Philippine Airlines (PAL), the nation’s flag carrier, reached a historic milestone with the official delivery of its first Airbus A350-1000. The aircraft, registered as RP-C3510, touched down in Manila this morning, making PAL the first airline in Southeast Asia to operate this specific state-of-the-art variant.
The arrival of the A350-1000 marks a bold new chapter for the airline as it embarks on a comprehensive fleet modernization program, aiming to retire its aging Boeing 777-300ER aircraft and establish a new global standard for Filipino hospitality in the skies.
The A350-1000 is not merely an addition to the fleet; it introduces a completely redesigned interior focused on passenger privacy, comfort, and modern technology.
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Business Class: Passengers will experience the Collins Aerospace Elevation Suite. These next-generation pods offer full privacy doors, direct aisle access, and a fully-flat bed configuration, transforming the long-haul experience into a private sanctuary.
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Premium Economy & Economy: Both cabins feature the award-winning Collins Aerospace MiQ seats. These seats provide enhanced ergonomic support, increased legroom, and high-definition personal entertainment screens, significantly outpacing the comfort levels of the outgoing fleet.
The A350-1000 is widely regarded as the world’s most advanced large widebody aircraft. Powered by Rolls-Royce Trent XWB-97 engines, it offers a 25% reduction in fuel burn and CO2 emissions compared to previous-generation aircraft, aligning with PAL’s commitment to more sustainable aviation practices.
“Today is more than just a delivery; it is a promise kept to our passengers,” said a PAL spokesperson. “The A350-1000 represents the pinnacle of modern travel. By bringing this aircraft to the Philippines, we are ensuring that the ‘Heart of the Filipino’ shines brighter on the global stage with world-class technology and unparalleled comfort.”
Following its arrival, RP-C3510 will undergo a series of proving flights and will initially be deployed on high-demand regional routes within Asia to facilitate crew familiarization. Once integrated, the aircraft will become the backbone of PAL’s ultra-long-haul network, serving flagship destinations in North America and Europe.
