PHILIPPINE Airlines (PAL) said the first of its nine Airbus A350-1000 aircraft is now under assembly at the Airbus production facility in Toulouse, France, marking a major milestone in the flag carrier’s ongoing fleet modernization program.
The aircraft’s five main structural sections — including the nose, forward fuselage, center fuselage, rear fuselage and wings — are currently being fitted with provisions for electrical, air, and water systems before being transferred to the final assembly line. There, advanced onboard systems, ducting, and flight control mechanisms will be installed.
“We’re happy to share with you a glimpse into our very first A350-1000,” PAL president Richard Nuttall said. “We’re set to take delivery of the plane in the fourth quarter of 2025. The fleet game-changer will significantly boost PAL’s passenger capacity and reinforce our commitment to delivering world-class service.”
The first A350-1000 will be followed by eight more units scheduled for delivery between 2026 and 2028, the airline said.
PAL executive vice president and chief operating officer Carlos Luis Fernandez said the selection of the A350-1000 aligns with the airline’s strategic need for flexibility in balancing passenger demand with capacity.
The A350-1000, powered by Rolls-Royce Trent XWB-97 engines, offers a maximum range of 16,100 kilometers (8,700 miles) and is designed for ultra-long-haul routes with enhanced fuel efficiency and lower carbon emissions. Each aircraft will carry 382 passengers in a tri-class configuration—business, premium economy and economy.
In addition to the widebody orders, PAL is also set to receive 13 new Airbus A321neo regional jets starting in 2026, further enhancing its short- and medium-haul network. / KOC