Philippine Airlines Unveils Airbus A350-1000 Expansion

• Philippine Airlines' first Airbus A350-1000 is under production in Toulouse, France, with delivery expected by Q4 2025.
• The A350-1000 will support PAL's long-haul and transpacific expansion with enhanced passenger capacity, fuel efficiency and reduced carbon emissions.
• PAL is modernizing its fleet with a total of 9 A350-1000s and 13 Airbus A321neo aircraft starting 2026.

This is a major milestone as Philippine Airlines (PAL) stated that its first Airbus A350-1000 is already being produced at Airbus premises in Toulouse, France.

The aircraft is the initial one of nine A350-1000 widebody airliners on order from the flag carrier airline of the country, currently being assembled in its structure with most of its basic parts in place, such as the fuselage bodies and the wings. When this is done, the final assembly of the jet will be performed, where systems are installed and quality tests are stringent. The first aircraft is due to be delivered in the fourth quarter of 2025, with eight further ones between 2026 and 2028.

“This is a fleet game-changer,” said PAL President Richard Nuttall, adding that the aircraft would enhance passenger capacity and support PAL’s aim of delivering world-class service.

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The A350-1000 is equipped with Rolls-Royce Trent XWB-97 engines, offering a range up to 16,100 kilometres and a seating capacity of 382 (3 classes). The new widebody is expected to contribute to the expansion of long-haul operations, especially transpacific flights, as it would offer fuel efficiency and be carbon emission friendlier.

According to PAL Executive Vice President and COO Atty. Carlos Luis Fernandez, the aircraft will allow the airline flexibilities in keeping with market demand. The company already has 79 planes and further anticipates receipt of 13 Airbus A321neo local jets starting in 2026. The recent purchase puts PAL on par with other large international airlines that have integrated the A350-1000 to reach some of the longest commercial flights across the globe.