Serious question to those of you who have experience with Clark or both. I always have flown into Manila from the USA and only use Clark for side trips but it is possible to fly into Clark on Cathay (partners) and Asiana Airlines from for example Seoul and Hong Kong.
So if coming from the USA we have to connect somewhere at least once so whether coming from Chicago or west coast really the answer is the same.
First for my equation or question let us NOT consider price at all. I buy miles for a discounted rate that is a long story I won't get into here but always fly on miles and always fly Business or First Class so that is a big factor for me to consider along with airline airport lounge club access which I think is non existent at Clark.
Ok time is also a factor because to me time is money and I know some would stand at a bus stop for 5 hours to catch a 5 hour bus to save 500 pesos but I am not that guy.
So pros of flying into Clark as I see it and feel free to comment or add thoughts
1. Save the 2 hour car ride from Manila although additional total flight time may eat up that time savings
2. Save the 2500 pesos for the car ride to AC from Manila or at least 2000 of it each way by only having to pay 400 or 500 to go to Clark
I don't see any other advantages but if the flight times work for me as far as departure in the USA and I can get a good deal with a mileage booking I want to consider it.
Cons
No Airport Lounge in Clark for free drinks and food like Manila that is included with Business and First Class Flights although not huge value on morning flights when not drinking
Maybe only small planes to Hong Kong or Seoul with no biz class so have to fly cattle for a few hours even though paying for biz or first for the rest of the way home. Especially on partner like Dragon Air but maybe Asiana has Biz not sure on that.
Any thoughts??