PAL marks 85th year with arrival of first A350-1000 in Southeast Asia
Philippine Airlines marked its 85th anniversary with the unveiling of its first Airbus A350-1000, becoming the first airline in Southeast Asia to operate the long-range widebody aircraft as it signals a renewed push for global competitiveness.
The aircraft was formally unveiled on 18 January 2026 during a ceremony at Lufthansa Technik Philippines in the Macroasia Economic Zone at Villamor Airbase in Pasay City. The event was attended by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and First Lady Liza Araneta Marcos, along with government officials and industry leaders.
PAL Holdings Inc. President Lucio C. Tan III said the arrival of the A350-1000 underscores the airline’s resurgence and long-term vision.
“The A350-1000 aircraft stands as a powerful symbol of our resurgence. It represents our confidence to compete globally, while remaining deeply rooted in who we are as Filipinos. In many ways, the arrival of the Airbus A350-1000 mirrors the Philippines today: resilient, forward-looking, and prepared to engage the world with confidence,” Tan said.
He added that PAL’s transformation remains closely tied to national development.
“As Philippine Airlines continues its transformation, we remain mindful that our journey is inseparable from that of our country,” Tan said. “Our role as the flag carrier is not simply commercial. It is a responsibility that we take very seriously. We exist to connect people, support livelihoods, and contribute meaningfully to the country’s development, consistent with the ideals of Bagong Pilipinas.”
The new flagship aircraft features PAL’s “Sunrise” livery with a commemorative “85 Years” decal. Five A350-1000 units are scheduled for delivery in 2026, with three more arriving in 2027.
President Marcos led a tour of the aircraft, which will be deployed on PAL’s long-haul transpacific routes to the United States mainland and Canada. Configured in a tri-class layout, the A350-1000 seats 382 passengers, with 42 seats in Business Class, 24 in Premium Economy, and 316 in Economy.
The cabin interiors were developed with Lift Aero Design, focusing on comfort, privacy, and functionality. Business Class features 42 full-flat suites with sliding doors arranged in a 1-2-1 configuration, each equipped with a 20-inch 4K entertainment screen and inflight Wi-Fi access. Premium Economy offers recliner seats with legrests, footrests, and 13.3-inch 4K screens, while Economy Class includes a 32-inch seat pitch, adjustable headrests, device holders, and charging ports.
Beyond passenger comfort, the A350-1000 is designed to improve sustainability, offering up to a 25 percent reduction in fuel consumption and carbon dioxide emissions compared to earlier-generation aircraft and compatibility with sustainable aviation fuel. The aircraft also enhances PAL’s cargo and freight capabilities.
PAL, which was recognized as Asia Pacific’s Most On-Time Airline for 2025, also marked the milestone with the launch of a new anniversary jingle performed by Ogie Alcasid, Gary Valenciano, and Martin Nievera.
With the addition of the A350-1000, PAL’s fleet now totals 82 aircraft, reinforcing the airline’s focus on fleet modernization, expanded connectivity, and long-term competitiveness in the global aviation market.
