Philippine Airlines orders nine Airbus A350 jets, with rights for five more

Philippine Airlines is significantly expanding its long-haul fleet, ordering nine Airbus A350 widebody jets with options for five more. This follows a major order for 15 Boeing 787 Dreamliners placed just a day earlier. These acquisitions are central to the carrier's strategy to bolster its long-haul services and global connectivity.

The airline, Asia's first commercial carrier, has been actively rebuilding its international network since emerging from U.S. Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in late 2021. A comprehensive restructuring at that time reduced debt and streamlined its fleet, paving the way for renewed growth.

The new Airbus A350-1000 aircraft are slated for delivery starting in early 2030. Philippine Airlines President Richard Nuttall highlighted their role in serving ultra-long-haul routes, particularly from Manila to North America. Demand on these routes is strengthened by the substantial Filipino diaspora in North America.

This fleet expansion is part of a broader push for international growth, supported by the Philippines' plans for a new airport. The carrier also recently announced its intention to join the oneworld Alliance, a move that will end its status as one of the few major Asian flag carriers not part of a global airline grouping. The airline currently operates a mix of Boeing 777s and Airbus A350s for its longest routes, alongside A330s and narrowbody jets for shorter services.

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PAL previously ordered nine Airbus A350-1000 aircraft for ultra-long-haul services from Manila to North America, with the first delivered in December 2025.