Philippine Airlines is actively searching for additional A350 and B777 widebodies to support the post-pandemic resumption of long-haul flights. However, they are struggling to secure any, according to president and chief operating officer Stanley Ng. Despite facing a global crisis on airplane parts and supply-chain challenges, the privately-owned flag carrier remains positive for the year, with strong local demand and China reopening. Furthermore, the airline is open to embracing new investors.
Supply-Chain Woes and Competitive Market
In the midst of a global crisis on airplane parts, airlines worldwide are experiencing delivery delays on new aircraft. Many have resorted to leasing used planes or taking NTU (Not Taken Up) planes to cover the delay in delivery. Stanley Ng revealed to the Inquirer newspaper, “If we can get more planes, we can expand immediately, but we can’t. There’s a plan to finalize [new orders], but it will take two years to deliver the aircraft.” Philippine Airlines emerged from a voluntary bankruptcy process 16 months ago, having reduced its fleet size during the pandemic.
Securing more A350 and B777 widebodies has proven difficult for Philippine Airlines, with the earliest delivery of new aircraft expected in 2025. Buying used aircraft is not a practical option due to the time and cost required to reconfigure the interiors to match the carrier’s business model. As a result, the airline will not be launching new long-haul routes this year. Supply-chain bottlenecks have further impacted the airline, causing delays in fixing broken tray tables and seat recliners.
Fleet Growth and Welcoming New Investors
Despite the challenges, parent company PAL Holdings plans to acquire ten more aircraft over the next five years, increasing the fleet size to around 80 aircraft as older jets retire. At present, Philippine Airlines and domestic unit PAL Express operate a total of 75 aircraft, with 13 of these remaining grounded awaiting return to service. The airline is also open to taking in new investors, with Stanley Ng stating, “We are open [to it]. A lot of investors have expressed interest.” Potential investors have come from Hong Kong, China, and the Philippines itself.
Philippine Airlines’ plans to expand its fleet with A350 and B777 widebodies are currently hindered by the global crisis on airplane parts and supply-chain challenges. However, the airline remains positive about the future, focusing on strong local demand and reopening markets such as China. Openness to new investors showcases the airline’s commitment to growth and development in the face of challenges.
Source: Ch-Aviation
First love never dies. I fell in love with airplanes and aviation when I was a kid. My dream was to become a pilot, but destiny led me to another path: to be an aviation digital media content creator and a small business owner. My passion for aviation inspires me to bring you quality content through my website and social accounts. Aviation is indeed in my blood and blog!
