Philippine Airlines (PAL) operated six Airbus A350-900s until the pandemic hit, which forced the airline to file for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection. As a result, PAL had to return four of its A350-900s, leaving only two in the fleet, namely RP-C3501 and RP-C3508, the latter known as the “Love Bus.” So, where does PAL currently fly these two remaining A350-900s?
The A350-900 is the most advanced and modern aircraft in PAL’s fleet, carrying 295 passengers in a tri-class configuration: business class, premium economy, and economy. This aircraft was specifically configured for ultra-long-haul routes, making it ideal for PAL’s longest flights.
Ultra-Long-Haul Flights
Most of the time, PAL deploys its A350-900s on its longest routes: Manila-New York-Manila and Manila-Toronto-Manila. Currently, PAL’s longest route is the Manila to New York flight, which takes around 17 hours. This is followed by the Toronto route, which takes about 16 hours. While a Boeing 777-300ER is sometimes used on these routes when an A350-900 is unavailable, the A350-900 is typically the aircraft of choice for these ultra-long-haul flights.
However, New York and Toronto are not the only destinations for PAL’s A350-900s. Based on FlightRadar24 data, these aircraft are also deployed on flights to San Francisco (PR104/105) and Los Angeles (PR112/113). Given that the A350-900 is PAL’s most modern aircraft, it would provide a better passenger experience on these routes compared to the older 777s.
Regional and Domestic Flights
PAL does not limit its A350 to transpacific routes. In recent months, PAL has also deployed the A350-900 on select regional routes. For example, the A350-900 has been used on Manila-Hong Kong flights, particularly PR300/301 and PR318/319. In June, these flights regularly featured the A350. The aircraft has also been used on certain flights to Bangkok, such as PR730/731. While the A350-900 is not regularly deployed on these routes, it does make occasional appearances.
In August, PAL also utilized the A350 on a Manila-Seoul Incheon flight (PR468) and a Manila-Ho Chi Minh flight (PR591/592).
Domestically, PAL occasionally flies the A350s on routes to General Santos and, more rarely, Cebu. Before the pandemic, when PAL had a larger A350 fleet, these aircraft were regularly used on flights to Cebu, General Santos, and Davao. For instance, an A350 was deployed on a Manila-Cebu flight (PR1849/1850) on July 19, though such instances are rare, with Cebu flights mostly serviced by PAL Express.
Given that there are only two A350-900s remaining in PAL’s fleet, their deployment is somewhat erratic. They are most commonly used on ultra-long-haul routes and select regional flights, but it is rare to see them on domestic routes or other regional flights. The best way to catch an A350-900 on your flight is to check the aircraft type when booking.
Reflection on the A350-900 Fleet Reduction
While it was necessary for PAL to return four of its A350-900s as part of the Chapter 11 restructuring, it still raises questions about whether returning all four was the right move. Keeping those four aircraft might have alleviated some of the current issues with canceled and delayed flights. Additionally, the A350-900 would likely be a perfect fit for PAL’s Seattle flights, offering better efficiency and passenger comfort.
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