Excitement is in the air as Philippine Airlines (PAL) officially signs a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Airbus for an order of A350-1000 jets, marking a milestone in their long-haul fleet modernization program. This agreement confirms the purchase of nine A350-1000s, an addition that promises to transform PAL’s non-stop services from Manila to North America, including the East Coast of the US and Canada. As the latest and most significant version of the A350 Family of long-range jetliners, the A350-1000s are set to redefine the Philippine flag carrier’s Ultra Long Haul Fleet project.
Expanding the Horizon: The A350-1000 Advantage
The A350-1000’s arrival is an exciting development for Philippine Airlines. These aircraft join two A350-900s already serving destinations in North America, Asia, and Australia. Now, PAL can deliver non-stop transpacific and transpolar routes in both directions throughout the year, including some of the longest commercial flights globally, such as those connecting the Philippines with New York and Toronto.
Captain Stanley K. Ng, President and Chief Operating Officer of Philippine Airlines, articulated, “The A350-1000 combines greater range capability with the higher capacity we need to serve future demand. It’s the perfect aircraft to enable PAL to meet its expansion plans in a sustainable way, while offering passengers the highest levels of onboard comfort.”
With an expanded A350 fleet, PAL can once again provide a direct link from the Philippines to Europe, connecting the world while growing trade and tourism.
An Airline with a Vision: PAL’s Commitment to Excellence
The new A350-1000s will feature a premium layout with separate Business Class, Premium Economy, and Economy Class cabins, enhancing the flying experience for passengers. To accommodate future expansion to new long-haul destinations, PAL has also secured purchase rights for three additional A350-1000s.
Christian Scherer, Airbus Chief Commercial Officer, said, “Flying passengers farther and in greater comfort, the A350 brings a step-change in fuel efficiency and an immediate significant contribution to reduced emissions. These are the attributes that have made the A350 the choice of leading airlines worldwide.”
Looking Ahead: The A350’s Future with PAL
The first of the nine A350-1000s is expected to be delivered to PAL by the fourth quarter of 2025, with deliveries continuing until 2027. These additions will further reinforce PAL’s full-service network, currently operating various Airbus types, including A330-300s on services to the Middle East, Australia, and various points in Asia.
The MOU between Philippine Airlines and Airbus marks a pivotal moment in PAL’s journey. The Airbus A350-1000 not only strengthens PAL’s fleet but also ensures its passengers enjoy an unparalleled flying experience. As PAL continues to soar, it reaffirms its commitment to connect the world and promote trade and tourism, embodying its mission of being the Heart of the Filipino.
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