Philippine Airlines Signs MoU for Nine Additional Airbus A350-1000s

Airbus has today announced that Philippine Airlines has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to acquire nine additional Airbus A350-1000s, which will double the carrier’s commitment to the type to 18 aircraft.

On Tuesday (July 21, 2026), from the Farnborough International Airshow, Airbus announced that Philippine Airlines (PAL) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for nine A350-1000 widebody aircraft.  This agreement was announced during the show by Lucio C. Tan III, President and Chief Operating Officer of PAL Holdings, Inc., Richard Nuttall, President of Philippine Airlines, together with Lars Wagner, CEO of the Commercial Aircraft business at Airbus, and Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, EVP Sales of the Airbus Commercial Aircraft business.  In addition to the A350, PAL flies A330-300s to the Middle East, Australia and various points in Asia.  The carrier also operates a fleet of A320 and A321 single-aisle aircraft on domestic and regional services.

In Tuesday’s announcement, PAL’s President and Chief Operating Officer, Lucio C. Tan III, said,

“The A350-1000 will continue to define the future of our international operations for many years to come.  As the first and currently the only airline in Southeast Asia to operate the Airbus A350-1000, Philippine Airlines has experienced firsthand the aircraft’s exceptional range, fuel efficiency, reliability, and passenger comfort.  It has expanded our reach across North America, while delivering the world-class travel experience our customers deserve.”

Also commenting on the incremental A350-1000 order, Airbus’ EVP Sales – Commercial Aircraft, Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, said,

“We are proud that PAL is strongly expanding its A350-1000 flagship fleet, flying the flag of the Philippines across the world.  This agreement marks an important milestone in deepening our partnership with Philippine Airlines.  Being the long-range leader, the A350-1000 is the perfect platform for the airline to build its future long-haul network and meet continued growth, especially in competitive premium transpacific markets. We look forward to finalising this new order soon.” 

When finalized, the new contract will double the airline’s total orders for the A350-1000 to 18 aircraft, of which the first two have been delivered this year.  Designated as the carrier’s new flagship, the A350-1000 will enable PAL to further develop their long-haul network, primarily linking Manila with destinations in North America.   PAL has specified a three class configuration for their A350-1000 fleet, accommodating 382 passengers. The layout includes 42 suites in Business Class with privacy doors and fully flat beds, 24 seats in a spacious separate Premium Economy cabin and 316 seats in Economy class. All cabins feature the latest in-flight entertainment (IFE) systems and connectivity.

The Airbus A350 is the world’s most modern widebody aircraft, designed to fly up to 9,700 nautical miles (18,000 km) nonstop.  The aircraft features state-of-the-art technologies and aerodynamics delivering unmatched standards of efficiency and comfort.  Its latest generation Rolls-Royce engines and use of lightweight materials bring a 25 per cent advantage in fuel burn, operating costs and CO2 emissions, compared to previous generation competitor aircraft.  The A350’s unique Airspace cabin offers passengers and crews the latest modern in-flight products for a comfortable flying experience.  As of June 30, 2026, the A350 Family had won 1,595 firm orders from 68 customers worldwide, making it one of the most successful widebody aircraft ever.

Source: Airbus