A growing number of Filipino travelers are choosing to fly in comfort, with business class bookings rising sharply over the past year.
Travel group Trevolution reported a 79 percent increase in business class ticket purchases among Filipinos in 2023, a trend expected to continue as more travelers prioritize comfort and convenience over cost.
Rajah Travel President and CEO Aileen Clemente said several factors are driving this shift, including increased awareness and smarter use of loyalty and credit card reward programs. “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 explained.
She also noted that airlines are making business class more attractive than ever. “With some airlines, maganda na kasi talaga yung business class — ang laki nung differentiation versus economy so nakikita nila yung comfort,” Clemente said.
Airlines have enhanced their premium offerings with larger seats, expanded legroom, personalized dining, and exclusive lounges. Turkish Airlines, for instance, features onboard chefs serving five-star meals and a luxurious business lounge in Istanbul equipped with dining and entertainment facilities.
Trevolution believes the appetite for business class travel among Filipinos will keep growing, supported by stronger consumer spending, economic resilience, and the desire for elevated travel experiences.
