PAL targets 18 million passengers, expands Asia routes

Philippine Airlines (PAL) is on track to surpass 18 million passengers this year as it expands its routes in Asia.

The airline's president and COO, Stanley Ng, announced a target of growing passenger traffic by 10 to 20 percent in 2025.

With the recovery of grounded aircraft due to engine issues, PAL plans to increase flight frequencies and explore new high-demand destinations.

PAL will launch weekly flights between Cebu and Ho Chi Minh City starting May and non-stop flights between Manila and Da Nang by July.

Ng also mentioned potential future connections from Manila to Sapporo but noted that engine supply issues need resolution for cost efficiency.

The airline is set to receive Airbus A350-1000s this year, which will enable it to reach more cities in North America and Europe.