Philippine Airlines (PAL) has taken another major step in modernizing its fleet after signing a memorandum of understanding with Airbus at the Farnborough International Airshow to acquire up to 14 A350-1000 aircraft. The agreement covers nine firm acquisitions along with purchase rights for five additional jets, positioning the fuel-efficient widebody as the carrier’s flagship aircraft for long-haul expansion.
Airline and Airbus executives highlighted the deal as a major milestone for Southeast Asia’s only current operator of the A350-1000. PAL already flies two of the aircraft on key routes, including nonstop flights from Manila to New York and Toronto, with seven more from a previous 2023 order scheduled for delivery by 2028. The newly ordered batch is expected to arrive between 2034 and 2036, giving PAL the flexibility to expand its premium transpacific and international routes.
The new A350-1000s will feature a three-class layout with Business Class suites, Premium Economy, and updated Economy cabins, alongside modern inflight entertainment and connectivity. Designed with composite materials and advanced aerodynamics, the aircraft significantly cuts fuel consumption and carbon emissions to help support PAL’s sustainability goals.
This fleet expansion comes on top of another major long-haul investment. PAL is also acquiring 20 Boeing 787-10 Dreamliners, which are scheduled for delivery between 2031 and 2034, further cementing the airline’s broad fleet renewal strategy for the coming decade.
