Airbus and Philippine Airlines (PAL) have inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for the acquisition of nine (09) A350-1000s as part of the airline’s Ultra Long Haul Fleet initiative. These aircraft will serve non-stop flights between Manila and North America, with service extending to the East Coast of the United States and Canada.
Adding to its existing fleet of two (02) A350-900s that currently serve destinations in North America, Asia, and Australia, PAL is set to incorporate the A350-1000. These aircraft will also be equipped with a premium layout featuring separate cabins for Business Class, Premium Economy, and Economy Class, similar to the A350-900.
“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. We are committed to offering our passengers the best possible travel experience, and these state-of-the-art aircraft will enable us to do just that as we carry out our mission to connect the world and grow trade and tourism,” according to Captain Stanley K. Ng, President and Chief Operating Officer of Philippine Airlines.
The range of the A350-1000 would enable the airline to fly non-stop transpacific and transpolar routes in both directions all year. These will include some of the longest commercial flights in the world, such as those linking the Philippines with New York and Toronto. With an expanded A350 fleet, PAL will have the ability to once again provide a direct link from the Philippines to Europe.
The A350 is the world’s most modern and efficient widebody aircraft and has set new standards for intercontinental travel. It offers the longest range capability of any commercial airliner in production today and is capable of flying 8,700 nautical miles or 16,100 kilometers non-stop.
“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. We look forward to working closely with our long-standing customer Philippine Airlines as it moves forward with its long-haul fleet modernization program,” said Christian Scherer, Airbus Chief Commercial Officer.
As of the end of April 2023, the A350 Family has secured 928 firm orders from 54 customers worldwide, making it one of the most successful wide-body aircraft models. Presently, 530 A350 aircraft are in operation with 40 airlines, mainly servicing long-haul routes.
Philippine Airlines, which operates a full-service network, utilizes various Airbus models. Alongside the A350 for long-haul intercontinental flights, PAL employs A330-300s for services to the Middle East, Australia, and other destinations in Asia. The national carrier of the Philippines also has a fleet of A320 and A321 single-aisle planes for its extensive domestic and regional network, serving as hubs in Manila and Cebu.