Understanding the PAL Senior Citizen Discount
Philippine Airlines (PAL) provides a 20% discount and VAT exemption on domestic flights for eligible Filipino senior citizens, in compliance with the Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2010 (RA 9994). This discount applies only to the base fare of regular domestic tickets and is not valid for international flights, promo fares, or ancillary services. To be eligible, you must be a Filipino citizen aged 60 or above.
Step-by-Step Guide for Availing the Discount
You can avail the senior citizen discount when booking PAL domestic flights through several methods:
Method 1: Online Booking
- Visit the PAL website or use the mobile app and enter your domestic flight details.
- Select 'Senior Citizen' from the passenger type options.
- Enter your Senior Citizen ID or other valid government-issued ID details as prompted.
- The 20% discount and VAT exemption will be applied to the base fare. Complete your booking and payment.
- Remember to bring your original OSCA ID or other valid government ID to the airport for verification.
Method 2: Booking via Hotline
- Call the PAL Global Reservations Hotline.
- Inform the agent that you are booking a domestic flight for a senior citizen and wish to avail of the discount.
- Provide the senior citizen's valid ID information to the agent.
- The agent will process the booking with the discount and email the itinerary.
Method 3: Booking via Ticket Office or Travel Agency
- Visit a PAL ticket office or an accredited travel agency in the Philippines.
- Present your OSCA Senior Citizen ID or another acceptable government-issued ID to the agent.
- The agent will process your booking with the applied discount and provide your ticket and itinerary.
Required Identification at Airport Check-In
Presenting a valid ID at check-in is mandatory for discount verification. Accepted IDs include the original OSCA ID card or other government-issued IDs like a passport, driver's license, SSS/GSIS ID, or Voter's ID that show your birth date. Failure to present the correct ID will result in additional charges and a penalty.
Important Considerations
- The discount is exclusively for Filipino citizens aged 60 and above and applies only to domestic flights.
- The senior citizen discount cannot be combined with promotional fares.
- The discount does not cover ancillary services or fees other than the base fare.
- Always carry your original ID for airport verification; photocopies or digital versions are generally not accepted.
- PAL offers courtesy check-in lanes for senior citizens.
Comparison of PAL Booking Methods
| Feature | Online (Website/App) | Reservations Hotline | Ticket Office/Travel Agency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Convenience | High | High | Medium |
| Speed | Instantaneous | Fast | Variable (queue-dependent) |
| Personal Assistance | Limited, online help | Direct agent | Face-to-face support |
| Verification | Enter details online | Provide details to agent | Present ID in person |
| Time Constraint | Available 24/7 | During operating hours | During office hours |
| Payment | Credit card, online banking | Credit card, payment centers | Cash, credit card |
Conclusion: Your Seamless PAL Senior Discount Experience
Availing the senior citizen discount on PAL domestic flights is straightforward through various booking channels. By correctly indicating your senior citizen status during booking and having your valid government-issued ID ready for airport verification, you can benefit from the mandated discount. For the most current information, always check the official Philippine Airlines website.
