Philippine Airlines (PAL) has received an invitation to join the Oneworld Alliance, a move that will integrate the country’s flag carrier into the global network spanning nearly 1,000 destinations.

The announcement was made Saturday, June 6, at the International Air Transport Association Annual General Meeting in Rio de Janeiro. Upon completing its integration process, the Lucio Tan-led carrier will become the 16th member of the alliance and only the second full-member airline based in Southeast Asia, alongside Malaysia Airlines.

The inclusion of PAL, which is currently celebrating its 85th year of operations, expands Oneworld’s footprint in Southeast Asia by adding 31 destinations across the country and regional markets.

For the carrier, the alliance entry aims to drive higher passenger traffic, improve operational efficiencies, and boost its brand presence alongside international carriers such as American Airlines, British Airways, and Cathay Pacific.

“This is a defining and transformative moment for Philippine Airlines,” Lucio C. Tan III, president of parent company PAL Holdings Inc., 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,” he added.

The carrier’s integration into the network will allow members of its Mabuhay Miles frequent flyer program to earn and redeem rewards across all Oneworld member airlines. Top-tier loyal customers will also gain access to priority airport privileges and more than 700 premium lounges worldwide, including dedicated first-class facilities.

Global airlines are increasingly leveraging alliance networks to capture shifting travel demand in the Asia-Pacific region following a protracted post-pandemic recovery. Oneworld has recently expanded its network by integrating carriers like Alaska Airlines and Oman Air to counter rival groupings SkyTeam and Star Alliance.

“PAL's entry into Oneworld supports our long-term strategic growth and strengthens our connectivity across key markets in the Asia Pacific region,” said Robert Isom, chief executive officer of American Airlines and chairman of the Oneworld Governing Board.

The formal integration and alignment of IT systems, fare tables, and codeshare agreements are expected to take several months before full passenger benefits are activated.

Oneworld Chief Executive Officer Ole Orvér said the decision represents an endorsement of the alliance’s global customer offering. "We look forward to welcoming Philippine Airlines into the alliance," Orvér said.