryan, at 19:20 when you start to talk about your back spasms and trouble sleeping, are you attributing this problem to the seat and PAL? Or is this a pre-existing condition you have? I ask as I am due to fly to London via Manila soon and was looking to book Business or First class for one leg of the trip. Thank you. P.S. Customs on departure at both International Terminals in Manila is absolutely terrible. Out of all the countries I have visited, Manila is the worst.
th-cam.com/video/hhjYNfsh-wg/w-d-xo.html
In that video above, I hurt myself doing that stunt in the start of the video 😆... Nah, there's nothing wrong with PAL's seat. It's stock standard Vantage XL, comfortable.
Was it a smooth flight all the way? Or was there any turbulence?
Smooth as silk... ☺️
The New Manila International Airport is being constructed. Once its finished, passengers might have better experience.
Please anyone tell me, Does Philipine airlines business class offer dine on demand? So I can order the food anytime I want during the flight..
Don't think so, unfortunately
I like the vids and the accent!😀
Haha... Thanks for popping by!
A great flight report, the food looked tastier than any Grindr date ever! 😂 And you are too kind, I have a long list of people that I would quite happily let sit in economy class at that airport - for a week 😈😂🥂
Maybe my in-laws? 😅🤣 I'm kidding.
An honest review of the NAIA terminal 2 is badly needed for the management to improve and upgrade.
I do believe the new airport currently being build will solve ALL the woes at NAIA. Thanks for watching!
The transit experience will hopefully become better if not best with the opening of New Manila Internation Airport in Bulacan in 3-4 years time. Hopefully by then the whole travel experience will be for the better.
I suppose ANYTHING will be better than the present NAIA! 😅 Thanks for watching!
WOW WOW WOW! It pains me to say this but it appears PR definitely offers a better in-cabin experience than my fave airline, SQ. I might ahve to consider them for future flights. However, I'm concerned over the transit in Manilla. Their lounge offering is definitely on the same level of the Silverkris lounge.
Ha! Thanks for watching, Tim! While PR's inflight product is no ANA or QR, I found it decent and definitely waaaaaay better than QF. Yeah the transit in MNL, tip... No check in bags! You don't really don't want to be stuck downstairs. Fellow passengers who followed me on the same 2 flights only appeared at the lounge 90 mins after me, upset and swearing never again.
So true, I would say SQ will be second in cabin experience. I have tried JAL & KAL business too at the service is too robotic for me.
When did you vlog this as I flew back from siem reap to brisbane in September and no mask needed
4 September... PH has removed these restrictions shortly after. So lucky you! 🤣
New sub Ryan are you from the Philippines?
@@JJ-vy2rh ha no I'm not Pinoy... ☺️ Originally from Singapore but I live in AU now.
@@ryansofly ok singapore good if you live there otherwise bit pricey, I like the content
UK airports are also in chaos with regards to check in, security and baggage claim. Manila Term 2 is bad, T3 is much better, but if you can fly in and out of Clark or Cebu it is a breeze.
I'm curious why wasn't PAL assigned to T3 when it opened? Anyway that chaos made for some great content, don't you think? 😅 Thanks for popping by!
In fairness it's not all UK airports and much will depend on the day and time you travel plus the terminal you use. Amsterdam Schiphol takes the biscuit for the worse delays (but mainly on departure) and it has had to cap capacity (because it cannot cope with current traveller numbers) until end 2022.
no Cebu Pacific long haul?
I am so glad you love filipino food specially when you choose the bangus asado over roast beef i feel somewhat proud of it❤ and when you sign thumbs up😅 and then the corn pudding as your dessert your already a filipino hahaha just joking. I also love the bangus❤as well. I did not get bored watching your vlog Ryan though its more of talking and i had to listen well to fully understand you😆. More power and stay safe
Thank you for your kind words!
agreed with you that PAL is an under rated flag carrier but MNL terminal let them down let hope they improve the facilities at MNL to make PAL rise again as one of the Asian leading carrier
great vid. melbourne is a shambles and embarrassment of an airport when it comes to airside amenities. that said, recently returned from overseas travel and got our bags without a hitch.
Lucky you. Even pre covid, SYD/MEL/PER international arrivals are a very embarrassing representation of Australia. Very 3rd world.
