PHILIPPINES — Philippine Airlines is expanding its United States network with the launch of nonstop service between Manila and Chicago, marking its eighth destination across the U.S. and its territories. The new route begins on November 9, 2026, strengthening the flag carrier's position as the Southeast Asian airline with the most extensive U.S. network.
A Strategic Gateway to the Midwest
Chicago is considered one of the premier hubs in the United States, and PAL's entry provides direct connectivity to the Midwest region. The service creates vital links to key regional destinations and major Philippine domestic markets through the Manila hub.
PAL President Richard Nuttall said the new route would provide convenient connections for travelers between the Philippines and the U.S. Midwest. The addition of Chicago joins Honolulu, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Seattle, New York, Guam, and Saipan in PAL's growing American network.
Flight Schedule and Aircraft
The service will operate three times weekly every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. Flights depart Manila in the afternoon and arrive at Chicago O'Hare International Airport in the afternoon local time. Return flights depart Chicago in the evening and arrive in Manila early morning on the same days.
The Manila-Chicago route will be operated using the Airbus A350-900, offering a full-service experience across all classes. Passengers can expect onboard dining, generous baggage allowance, and enhanced cabin comfort. The aircraft also strengthens PAL's cargo capabilities for efficient shipment connections to the U.S. Midwest.
Introductory Fares and Booking Options
To mark the launch, PAL is offering special introductory fares with roundtrip Economy base fares starting at USD 667. Bookings must be made from April 16 to May 31, 2026. Travelers can book through the PAL website, mobile app, hotline, ticket offices, and accredited travel agents.
Chicago Department of Aviation Commissioner Michael McMurray welcomed the new service on behalf of Mayor Brandon Johnson. He noted that O'Hare International Airport continues connecting Chicago to key international markets, supporting economic growth, tourism, and cultural ties.
A Legacy of Connecting the Philippines to the World
Philippine Airlines is the Philippines' flag carrier and the country's only full-service network airline. Founded in 1941, PAL is Asia's first commercial airline and has connected the Philippines to the world for 85 years. It operates flights from hubs in Manila, Cebu, Clark, and Davao.
The airline serves 30 domestic and 41 international destinations across Asia, North America, Australia, and the Middle East. PAL is an APEX Four-Star recipient and ranked among the top Asia-Pacific carriers for on-time performance in 2025 according to Cirium. The new Chicago route reinforces its commitment to world-class service and global connectivity.
