Non-immigrant visitors, or anyone who uses the visa waiver program, (VWP) to the United States, cannot fly via Philippine Airlines as its US Customs Visa Waiver Carrier Agreement has expired.
In a statement, the flag carrier said its agreement with the US Customs Border Protection (USCBP) has lasped and PAL is currently in the process of renewal.
"We are currently in coordination with the US Customs Border Protection regarding this matter," PAL said.
"Most PAL passengers, notably Filipinos with valid US visas or US citizens/residents, are not affected and may travel on our flights to the United States," PAL added.
PAL management said it will assist via email notification to VWP passengers traveling to the US under the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA), to ensure that passengers fly to their destinations via alternative flights, with the following options:
Primary option
Transfer To Another Airline. PAL is prepared to assist passengers in identifying suitable alternative flights with other airlines that are able to carry VWP passengers at this time.
It strongly advised against purchasing tickets independently from another airline; PAL will manage the transfer process for passengers.
Alternative option
Travel Credits or Refund. As an aternative, passengers may opt to refund tickets or convert the value of their tickets into travel credits, which will be valid for future ticket purchases for a period of two years.
PAL said passengers may also reach the airline through the following contact details: https://www.philippineairlines.com/en/about-us/contact-us/global-reservation-hotline
"Rest assured that we are continuing to work with the US authorities on full renewal of our VWP arrangement," the carrier said.
The visa waiver program, administered by the Department of Homeland Security, permits citizens of 40 countries to travel to the United States for business and tourism for stays of up to 90 days without a visa.
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