Take care always.
Great review I just subscribed to your channel. So true about Australian airports, I went overseas in April and it was a shit fight even trying to leave the country as there were 4 security gates out of 17 open in Sydney at that time. Australian airports are an embarrassment when you look at how 3 rd world countries can streamline there airports. I fligh business class on philippine airlines frequently and love there product, leaves Qantas way behind in my opinion.
Thanks for the sub. For SYD, at least we know there's a new airport on the way. But MEL will continue to fester in her current form unfortunately for a while longer.
I flew out of brisbane in September no problem at all, though fly at midnight...
Having flown to Manila for years since the 90s a lot of us are probably expecting this but man you never get used to it. Especially going through customs? My god it’s a nightmare lmao
Also may I add if you’re on a late flight in terminal 2, good luck getting food cause they literally close everything and you’re stranded. It’s not like the Domestic Side at all which has tons of food after checking in.
Funny thing about that second checkpoint is that they took away like a whole tub of aloe vera from our bag even tho the previous airport we were in was completely fine with it. Kinda weird inconsistency.
Hahaha... Look, even with the shops opened, good luck trying to buy anything! The cafe was over run it was like a zombie apocalypse. So having a lounge to hide from the chaos made the experience slightly bearable. 🤣
Speaking of inconsistencies... My roller bag got flagged out because I had a power board extension chord in there, which they explained it's a security issue as I could strangle someone with that. Ok fine. But they let me go with my laptop bag... Complete with cables within. 🤦🤷
@@ryansofly that’s strange.. really strange about the cables. Cause when I went on my flight I had like 10+ cables of varying length in a mesh storage pack that I would just take out of my bag and run it through the machine and i was fine lol I’ve never heard of that before
Like imagine the drawer full of random clutter. It was basically that
They did not make those announcements, did they? That was soo much funny.
I would also like to apologise, it seems that AU citizens are always apologising for the deficiencies of their corporations.
Great series, great food, great humour. Thank you and can't wait till the next series.
Thanks for popping by. Yeah with that horrid MEL experience, think we could all do with a laugh.
I love your vlogs❤
Thanks for popping by!!
Hi
So I have traveled from the USA to Hong Kong and Philippines airlines to Manila.
I didn't know that there is another part of Manila airport until I missed my flight to Davao international Airport.
It was so confusing being the first time here. Mark
Yeah! Manila airport has 3 terminals. 😏
Sure you are not alone: 35 years ago I was mesmerized by the airline omelet. So I acquired the skill to make it perfect whenever I can show off😅
It's quite cramped for an airport. Luckily you're in biz class. The food didn't look too bad leh
No it didn't! Filipino food doesn't get the exposure it deserves, and I can actually cook a mean adobo pork belly! Hahaha... Yum!
Beautiful journey.
PR's international flights have since all shifted to Terminal 1 at Manila NAIA - much better.
Most nights, PR209 to MEL and PR211 to SYD are the modernised Airbus A333s with the 1-2-1 in business class. Occasionally the flights are the terrible old previous design: 2-2-2, very straneg layout.
But I agree PR is extremely underrated. It often runs on time to/from Australia, unlike declining Qantas.
The food is also far better (and more extensive) since COVID-19 "ended", and there's now no longer (thankfully) a requirement to wear masks on board.
Overall, a good video but with the Manila terminal change, it's no longer a true representation of today's conditions.
Indeed, that's why the video was dated in the beginning. I would fly them again in a heartbeat.
I like flying Pal. But on international business class there is only one toilet. Frequently tied up by staff so access is very difficult accompanied by long waits. Once they fix that I will fly much more
Bulkhead closer to the isle is always the best! Especially on that overnight flight…. I’m guessing you chose this seat specifically….More private and up nice and close to the window! I also noticed throughout the video you had the interactive map on screen.. that’s literally what I have going the whole time.. unless I may feel the need to watch 1 movie…
From what you mentioned regarding the attention to details and attentiveness of the cabin crew certainly left me impressed… Philippine Airlines have generally been a little low on my list to try… however I may need to re consider that after this video! The bag situation just doesn’t surprise me at all tbh… it’s a shit show atm… I won’t get into what I had to deal with to get back to ADL from SYD the other day… oh via MEL 🤦♂️
Great work Ryan!
