Philippine Airlines begins Manila–Chicago service

Philippine Airlines (PAL) has launched its first nonstop service between Manila and Chicago, marking a historic milestone for the airline and establishing the first direct air link between the Philippines and the US Midwest. The new route, which commenced on November 9, 2026, further expands PAL's North American network.

The new Manila–Chicago service will provide travellers with improved connectivity between the Philippines and the United States, offering access to Chicago, a major centre for business, manufacturing, technology, healthcare, education and culture. The city also serves as a gateway to the American Midwest and an important hub for global commerce. With a sizeable Filipino-American community and one of the world's busiest aviation hubs, Chicago presents opportunities for tourism, trade, investment and business growth, while strengthening people-to-people connections between the two countries.

“For Philippine Airlines, this is a strategic addition to our North American network. It expands our presence to the Midwest and provides more convenient access to one of the largest regional economies in the United States,” said Atty. Carlos Luis Fernandez, PAL Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer. “We know that many Filipinos and Filipino-Americans in Chicago, Illinois, and neighboring states have long looked forward to a direct and more convenient connection to the Philippines. We are proud to finally make this possible.”

The launch of the Chicago service further expands Philippine Airlines' (PAL) presence in one of its key international markets, making it the airline's eighth destination in the United States and its territories. The addition strengthens PAL's North American network and improves connectivity between the Philippines and major economic centres across the region.

Operating three times a week, the Manila–Chicago service aims to provide convenient connections for both leisure and business travellers. The new route will improve access to the American Midwest through one of North America's major aviation hubs, while supporting tourism, trade, investment and cultural exchange between the two countries.

With the only nonstop service between the Philippines and Chicago, PAL aims to reduce travel times and offer greater convenience for passengers while supporting stronger connections between the two countries through tourism, trade and economic activity.

The Manila–Chicago route further reinforces Philippine Airlines' position as the country's flag carrier and reflects its long-term commitment to expanding its presence in key international markets. The addition of Chicago also strengthens PAL's North American network and increases its capacity to serve growing travel demand across the region.

Passengers on the inaugural flight received commemorative gifts and took part in special launch activities before boarding the historic service. The departure also marked the first use of the new remote bus gate facility at Ninoy Aquino International Airport's (NAIA) Terminal 1, highlighting ongoing improvements as part of the airport's modernisation programme.