PAL to increase Japan flights in time for holidays

Flag carrier Philippine Airlines (PAL) is increasing flight frequencies to and from key destinations in Japan in anticipation for the peak travel demand during the holidays later this year.

In an advisory on Tuesday, PAL said said it will start increasing frequencies on three of its Japan routes beginning in late October:

• Manila–Tokyo (Narita) - from 14 to 21 weekly flights, effective October 25, 2026,
  to March 27, 2027
• Manila–Osaka (Kansai) - from 14 to 21 weekly flights, effective October 25, 2026,
  to March 27, 2027
• Manila–Sapporo (Chitose) - from 3 to 5 weekly flights, effective November 24, 2026,
  to February 27, 2027

The airline said the enhancements will increase PAL's Japan operations to up to 87 weekly flights, giving customers more travel options during one of the busiest travel periods of the year.

"The winter season is one of the most popular times of the year for Filipinos visiting Japan, while it is also a peak period for Japanese travelers seeking the Philippines' tropical destinations," said Richard Nuttall, president of Philippine Airlines.

"By adding more flights, we are giving our customers greater flexibility during these high-demand months while strengthening tourism, business and cultural exchanges between our two countries. The additional services also provide more cargo capacity to support growing trade between the Philippines and Japan,” said Nuttal.

Meanwhile, PAL added that it will also operate additional services to Australia on selected peak travel dates to accommodate heightened demand during the Christmas and New Year holidays.

The flag carrier said additional flights will be mounted on PAL's Melbourne and Perth routes, while selected Sydney and Brisbane services will be upgraded to larger aircraft to provide more seats during the holiday travel surge. —Ted Cordero/RF, GMA News