PHILIPPINE AIRLINES (PAL) has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Boeing Co. to accumulate as much as 20 Boeing 787-10 Dreamliner aircraft as a part of the flag carrier’s fleet modernization program.
The agreement, announced on Monday on the Farnborough International Airshow in the UK, covers 15 aircraft, with options for five more.
PAL expects deliveries between 2031 and 2034, with the primary aircraft scheduled to reach in 2031.
“This investment manifests our confidence in the longer term of Philippine Airlines and the continued growth of air travel,” Lucio C. Tan III, president and chief operating officer of PAL Holdings, Inc., said in a press release.
“The Boeing 787-10 will strengthen our medium and long-haul fleet, allowing us to supply a good higher travel experience for our customers while improving operational efficiency and supporting our long-term sustainability goals,” he added.
The agreement marks PAL’s first Boeing aircraft commitment since 2007 and coincides with the airline’s 80-year partnership with the US aircraft manufacturer.
PAL said it stays the one Philippine carrier operating Boeing aircraft for business passenger flights.
Stephanie Pope, president and chief executive officer of Boeing Business Airplanes, said the agreement marks “a very important step forward” in the businesses’ longstanding partnership.
The Boeing 787-10 aircraft will form a part of PAL’s fleet renewal program, which goals to enhance fuel efficiency and reduce carbon emissions through using newer-generation aircraft.
PAL said the aircraft can even support its regional growth strategy while offering updated cabin products and other passenger comfort features.
Boeing said several of its suppliers, including Moog, Rockwell Collins, and JAMCO, operate production facilities within the Philippines that manufacture components for the 787 program. — Ashley Erika O. Jose