Yes the flight map is ALWAYS permanently displayed whenever I fly. In the Vantage XL cabin, I always choose the window for better privacy especially with my filming and such. If you want to do this flight, just make sure you're in JCL for a bearable transit in NAIA. Otherwise its really hell.
PAL is a 4 STAR global airlines..
hence its standard and the quality of its products and services are EXCELLENT AND WAY AHEAD than the majority of airlines worldwide
I will be flying Sydney to Manila in under 3 weeks .. Philippine Airlines Premium Economy Class
Last time I traveled back from the Philippines - was a repatriation flight - back to Sydney
On that flight , there was only around 20 passengers
Must've been a very surreal experience
If you want to avoid clogged-up gates, book a flight that leaves in the morning, most people come in the afternoon
Indeed... I've seen footages of T2 looking tranquil in the mornings as the sun rises. Thanks for watching!
PPL such a great airline
Maybe the powers that be rate PAL only 4 stars because of its origin in the stuffy, chaotic Manila airport. It's been a long time the govt plans on relocation to the old Clark air base wc was a former US military base. The reason Manila airport is so small because it's right smack in the middle of a residential area so i don't think there can be any further expansion on it. Thank you for your generous compliments on the total PAL inflight services, the small details. Filipinos love corned beef guisado too 🤤👏👍❤️🇵🇭
Well, we all know to take Skytrax ratings with a pinch of salt. The airline pays for that company's consulting services, get several boxes ticked and voilà, 4 stars awarded. So none of us in the know takes Skytrax seriously, that's why we call them Scamtrax. Hahahaha...
You know, I've started making my own corn beef guisado. Delicious, so simple to make.
The Arroz Caldo is exquisite.
Yes it was indeed.... 😏
I have been flying regularly from the UK to Davao in The Philippines for the past 20 years. I would try various airlines so that I could experience stopovers in different countries. Usually I would fly to Manila before catching a domestic flight onwards to Davao
NAIA airport, especially terminals 1 and 2 have to be the worst airport experiences I have ever encountered.
For the past 8 years or so I now only use Singapore Airlines. I usually stay at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Changi Airport before catching a direct flight to Davao therefore avoiding the chaos in Manila.
Ah yes, NAIA is chaotic. Probably the worst major international airport in Asia, I cannot think of who else of worse of.
@@ryansofly manila will have a new international airport. with this step of the government the chaotic nature of NAIA will be reduced. larger and modern airport.
I’m glad I’m not the only one who pick on whether the logo faces me or not (well at least in J or F) 😂
The service and catering seems pretty good on PR, it does make me wanna give them a try 🥺
I'm very impressed at how decent their offerings are. Just adjust your expectations for transit, you'll be fine.
Cashew nuts ??? Where are the dried mango & pea snacks I learned to eat on all my PAL domestic flights?
Don't think they give the dried mango in business class unless you ask for it.
Have you ever flown with SAS Scandinavian Airlines to Copenhagen before?
I've only done SAS between SIN BKK in their 747/767/DC10. Yes, I'm that old. 🤣
@@ryansofly Oh I see! Same to me but is flew by Alitalia also the oldest 😂
As far as i know T2 originally build as a domestic terminal that is why its soooo cramp and chaotic
You're right. That's why everything else is added on, makeshift.
How do you like Philippine Airlines so far? Ryan by the way in Singapore Changi if you look at the lines it would be mostly Filipinos going back to Manila even though your flag carrier Singapore Airlines group including Scoot does offer direct tickets to DVO/CRK/CEB and MNL.
For the Chinese speaking singaporeans Philippine Airlines is written as this 菲律賓航空. If you are going from Perth Western Australia to Manila you are still better off flying SQ via SIN🇸🇬 over PR223/224 PER🇦🇺-MNL🇵🇭.
