Both houses of Congress and Malacañang approved the extension of Air Philippines' franchise for the next 25 years, according to PAL Express Officer-in-Charge Rabbi Vincent Ang's official statement issued Wednesday, April 27.
Air Philippines operates as PAL Express, a wholly owned subsidiary of flag carrier Philippine Airlines (PAL).

The government extended the airline's franchise under Republic Act No. (RA) 11682.
"This is a welcome affirmation of the government's confidence in our airline's capability to address the air transport needs of the flying public," the OIC stated.
"We are grateful for their trust, and we pledge to continue working together with our stakeholder partners to help shape the growth of Philippine aviation."
"We assure the public that Air Philippines will continue to uphold the highest standards of safety and service as we transport people and cargo across our extensive route network,” Ang pledged.
PAL Express, legally known as Air Philippines Corporation was re-branded for the third time now, first as Air Philippines, then Airphil Express.
As PAL's codeshare partner, PAL Express operates as a full service carrier within a low-cost model.
It was the flag carrier's answer to Cebu Pacific's dominance in the Philippines' budget travel market.