Philippine Airlines (PAL) recently hosted an exclusive “Million Milers Night” at the San Francisco Airport Marriott Waterfront Hotel, honoring the unwavering loyalty of its most esteemed US-based frequent flyers. This special event celebrated PAL’s top patrons against the backdrop of the airline’s strongest financial performance in years.
In 2024, Philippine Airlines reported a net income of USD 151.1 million and an operating income of USD 314.4 million, marking the highest earnings among all locally operated aviation companies in the Philippines. This robust financial showing underscores PAL’s successful recovery and strategic advancements.
During his welcome address, PAL Holdings, Inc. (PHI) President and Chief Operating Officer Lucio Tan III extended heartfelt gratitude to the airline’s Million Milers. “A million miles flown with PAL is more than a personal milestone, it is a testament to the deep connection we have built with you. It is your steadfast support, your choice to fly with us again and again, that strengthens our purpose and drives us to serve better,” said Tan. PAL currently boasts 537 Million Milers globally, with 154 of these elite members hailing from North America.
Tan also echoed the guiding philosophy of Chairman Dr. Lucio C. Tan, who often remarked, “‘Everywhere we go, we make sure that PAL displays the warmth, smile, and everything good about the Philippines and our people’—a sentiment that remains at the heart of PAL’s mission. This spirit of service defines Philippine Airlines. From the first greeting at the airport to the final farewell on board, PAL carries more than passengers—it carries the warmth, hospitality, and pride of the Filipino people to the world.”
New Achievements and Developments
The event also served as a platform to highlight PAL’s recent accolades. Aviation analytics firm Cirium recognized PAL as the most punctual airline in the Asia-Pacific region for April 2025, achieving an impressive 86.07% on-time performance rate. This builds on the airline’s global Top 7 ranking for punctuality in 2024. Tan acknowledged the dedicated efforts of “thousands of PAL professionals who work tirelessly to deliver safe, comfortable, and on-time journeys.”
To further bolster its leadership, PAL recently welcomed Richard Nuttall as President and promoted Atty. Carlos Luis Fernandez to Executive Vice President / Chief Operating Officer. “Under their stewardship, PAL is off to a steadier path of growth,” Tan affirmed.
Further Enhancing Service and Connectivity
In his keynote address, Atty. Fernandez lauded the US-based Million Milers for their invaluable loyalty, stating, “Your loyalty has carried us through challenges, inspired our progress, and propelled us toward new horizons. On behalf of the entire PAL team, thank you—for your trust, your patronage, and your belief in the flag carrier and the Heart of the Filipino.”
Atty. Fernandez also unveiled key strategic enhancements, including improvements to the Upgrade Travel Certificate (UTC) program, simplifying cabin upgrades for members and companions. He also announced a new mileage-earning partnership with Alaska Airlines. Furthermore, PAL is expanding its digital infrastructure with a redesigned website and app, introducing multi-currency pricing, and enhancing accessibility with support for eight languages.
Significant route network developments were also shared, including the launch of a new Cebu–Ho Chi Minh route and an upcoming service between Manila and Da Nang. Resumed and new routes like Manila–Seattle, Cauayan, and Clark–Siargao are part of PAL’s broader efforts to strengthen its domestic hubs in Cebu and Clark and strategically improve its international network, connecting the Philippines to key leisure destinations, business centers, and OFW markets globally.
A strong commitment to sustainability, comfort, and global competitiveness was reinforced with the confirmation of the first of nine Airbus A350-1000 aircraft arriving starting in 2025, alongside the refurbishment of 18 A321ceo aircraft.
The “Million Milers Night” also fostered valuable fellowship and networking opportunities between PAL officials and its most loyal customers. PAL Million Milers receive lifetime membership and a suite of exclusive benefits, marking the highest level of recognition within the PAL loyalty program. The evening featured engaging entertainment by the ‘King of Original Pilipino Music’ Ogie Alcasid and Filipino American Singer Stephanie Reese, emceed by news personality Ginger Conejero.