Speaking of the food between Singapore and Philippine Airlines SQ will always beat PR at all times that includes the longest flights SQ21/23 EWR/JFK-SIN connections to Manila are SQ910/918 from those flights. Knew this because my brothers went on PR127 JFK-MNL with them disliking the food at the same time it's more expensive $1800 than SQ21/918 ticket which would have been at that time less $863-1799
PR is mostly a hit and miss according to most. I got lucky with 2 fantastic flights. In order for a more complete experience, I'd probably need to fly them more. Filipinos and their balik bayan is HUGE business for airlines the world over. SQ is popular with not just the Pinoys, but with Indonesians as well. Other than Singapore, they are the next country with the MOST PPS members. Most are based in Jakarta, which explains why SQ deploys a 4 class equipped 777-300ER between SIN and CGK on some flights. There is an unspoken prestige of flying SQ.
Ryan. Business class in Australia by Qantas has been substandard even prior to the wuhan flu. As Australians we can't do hospitality, it's not in our blood. Having an Irishman as the boss certainly does not help.
Even just these few years, the difference is stark. No more multi course meals with white linen on A330 transcon, warm meals have also disappeared altogether replaced with sandwiches. I could go on. And here we are still paying a premium price for tickets.
@@ryansofly yes I know Joyce has screwed the airline and Swissport have brought it to its knees
Same old problem which airport authorities cannot resolve for decades. Such a stressful exprience using that terminal.
At least there is a new airport coming!
true
Gurl, you look totally flustered at 3:04. How would the aunties of Singapore survive here?
Lol yeah the airport terminal was very warm. Only the lounge had some semblance of air conditioning. How do aunties like me survive? Don't fly economy! 🤣
In December it's going to be "Bonjour Paris" as Air France 🇫🇷 is set to restart direct nonstop flights between Manila and Paris Charles De Gaulle, it's "Au Revoir" to tedious layovers when travelling to Europe 🇪🇺. It will be easier for French and European visitors, business people also Filipinos living in Europe coming to the Philippines and for us Schengen Visa holders who regularly travel to Europe. I can't wait to be greeted again with "Bonjour et Bienvenue á Bord" and perhaps a complementary champagne 🥂 would be great 😃. When Air France finally pushes through a big "Content de te Revoir aux Philippines" that's Welcome Back to the Philippines in French.
It is ALWAYS great to see an European airline expand their footprint in Asia. Thanks for the update!
@@ryansoflyIt's been more than 20 years when Air France last flew to the Philippines and I'm very happy that they're coming back, it's most likely to hire Filipino cabin crew who are French speakers and they have no problem finding them, most of them are in France, Belgium and Switzerland.
@@ryansoflyDid you know that Paris Charles De Gaulle Airport or Aeroport de Paris Charles De Gaulle is located 23km Northeast of the French capital in the town of Roissy in the region of Ilé de France it opened in 1974 it was named after the French WW2 General and Statesman. The airport has excellent road and rail connections to Paris and to the regions in Northern France 🇫🇷.
@@ryansofly It has confirmed that Air France 🇫🇷 will commence on December 08 their direct nonstop flights between Manila and Paris Charles De Gaulle it will be 3x weekly. Hopefully Lufthansa will follow suit.
Getting ready for the first direct nonstop flight to Paris Charles de Gaulle from Manila on December 08 on Air France 🇫🇷, AF 209 will depart Manila at 9:50pm arrive at Paris Charles de Gaulle at 5:50am Central European Time, already booked on Business Class upgraded from Premium Economy, the cabins were upgraded on all classes. Enjoying the exquisite in-flight service and gastronomic delights Par Excellence with menus created by Michelin starred chefs and the finest wines selected by their Sommelier Xavier Thuizat on this 14hr direct flight and on the return flight to Manila. Bon Voyage.
A blind date from Grinder ? Is this hidden product placement ? 😅
Simple rule of thumb: don't use PAL. Pick an airline that flies out of Terminal 3 if you can!So many of you flying YT channels report on business class flights. It's much more telling to know what their economy service is like. It tells you more about an airline than business/first service.
Ha indeed... Flying in business via T2 made the experience slightly bearable, to be honest. This flight was a small part of a larger booking to take me back to OZ from Asia. So yeah. Thanks for watching!
@@ryansofly I live in MNL and I just don't use PAL, full stop.
What about uk citizens passing through arab countries with different mentalities and protocalls getting stressed on way to Philipines? When are Philipine airways going to start flying from the uk again as many dont want to even step foot in arab lands ?
Well that's a question for PR. They've returned some A350s in a post covid rationalisation exercise so I don't see them returning to London just yet.
