Our Philippine Airlines LAX to Manila Direct Experience

(Last Updated On: March 11, 2020)

You know those jokes about the men who travel in biz class and stash their wives and kids in economy?

Funny story.

I recently spoke at TBEX Asia in the Philippines and was lucky enough to be flown on sponsor airlines, Philippine Airlines. My husband who was traveling to the same conference with our company, coincidentally booked on the same flight for himself and our kids. Except I was in business class, and they were in economy.

The direct overnight flight  (13 hours) from LA to Manila was easily the most convenient route, and one of the most affordable routes available, when we researched our travel. So it wasn’t THAT much of a coincidence that we all ended up flying together.

It was my first experience flying Business class on a long haul flight, and I found myself ricocheting between guilt, and gloat, struggling to find a balance. Fortunately the rest of my family took my upgrade in stride. My husband and kids are famous for being able to sleep anywhere, and eat anything and love to travel.

It seemed like the perfect opportunity to document our voyage, in both classes of seat, and compare the experience.

My experience flying LA-Manila Direct on Philippine Airlines in Business Class:

I’ll come right out and say it. I’m completely spoiled. It’s going to be hard to fly economy now, as well as other airlines.

On both my incoming and departing flights I sat next to frequent flyers who raved about the un-paralled service and care they receive from PAL. They informed me that they try never to fly other airlines because they just don’t measure up.

My seat was a near lay-flat seat, with multiple adjustments. It lay flat enough for me to comfortably lay on my side and even my stomach. When extended there was enough room for the window seat passenger to pass, without bumping into me.

The moment I boarded, I was offered a warm towel and a choice of beverages. A menu was proffered for me to make my meal choices.

Two meals were served during the 13 hour flight, with complimentary snacks, hot meals and beverages available in between. We had dinner shortly after take off and breakfast two hours before landing. This was the same on the return flight. Both flights left in the evening. The meals offered a choice off the menu with two appetizers and three entrees and assorted desserts and sides. 

The ratio of flight attendants to passengers seemed to hover somewhere between 1;5 and 1;8 as we were greeted and fed. There was no waiting for requests and if anything I had the feeling of being extremely pampered and cared for.  So much so that I almost forgot my usual flying phobia. I’ve never been so relaxed on a plane! The blankets and pillows provided were full sized and very cozy and I slept for the majority of both flights, waking in time for breakfast and to freshen up.

The in-flight amenities kit was another lovely touch. It included cologne, body lotion and lip balm from L’Occitane. Socks, eyemasks and a toothbrush were also provided.

Meanwhile back in Economy Class on Philippine Airlines from LA – Manila Direct:

My husband and kids, who booked the trip last minute, were in the far far back of the plane. Row 60 something. They couldn’t help but dread traveling on such a long flight in cramped quarters, despite their easy travel nature.

But upon arriving at their seats, they were pleasantly surprised. There was ample room, even for my 6 ft lanky husband, to stretch out their legs. They did not feel at all cramped in their seats. In fact my husband commented that it was one of the most comfortable international flights he’s had in a while and that it was far more spacious than any domestic flights.

Nor did they go hungry.

Although their meals were not as lavish, they were served two complete meals and beverages and had their own menus with a choice of entrees. They reported that all the food was tasty and filling and that they felt well cared for.

They also received amenity kits that included socks, eyemasks, toothbrush and toothpaste.

All the flight attendants were warm and friendly and they managed to sleep for several hours when not watching movies in the backs of their seats. They looked pretty well rested upon arrival home, no?

My in country flight from Manila to Caticlan airport was also quite smooth and eventful.

We’ve traveled a great deal in the past couple of years, both domestically and internationally. I was impressed with my PAL flight, enough to join their frequent flyer program. Who knows – I might have another chance to say “Mabuhay” in the future, and I’d definitely consider flying PAL to other destinations if it is an option. I sure hope I have a chance to visit and fly with PAL again! The Philippines surprised and delighted me and I would dearly love a chance to visit again.

This flight was one of the longest I have personally flown. For more information on long haul flights, check out Cruisin’ Altitude’s post on the 10 longest flights flown.