The Philippine flag carrier has signed an agreement to join oneworld, adding network coverage and loyalty benefits as the alliance deepens its Asia-Pacific presence.
Philippine Airlines, also known as PAL, is set to become oneworld’s 16th member airline after signing a Memorandum of Understanding at the International Air Transport Association’s 82nd Annual General Meeting in Rio de Janeiro on June 6, 2026. The agreement places the Philippines’ national flag carrier on a path to join one of the aviation industry’s largest global alliances. For oneworld, the move further strengthens its presence in Southeast Asia and extends the network available to its customers.
The airline was invited to join as a member-designate by oneworld’s Governing Board, which comprises the chief executives of the alliance’s member airlines. The announcement positions Philippine Airlines within a group whose existing network spans nearly 1,000 destinations through 15 member airlines, according to the release. Its addition would give the alliance a larger role in connecting the Philippines with established markets across Asia-Pacific and beyond.
Philippine Airlines is expected to add 31 unique destinations throughout the Philippines and beyond to oneworld’s global network. The release said the carrier’s international services support demand across Asia, North America, Europe, the Middle East and Australia, complementing routes already offered by alliance members. The airline currently operates scheduled nonstop flights from hubs in Manila and Cebu to 29 destinations in the Philippines and 40 destinations across Asia, North America, Australia and the Middle East.
The partnership also extends oneworld’s customer proposition into Philippine Airlines’ loyalty programme. Following entry into the alliance, members of Mabuhay Miles are expected to receive reciprocal opportunities to earn and redeem miles and points across all oneworld member airlines. Eligible top-tier customers will also receive oneworld Priority benefits and access to more than 700 premium airport lounges, including the alliance’s branded lounges at Amsterdam Schiphol and Seoul Incheon.
For Philippine Airlines, the agreement links its established regional and long-haul network with a broader set of airline partners and shared frequent-flyer benefits. PAL Holdings President Lucio C. Tan III described the move as a significant step for the carrier and for Southeast Asia’s representation within the alliance, while oneworld said the airline would serve a critical role in its regional network. The practical impact will depend on the carrier completing the process to become a full member, but the announcement gives both sides a defined framework for expanding connectivity and customer recognition.
