FILIPINOS are known to make the most of their money when it comes to purchases, including travel. But in recent years, a surge in business class bookings has been seen among Filipino travelers, who pay three to six times more than the cost of an economy class ticket.
Travel group, Trevolution, saw a 79 percent surge in business class bookings among Filipino travelers in 2023, a trend that is expected to continue.
Rajah Travel President and CEO Aileen Clemente sees a combination of factors for the surge.
“Filipinos are now more aware of business class travel. They have also become savvy with maximizing their rewards points and even from their credit card participations, to avail of upgrades,” Clemente said.
Airlines have also been improving their business class products and services, which have attracted Filipino travelers, especially on long-haul flights.
“With some airlines, maganda na kasi talaga ‘yung business class, ang laki nung differentiation versus economy so nakikita nila ‘yung comfort,” Clemente added.
The product and service premiums that airlines offer range from amenities, seat pitches, more comfortable legrooms, in-flight entertainment systems, and special meals.
Turkish Airlines, for its part, has on-board or flying chefs to serve 5-star level dining. In its hub in Istanbul, a massive business lounge with top notch dining, rest and entertainment facilities ensures comfort for its business class clients.
The aforementioned travel group sees business class travel growing further in the Philippines with improved consumer spending, economic resilience and an increase in the number of Filipinos aspiring for premium flying experiences. (ABS-CBN News)
