PHILIPPINE AIRLINES (PAL) has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Airbus to accumulate nine additional A350-1000 aircraft, with purchase rights for five more, because the flag carrier accelerates its long-haul expansion and fleet renewal program.
In a press release on Tuesday, PAL Holdings, Inc., which operates Philippine Airlines, said the agreement was announced in the course of the Farnborough International Airshow in the UK.
The order will expand PAL’s Airbus A350-1000 fleet, which the airline said will remain its flagship aircraft for long-haul operations.
“The A350-1000 will proceed to define the long run of our international operations for a few years to come back,” PAL Holdings President and Chief Operating Officer Lucio C. Tan III said.
“As the primary and currently the one airline in Southeast Asia to operate the Airbus A350-1000, Philippine Airlines has experienced firsthand the aircraft’s exceptional range, fuel efficiency, reliability, and passenger comfort. It has expanded our reach across North America, while delivering the world-class travel experience our customers deserve,” he added.
PAL currently operates two Airbus A350-1000 aircraft on long-haul routes, including nonstop flights from Manila to Recent York and Toronto. Seven more aircraft from the airline’s 2023 order are scheduled for delivery by 2028.
The second batch of nine aircraft is anticipated to be delivered between 2034 and 2036.
PAL also secured purchase rights for five additional A350-1000 aircraft to support future fleet requirements and market opportunities.
“We’re proud that PAL is strongly expanding its A350-1000 flagship fleet, flying the flag of the Philippines internationally,” said Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, executive vice-president for sales at Airbus Industrial Aircraft.
“This agreement marks a vital milestone in deepening our partnership with Philippine Airlines. Being the long-range leader, the A350-1000 is the right platform for the airline to construct its future long-haul network and meet continued growth, especially in competitive premium transpacific markets. We stay up for finalizing this latest order soon,” he added.
Configured in a three-class layout, the A350-1000 features business class suites with privacy doors, a premium economy cabin, and an upgraded economy class cabin. Airbus said the aircraft also incorporates advanced composite materials and next-generation aerodynamics designed to enhance fuel efficiency and reduce carbon emissions compared with earlier-generation aircraft.
Individually, PAL on Monday signed an agreement with GE Aerospace for GEnx-1B engines that may power the airline’s 15 Boeing 787-10 Dreamliners, that are scheduled for delivery between 2031 and 2034 as a part of its fleet modernization program. — Ashley Erika O. Jose