Philippine Airlines Celebrates 85 Years with Launch of New Flagship A350-1000

PAL Holdings, Inc. President, Lucio C. Tan III

Philippine Airlines Celebrates 85 Years with Launch of New Flagship A350-1000

By Bing Jabadan – TheNATIONWEEK.com | January 26, 2026

MANILA, Philippines — Flag carrier Philippine Airlines (PAL) commemorates its 85th anniversary on Friday, January 18, 2026, with a significant milestone: the introduction of its first Airbus A350-1000, making it the first airline in Southeast Asia to operate this advanced long-range widebody aircraft.

The momentous occasion took place at Lufthansa Technik Philippines, located within the Macroasia Economic Zone at Villamor Airbase. PAL Holdings, Inc. President Lucio C. Tan III addressed an audience of esteemed government officials and dignitaries, highlighting the importance of this event.

Tan expressed the airline’s dedication to enhancing the country’s tourism sector and bolstering its global competitiveness, stating, “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.”

He further emphasized PAL’s integral role as the flag carrier, noting, “Our role 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 showcases the airline’s signature “Sunrise” livery, adorned with a commemorative “85 Years” decal, symbolizing both its rich heritage and ambitious future. PAL plans to incorporate five A350-1000 aircraft into its fleet in 2026, with an additional three set to arrive in 2027.

Guests were invited to explore the state-of-the-art aircraft, designed to enhance PAL’s long-haul transpacific services to the US mainland and Canada. The A350-1000 features a spacious tri-class configuration, accommodating 382 passengers: 42 in Business Class, 24 in Premium Economy, and 316 in Economy.

The cabin experience, crafted in collaboration with Lift Aero Design, prioritizes comfort, privacy, and functionality. The “Mabuhay Studios” Business Class offers 42 full-flat suites with sliding doors for added privacy, arranged in a 1-2-1 layout for direct aisle access. Each suite is equipped with a 20-inch 4K personal entertainment screen, along with complimentary full-flight messaging, browsing, and streaming via inflight Wi-Fi. Additional amenities include in-seat power outlets and wireless charging docks.

Premium Economy features spacious recliner seats with leg rests and footrests, private mini-cocktail tables, and multiple stowage options. Passengers benefit from in-seat power outlets and 13.3-inch 4K personal entertainment screens, ensuring a superior in-flight experience, along with complimentary inflight Wi-Fi.

Economy Class enhances comfort with a 32-inch seat pitch, generous recline, adjustable headrests, and built-in personal device holders, all designed to make long-haul travel more enjoyable.

The A350-1000 also sets a new standard in sustainable aviation, achieving up to a 25 percent reduction in fuel consumption and carbon emissions compared to previous aircraft and is compatible with sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). Its increased cargo capacity further bolsters PAL’s logistics and freight capabilities.

Recognized as Asia Pacific’s Most On-Time Airline for 2025, PAL continues to showcase operational excellence. The celebration included the unveiling of a new jingle performed by Ogie Alcasid, Gary Valenciano, and Martin Nievera, encapsulating the spirit of 85 years of Philippine aviation.

With the addition of the A350-1000, PAL’s fleet now comprises 82 aircraft, underscoring the airline’s commitment to fleet modernization and network expansion, positioning itself for enhanced efficiency and competitiveness in the global aviation arena.