New Partnership Boosts Travel Choices: Southwest Airlines Joins Forces with Philippine Airlines

Published on November 5, 2025

In a move that promises to transform travel across the Pacific, Southwest Airlines has partnered with Philippine Airlines (PAL) to offer an expanded range of travel options for passengers. This partnership, which takes effect immediately, connects Philippine Airlines’ extensive network in Asia, Australia, and the Middle East with Southwest’s U.S. domestic and interisland routes. The collaboration will benefit travelers flying between the Philippines and the United States, providing seamless connections and greater flexibility for passengers.

Expanding Travel Connectivity Across the Pacific

The new partnership opens up dozens of travel options for passengers connecting between the U.S. and Philippine Airlines’ destinations. Southwest Airlines operates an extensive number of flights from key U.S. hubs, including Los Angeles (LAX), Seattle/Tacoma (SEA), San Francisco (SFO), and Honolulu (HNL). This strategic alliance enables Philippine Airlines passengers to seamlessly travel to and from these major U.S. airports, benefiting from Southwest’s wide-ranging domestic network.

Passengers booking flights through third-party travel websites can now enjoy easy connections between Philippine Airlines and Southwest Airlines, streamlining the entire travel experience from departure to arrival. Southwest Airlines also facilitates easy access to Hawaii, with nearly 90 daily flights between U.S. cities and the islands, providing a convenient travel option for Philippine Airlines passengers seeking to visit Hawaii.

Enhanced Flexibility and Travel Experience for Global Passengers

The new codeshare agreement offers travelers unprecedented flexibility. Philippine Airlines passengers can now book one single ticket for flights that combine both airlines’ routes, making the journey across the Pacific smoother and more convenient. Whether flying to Manila, Cebu, Clark, or Davao, passengers can now connect easily to Southwest Airlines’ flights to numerous domestic destinations.

The partnership also extends to Southwest Airlines travelers looking to explore destinations within Asia and the Middle East, with connections through Philippine Airlines’ extensive network. This collaboration strengthens the airlines’ ability to serve their respective global customer bases, providing more options for tourists, business travelers, and families alike.

Strategic Benefits for Both Airlines

For Southwest Airlines, the partnership with Philippine Airlines builds upon its already strong presence in the Hawaiian Islands and California, both important markets for international travelers. Southwest has long been a leader in U.S. domestic travel, and this partnership extends its reach by offering more international travel opportunities. With over 72,000 employees and a history of award-winning service, Southwest aims to enhance its offering to customers, including greater choice, competitive pricing, and an enhanced cabin experience set to debut in January 2026.

Philippine Airlines benefits from this partnership by offering its passengers easier access to popular destinations across the United States. This partnership expands PAL’s growing global reach, providing greater flexibility and convenience for passengers flying from the Philippines and other key Asian cities to the U.S. The ability to connect seamlessly with Southwest’s domestic network offers more options for travelers flying into California, Hawaii, or other U.S. destinations.

Building Stronger Ties Across Continents

The agreement between Southwest Airlines and Philippine Airlines is more than just a business deal; it strengthens the cultural and economic ties between North America, Asia, and the Philippines. With Philippine Airlines being Asia’s first commercial airline, this collaboration represents a historic move toward greater global integration.

Both airlines emphasize their shared commitment to creating an easier, more flexible travel experience. Christoph Gaertner, Vice President of Revenue Management at Philippine Airlines, highlighted that this partnership allows both airlines to offer their passengers a “seamless connection” across their networks, making it easier for people to travel between the Philippines, the U.S., and beyond.

A Gateway to Global Exploration for Tourists

This partnership is especially exciting for global tourists looking to explore new destinations. Whether you’re visiting the stunning beaches of Palawan, exploring the bustling streets of Manila, or relaxing on the islands of Hawaii, this collaboration makes travel to and from these destinations easier than ever. Southwest Airlines is making it more convenient for travelers to experience the world, while Philippine Airlines continues to build its reputation as a leading international carrier.

As Southwest Airlines looks to expand its international network, future transatlantic partnerships are also on the horizon. For now, the Southwest-Philippine Airlines partnership promises to offer travelers better, more efficient ways to connect with destinations across the globe.

Conclusion: More Travel Opportunities and Flexibility

In conclusion, the partnership between Southwest Airlines and Philippine Airlines marks an important milestone for both airlines and their passengers. By combining Southwest’s U.S. network with Philippine Airlines’ Asian routes, travelers now have a wealth of new travel options, making it easier than ever to explore the world. As both airlines continue to work together, expect even more opportunities for seamless global travel.