@@ryansofly Thank you
@@thegrandarchitect2274 In fact this summer PAL leased its LHR slots to BA so it won't be returning anytime soon. As you may know slots at LHR are very, very expensive hence PAL decided to lease, rather than sell, its LHR slots.
@@alexmcwhirter6611 Thanks for that Interesting and I have learned something new 👍
@@thegrandarchitect2274 No problem. In fact the price of a single slot pair (one arrival and one departure) varies between US$20 and US$75 million depending on time of day, day of the week. LHR is full and so new airlines have to buy or swap slots to gain access.
My disabled son, his partner (Fillipina) and 4 children also Fillippina were treated very badly at this airport. There was one man at check in who seemed to go out of his way to be difficult and followed them around the airport and stopped other workers from helping the family. This guy made them travel across to the airport to pay departure taxes (which apparently due to certain circumstances they did not have to pay) they decided to pay the exit taxes just to be able to leave, it turned out that they were short of the stated fee. A lady preasant stepped forward to loan them the money they were short but the aforementioned guy stepped in front of her and said "no. Don't help them they don't want us in their country (My son is Australian) consequently they missed their flight which i believe was the guys aim as he kept telling them that they were going to miss their flight. They were so so lucky that the gentleman who drove them to the airport, agreed to drive them back to their hotel which they had already paid for that night. Due to the timing of the flight they were able to return to their room and not encounter further fees. The taxi driver was happy to return the next day for his payment ounce my son had time to get some money sent to him. We got the Australian embassy involved and they returned to the airport with the family and of course there were no more problems now that the embassy was involved. Unbeknown to the man who caused so many problems in the first place, he didn't know that i was on video chat for the whole experience. I wrote a long complaint to Philippines airlines and airport but never heard anything back from them. My son managed to get the contact details of the lady who tried to assist them before they staff member intervened. Upon contacting her to thank her for trying to help we discovered that she was a stewardess and her husband was a captain. Because of the circumstances surrounding this flight the Australian government booked the flights and had to now reschedule the flights. I don't think this flight could have been any worse.
Far out... What a horrible experience! NAIA is certainly a very challenging airport to fly through.
God willing once our 2 new airports, (one in Sangley Point International Airport (Cavite City) and second in Bulacan International Airport) finished being constructed could highly improve the passenger experience. If they just moved lots of the international flights especially the lay over ones in Clark International airport, NAIA passengers could had been spared of this kind of horrible experience... Clark International Airport is far better especially facility wise compared to NAIA.
After the terrible airport the flight was impressive. Unfortunately for me I would be in Economy class. Maybe a transit in Manila is not for me!
I'd say do it for the experience. It'll be one hell of a dinner table story. 🤣
@@ryansofly After you sir! 😆
I must say, the A330-300 is much better configured than their 777-300er on long haul. There's much more shelf space around the seat than the 777-300. A big plus is the lay-flat bed versus the angled bed that has your feet dangling on the ground. Flew LAX-MNL R/T business class on the old 777-300er. Never again. The only advantage PAL has is it's a nonstop flight. Now they have competition with United. UNITED have SFO-MNL nonstop flight. Plus UNITED business seats are configured 1-2-1 with 180 degree flat bed versus PAL 2-3-2 foot dangling angled beds. The choice is clear.
Indeed.... The 77Ws are first generation and in its original condition which is an era behind.
Melbourne airport is a disgrace. Liked your presentation style and the review.
Thanks for your support.
I love these 'Covid measures'. Instead of giving you a piece of paper to read, the attendant spends 20 minutes in close proximity to you in order to 'explain' the menu instead.
Lol, since when has these covid-19 cutbacks made sense? Haha...
@@ryansofly I'm flying to Manila in a few months. Hopefully all this madness will be a thing of the past when I get there. By the way, very nice video! The food looks great.
@@alancarre7590 cool! Thanks for popping by. Enjoy your flight!
@@ryansofly It won't be business class, so I'll do my best. It's JAL, so I think the food will be passable at least. I'm curious how much you paid for that flight? Always wanted to try business class, maybe I can actually afford it... I'm such a cheapskate I always click on "sort by price" and take the first one.
@@alancarre7590 I flew KUL MNL MEL one way for AUD 1k.