Philippine Airlines (PAL) now operates four Airbus A350 aircraft as the carrier continues strengthening its long-haul fleet for international operations, particularly on routes connecting the Philippines with North America and other key destinations.
The airline is expected to grow its A350 fleet to eight aircraft by the end of the year, including two Airbus A350-900s and six larger Airbus A350-1000s. The expansion forms part of PAL’s long-term strategy to modernise its widebody operations and improve efficiency on high-demand international routes.
PAL also still holds options for three additional Airbus A350-1000 aircraft from its original order, which included nine firm orders and three purchase options. Industry observers believe the airline could eventually exercise those options as part of a future plan to gradually replace its aging Boeing 777 fleet.
Despite the growing number of Airbus aircraft, analysts suggest it remains unlikely that Philippine Airlines will move toward an all-Airbus fleet. The airline’s strong focus on the North American market continues to make a mixed widebody fleet important for operational flexibility and long-haul network planning.