Philippine Airlines will join the oneworld alliance as its 16th member, making a major move in expanding its global reach. The airline signed a Memorandum of Understanding during the International Air Transport Association’s 82nd Annual General Meeting in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The oneworld Governing Board, made up of the CEOs of all member airlines, approved PAL as a member‑designate, clearing the way for its full entry into the alliance.
According to PAL Holdings, Inc. President Lucio C. Tan III:
This is a defining and transformative moment for Philippine Airlines,” said “Becoming a member of the oneworld Alliance and strengthening Southeast Asia’s representation within the group significantly brings the Philippines and the region closer to the world like never before. Together with our partners, we will deliver greater choice, consistent journeys, and a world-class travel experience that reflects the warmth of Filipino hospitality.
American Airlines Chief Executive Officer and chairman of the oneworld Governing Board, Robert Isom said
Philippine Airlines’ entry into oneworld supports our long‑term strategic growth and strengthens our connectivity across key markets in the Asia Pacific region. The airline has a proud heritage and will serve a critical role in our Southeast Asia network.
Benefits to Travellers
As Philippine Airlines (PAL) prepares to officially join the oneworld alliance, you may be wondering what this means. Let’s take a look from a few different perspectives.
Benefits to Qantas Frequent Flyer members
Following the recent announcement that you can burn your Qantas Points on Philippine Airlines, the question is how will this improve things. The short answer to the question is that quite a lot will improve for Qantas members.
Once PAL becomes a full oneworld member, Qantas Frequent Flyer members will almost certainly be able to earn Qantas Points and Status Credits on all eligible Philippine Airlines flights, including those booked directly under the PR flight code. This is a major upgrade from the current “redeem-only” partnership.
Philippine Airlines flights are also expected to be included in the Qantas oneworld Classic Flight Reward. This is the Reward that is often used to build a round the world reward. This popular redemption lets members combine flights across multiple oneworld carriers for a fixed Qantas Points price, up to 365,800 points for Business Class itineraries covering as much as 15,000 miles.
It could also make Manila a far more valuable transit point. With PAL joining oneworld, routing through Manila may offer smoother, more rewarding connections between Australia, North Asia, and North America, especially for those chasing status or maximising points value.
Benefits to oneworld members
More generally, when Philippine Airlines joins oneworld, there will be a range of benefits to the members. Oneworld members will be able to access Philippine Airlines’ domestic and Southeast Asia network. This will give travelers more route options across the region and beyond.
Once Philippine Airlines joins oneworld, travelers can earn and redeem miles across all oneworld frequent flyer programs when flying with PAL. Members will also enjoy elite perks on PAL flights, including priority check‑in, lounge access, and preferred seating.
Benefits to Mabuhay Miles members
Mabuhay Mile is the Philippine Airlines frequent flyer program. Mabuhay Miles members will be able to earn and redeem miles across all oneworld airlines, expanding their reward options worldwide. PAL’s top‑tier flyers will gain full oneworld Priority status, including access to more than 700 premium airport lounges across the globe. Eligible travelers will also enjoy exclusive perks such as First Class lounge access and dedicated First Class check‑in,
Final Words
Recent developments have fueled speculation about Philippine Airlines joining the oneworld alliance. Indeed, after the carrier partnered with both the Qatar Airways Privilege Club and the Qantas Frequent Flyer program many asked if it was on the cards. The rumour mill certainly got it right!
The move is particularly exciting for travelers in Southeast Asia, as PAL’s entry would open up a wide range of new routes and destinations that are currently outside the alliance network.
Looking through the press releases, I couldn’t spot a date where they would formally join. However, these things do take time. I have seen some suggestion of 2027. If this is the case, I would expect later in the year, rather than earlier.
