Celebrating 85 years in the skies, Philippine Airlines (PAL) marked a significant milestone by unveiling its first Airbus A350-1000, becoming Southeast Asia’s pioneer operator of this long-range widebody aircraft.
At a distinguished event held at Lufthansa Technik Philippines in Macroasia Economic Zone, Villamor Airbase, PAL Holdings President Lucio C. Tan III welcomed President Ferdinand ‘Bongbong’ Marcos, Jr., First Lady Liza Araneta Marcos, and other key government officials to witness this historic occasion.
PAL Holdings President Tan III emphasized the airline’s dedication to boosting national tourism and enhancing global competitiveness, stating: “The A350-1000 symbolizes our revival and global ambitions while reflecting our Filipino spirit. Its arrival parallels the Philippines’ resilience, progressiveness, and readiness to engage the world confidently.” He added, “As PAL evolves, our journey remains intertwined with the nation’s. Our role extends beyond business—it’s a serious commitment to connecting people, supporting livelihoods, and driving development in line with Bagong Pilipinas ideals.”
The new flagship dons PAL’s signature “Sunrise” livery with an “85 Years” decal, honoring its heritage and future vision. Five A350-1000s will join the fleet in 2026, with three more arriving in 2027.
President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. led a tour of this advanced aircraft, poised to enhance PAL’s transpacific routes to the US Mainland and Canada. Te tri-class layout seats 382 passengers: 42 in Business Class, 24 in Premium Economy, and 316 in Economy.
Designed with Lift Aero Design, the cabin prioritizes comfort, privacy, and functionality.
Business Class “Mabuhay Studios” offers 42 full-flat suites with sliding doors in a 1-2-1 configuration, ensuring aisle access for all.
Each suite features a 20-inch 4K entertainment screen, inflight Wi-Fi with full messaging, browsing, and streaming, power outlets, USB-A and USB-C ports, and wireless charging.
Premium Economy provides spacious recliners with leg and footrests, private mini-tables, ample storage, power outlets, USB ports, and 13.3-inch 4K screens. Complimentary full-flight messaging and browsing keep travelers connected throughout the journey.
Economy Class elevates comfort with 32-inch seat pitch, generous recline, adjustable headrests, personal device holders, and dual USB charging options, enhancing long-haul travel comfort
Beyond passenger comfort, the A350-1000 sets new standards in sustainable aviation, cutting fuel use and CO2 emissions by up to 25% versus older models, supporting sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), and expanding cargo capacity to boost PAL’s freight services.
Honored as Asia Pacific’s Most On-Time Airline for 2025, PAL reaffirms its commitment to operational excellence. The achievement was celebrated with a new jingle—performed by world-renowed OPM singers Ogie Alcasid, Gary Valenciano, and Martin Nievera—embodying 85 years of advancing Philippine aviation.
With the arrival of the A350-1000, PAL’s fleet grows to 82 aircraft, highlighting its dedication to modernizing operations and expanding networks for enhanced efficiency, connectivity, and global competitiveness.
