Future flagship Of Airline's Long Haul Fleet For Services To U.S. And Europe

Philippine Airlines (PAL) has finalized a purchase agreement with Airbus covering the firm order of six A350-900s, plus six options. The contract firms up a Memorandum of Understanding announced earlier this year during the Singapore Airshow.

The A350 XWB will become the flagship of PAL’s future long haul fleet and will be configured with a premium three class layout. The airline will operate the aircraft on non-stop flights to the US, as well as on services to new destinations in Europe.

“We are pleased to finalize this important order and are now defining the final layout for the aircraft,” said Jaime J. Bautista, President & COO of Philippine Airlines. “With the A350 we will introduce a whole new level of comfort for long haul flights, with more personal space in all classes, a quieter cabin and the very latest on-board amenities. At the same time we will benefit from the A350’s enhanced efficiency and ability to fly non-stop on even our longest sector from New York to Manila, all year round.”

“The order from Philippine Airlines underscores A350 XWB’s position as the aircraft of choice in the larger twin aisle category,” said John Leahy, Airbus Chief Operating Officer, Customers. “The A350 XWB has set new standards, combining extra-long range capability with the lowest operating costs of any aircraft in its class. It will be the perfect aircraft for Philippine Airlines to reinforce its position as one of Asia’s leading premium carriers, especially on its longest intercontinental routes.”

(Image provided with Airbus news release)

FMI: www.airbus.com