Here's What You'll Get on Philippine Airlines' Upgraded Comfort Class Seats

The strategy for most airlines in the past was quantity over quality—squeeze in as many seats in economy as they can to fit more passengers. But there has been a noticeable shift in recent years to focus on more premium seats as airlines discover they generate higher yields than coach fares. 

In the U.S., for example, economy seats account for 79.3 percent of seats between the U.S. and Europe, down from nearly 81.9 percent in 2018, before the pandemic, according to a report by NBC News, citing date from aviation data firm Cirium. Meanwhile, business-class seats’ share of seats sold has grown slightly, from 12.9 percent to 13.5 percent though premium economy’s share has increased even more, making up 6.4 percent of seats sold, up from 4.2 percent five years ago.

This is the reason why airlines like Delta, JetBlue Airways, United Airlines, American Airlines, Finnair and Lufthansa have announced upgraded first-class seats, suites with sliding doors or premium economy cabins.

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In the Philippines, flag carrier Philippine Airlines has announced upgrades to its Comfort Class seats, or what it calls its premium economy. The airline first rebranded its premium economy to Comfort Class about a year ago in September 2022 and has been offered on domestic flights operated by the airline’s Airbus A330 Bi-class, Airbus A321ceo, Airbus A320 and De Havilland DHC-8-400 Next Generation aircraft.

This time, PAL says passengers flying in Comfort Class will now have access to the airline's Mabuhay Lounges in Manila, Davao, Iloilo, and Cebu, and will also be able to check-in for their flights at dedicated check-in counters, have assigned overhead bins for their carry-on luggage, and enjoy more premium inflight snack options, including PAL’s newest gourmet sandwiches—Chicken Waldorf Sandwich, Crunchy Salmon with Celery and Parmesan Sandwich and more.

In addition, Comfort Class passengers who are members of Philippine Airlines' Mabuhay Miles program will have an increased mileage accrual of 115 percent.

PAL’s Comfort Class offers seats with more legroom, complimentary blankets and pillows, reserved seats near or at the front of the cabin for faster and easier boarding and deplaning, and an assigned lavatory and amenities on select aircraft. Passengers are also provided 25 kilograms free check-in baggage allowance and are served a welcome beverage. 

“These improvements to our Comfort Class service will provide our passengers with a more pleasant experience when they fly on our domestic routes. From increased mileage accrual and free baggage allowance, Mabuhay Lounge access, to more meal options, we hope to entice more travelers to try and experience PAL’s Comfort Class first-hand,” said Yosh Yoshida, PAL’s head of product and service management.