MANILA - Philippine Airlines on Friday said it will initiate an IT computer systems upgrade in March in a bid to become a 5-star airline, one of the highest global recognitions in the aviation industry.

The upgrade aims to enhance passenger satisfaction with a smoother "booking-to-boarding" experience, the flag carrier said in a statement.

With the new IT computer system, passengers can experience easier booking, faster check-in, smoother connecting flight transfers, real-time alerts for flight changes, online cash plus miles redemption and more convenient ticket purchases, among others, the airline said.

“We are looking forward to launching a more reliable and passenger-friendly system that is designed for the needs of our customers,” said PAL president CEO Jaime Bautista.

“Every Filipino traveler, every tourist visiting our homeland, every OFW and business person, deserves reliable quality service from the Philippines’ only global airline, and we are determined to carry on our transformation for the greater good of the flying public," he added.

• PAL becomes Philippines' first 4-star airline

UK-based consultancy firm Skytrax awarded Philippine Airlines with a 4-star rating in February 2018.