The Philippine Airlines (PAL) on Monday confirmed that the first Airbus A350-1000 aircraft will arrive in the fourth quarter this year, marking the start of its fleet renewal and long-haul growth strategy for the flag carrier.
The widebody aircraft, renowned for its ultra-long-range performance and fuel efficiency, will be the first of nine A350-1000s on order. The remaining eight units are scheduled for delivery between 2026 and 2028, according to the airline.
“We’re happy to share with you a glimpse into our very first A350-1000,” said PAL president Richard Nuttall. “The fleet game-changer will significantly boost PAL’s passenger capacity and reinforce our commitment to delivering world-class service.”
Powered by Rolls-Royce Trent XWB-97 engines, the A350-1000 offers a range of up to 16,100 kilometers (8,700 miles), positioning it as a key enabler for PAL’s expansion of transpacific and ultra-long-haul operations. Each aircraft will seat 382 passengers across three cabins: Business Class, Premium Economy, and Economy.
PAL executive vice president and chief operating officer Carlos Luis Fernandez highlighted the strategic role of the aircraft: “We selected the A350-1000 because it will provide us with the flexibility to balance demand with capacity. The new-generation aircraft are central to responding to the demands of our growing market, regionally and internationally.”
Currently operating a fleet of 79 aircraft, PAL is also set to bolster its regional network with the addition of 13 Airbus A321neo jets starting in 2026. The combined widebody and narrowbody orders are part of PAL’s broader modernization push aimed at elevating both domestic and international service standards.
The introduction of the A350-1000 will not only enhance PAL’s capacity and reach but also contribute to its environmental goals through reduced fuel burn and lower emissions.
