The latest agreement came a day after the airline placed an order for 15 Boeing 787 Dreamliners, with options for five more aircraft, marking its first Boeing aircraft order in more than two decades.
The fleet expansion highlights PAL’s ambition to rebuild and grow its global network following its emergence from U.S. Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection at the end of 2021. The restructuring process helped the airline reduce its debt burden and streamline its operations, creating a stronger foundation for future growth.
Philippine Airlines, which is regarded as Asia’s first commercial airline, is among several Asian and Middle Eastern carriers investing heavily in new-generation widebody aircraft as international travel demand continues to recover. Airlines across the region are seeking more fuel-efficient planes to expand routes and replace older fleets.
The new Airbus A350-1000 aircraft are expected to play a key role in PAL’s long-haul strategy, particularly on routes connecting the Philippines with North America, where demand remains strong due to the country’s large overseas Filipino community.
PAL President Richard Nuttall said the first aircraft from Tuesday’s Airbus order is expected to be delivered by early 2030, adding that the airline remains focused on improving its international connectivity.
The carrier, controlled by Filipino billionaire Lucio Tan’s group, is positioning itself for wider global expansion as the Philippines develops plans for a new airport and PAL looks to increase its presence in international markets.
Last month, Philippine Airlines also announced plans to join the Oneworld Alliance, ending its position as one of the few major Asian flag carriers not affiliated with a global airline alliance.
PAL currently operates a mixed fleet that includes Boeing 777 aircraft and Airbus A350 jets on some of its longest routes, while Airbus A330s and narrowbody aircraft serve shorter international and domestic destinations.
The airline previously ordered nine Airbus A350-1000 aircraft designed for ultra-long-haul services, with the first unit delivered in December 2025. The latest commitments further underline PAL’s ambition to become a stronger player in global aviation and provide expanded travel options for passengers worldwide.