PAL Express (formerly Air Philippines and Airphil Express) is a low-cost airline based in the Philippines. Initially founded in 1995 as Air Philippines, the airline has since undergone multiple changes in ownership and name, and is now a subsidiary of Philippine Airlines. The airline operates on a domestic and international network, servicing major cities and tourist spots in the Philippines and Southeast Asia.

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The airline began operations in 1995, with a single Boeing 737-200 aircraft. It was founded by Filipino businessman Lucio Tan, who was the majority shareholder until 2010. In 2000, Air Philippines acquired the franchise of Southeast Asian Airlines, and began expanding its operations to destinations outside the Philippines. In 2003, the airline was rebranded as Airphil Express.

In 2010, Airphil Express was acquired by Philippine Airlines, becoming a subsidiary of the airline. The airline was rebranded once again as PAL Express, and began operating as a low-cost carrier in the Philippines. In 2011, the airline launched its first international route to Hong Kong.

In 2012, the airline launched a new line of regional jets, the Bombardier Q400, to replace its aging fleet of 737s. The Q400s allowed the airline to serve destinations with airports that could not accommodate large airliners. The airline also introduced the ATR 72-500, a turboprop aircraft, in 2013.

Throughout its existence, PAL Express has experienced several notable incidents. In 2005, an Air Philippines Boeing 737-200 crashed on approach to Davao International Airport, killing all 131 people on board. In 2013, the airline was investigated by the Civil Aeronautics Board for allegedly allowing passengers to board a flight without proper documentation. The airline was later cleared of any wrongdoing.

In 2014, PAL Express launched a new brand identity and livery, which included a new logo, color scheme, and aircraft livery. The airline also introduced new routes to Malaysia and Singapore, as well as additional domestic routes.

Today, PAL Express operates a fleet of 28 aircraft, including the Bombardier Q400, ATR 72-500, and Airbus A321. The airline serves 24 domestic destinations in the Philippines, as well as international destinations in Malaysia, Singapore, and Thailand.

PAL Express has come a long way since its inception in 1995. With the acquisition by Philippine Airlines, the airline has been able to expand its operations and fleet, serving more destinations and providing more affordable air travel to the Filipino people. Despite the occasional incident, PAL Express remains one of the most reliable and affordable airlines in the Philippines.