PHILIPPINE Airlines (PAL) said it has been awarded a four-star rating by US-based aviation group Airline Passenger Experience Association (APEX) for its inflight service, seats and cabin products.
In a statement on Tuesday, the flag carrier said the Four-Star Major Regional Airline 2019 title was given to the company on Monday. It said it was based on passenger feedback on five components: seat comfort, cabin service, food and beverage, entertainment and Wi-Fi connectivity.
“We are truly humbled by this latest vote of confidence from our valued customers. This new 4-Star APEX award is another victory for the Philippine Airlines team of dedicated professionals, coming after the 4-Star global rating certified by Skytrax earlier this year,” PAL President Jaime J. Bautista was quoted as saying.
APEX Chief Executive Officer Joe Leader said in the statement only 14% of the 500 airlines surveyed worldwide was able to attain a four-star rating, while only 9% received the highest five-star prize.
“The award will spur the airline to step up its service enhancement program as PAL introduces new aircraft, routes and product innovations,” the statement read.
Mr. Bautista added, “[T]his latest award as 4-Star major regional airline will inspire us to keep getting better and achieve more until we attain the coveted 5-star status as a prime player in global aviation.”
PAL also earned a four-star rating earlier this year from international airline rating organization Skytrax. The award was based on overall customer experience onboard and in the lounge.
In the Philippines, PAL is the only local airline that has been awarded a four-star rating by Sktyrax. Mr. Bautista previously told reporters the company aims to reach a five-star rating from the organization by 2020.
The carrier’s listed operator PAL Holdings, Inc. saw a 7.19% rise in its net attributable loss in the first half to P1.398 billion, largely because of higher losses in the January to March period. — Denise A. Valdez
