The Philippine Airlines’ (PAL) Airbus A350-1000 finally arrived in the Philippines this Saturday afternoon – considered the first aircraft of its kind in Southeast Asia.
The Airbus, which was carrying PAL executives when it arrived at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 1, departed in Toulouse, France around 2:28 A.M today (MNL time).
Lucio Tan III, president of PAL Holdings Inc, was among the first passengers of the aircraft.
It landed at the NAIA Terminal 1 at 4:43 p.m and was quickly given a water cannon salute – an aviation tradition that signifies good luck.
PAL said the plane offers three travel classes for all types of passengers – business, premium economy, and economy – accommodating around 382 passengers. The airline bought 9 of its variant, according to an earlier release.
Five A350-1000s will arrive in the Philippines by 2026, according to PAL. Other aircrafts will arrive in 2027.
Carlos Luis Fernandez, PAL’s executive vice president and chief operating officer, had said they selected the A350-1000 due to its “flexibility to balance demand with capacity.”
“The new-generation aircraft are central to responding to the demands of our growing market, regionally and internationally,” said Fernandez in June.
The aircraft is also known for its capacity to operate during longer routes, PAL said.
Aside from the expected arrival of 8 more A350-1000s, PAL said it was also set to receive 13 brand new units of A321neo regional jets in 2026 – supposedly capable of maximum comfort during regional flights.
PAL said it can fly up to 9,000 nautical miles or 16,700 kilometers, doing away with connecting flights.
Among the long-haul flights it will introduce includes those in Canada, Los Angeles, Seattle, San Francisco. It is expected to begin the long-haul flights by the first quarter of 2026.
The aircraft, PAL said, also burns 25 percent less fuel, capable with advanced aerodynamics and high-thrust engine in service.
