BACOLOD CITY -- The Philippine Airlines (PAL) will fly its newly-acquired Boeing 777-300ER jetliner to Sydney and Melbourne sometime in March.
The state-of-the-art aircraft, which was acquired only last January, is actually the second of its kind under the flag carrier’s growing fleet. PAL acquired its first B777-300ER just last November servicing the premium Hong Kong and the Manila-Tokyo-Narita vice-versa routes.
"We are happy to announce that we will soon be flying to Sydney and Melbourne," PAL senior assistant vice president for Mindanao Domingo Duerme said.
Duerme, who is also the tournament chairman of the 63rd PAL Interclub Golf Tournament now being held here, likewise announced the development during the dinner hosted by Bacolod City Mayor Evelio R, Leonardia to covering sports journalists Tuesday at the newly-constructed New Government Center along Carlos Hilado Highway.
The fuel-efficient B777-300ER is the world?s largest long-range twin-engine jetliner and is capable of carrying 370 passengers in PAL’s two-class configuration. The jet features a cutting-edge inflight entertainment system, luxurious seats and a coastal resort-themed cabin design.
Passengers traveling in the routes that were mentioned will also experience a relaxed atmosphere as the jet is also equipped with a personal television with Audio Video on Demand (AVOD) capability. The fully digital in-flight entertainment system enables passengers to choose from a broad range of media content.
Currently, PAL flies to 24 destinations in 13 countries and territories as well as to 30 points in the Philippines.
By March 16 this year, PAL will also fly back to Brisbane, marking the airline company's return to the Queensland capital after a 12-year absence.
The move to fly the route once more underscores the flag carrier's commitment to its market in Australia despite the global economic downturn. (Charles Raymond A. Maxey)