Philippine Airlines has officially taken delivery of its first Airbus A350-1000, becoming the 10th airline in the world to operate the largest variant of the A350 widebody family. The milestone marks a major advancement in the flag carrier’s long-haul strategy, fleet modernisation, and transpacific network expansion.
The aircraft is configured in a three-class premium layout with 382 seats, offering enhanced comfort and greater capacity on long-haul flights. The newly delivered A350-1000 will play a central role in expanding Philippine Airlines’ non-stop connections between Manila and major North American destinations, including the US East Coast.
This delivery represents the first of nine A350-1000 aircraft scheduled to join the airline’s fleet under its widebody expansion plan. These aircraft will complement Philippine Airlines’ current A350-900 fleet and are designed to increase long-haul capacity, improve operational efficiency, and elevate the onboard experience for international passengers.
The arrival of the A350-1000 gives the national airline greater range, lower fuel burn, and improved emissions performance, positioning Philippine Airlines for long-term competitiveness across the Pacific.
A350-1000: Redefining Efficiency and Comfort
The Airbus A350-1000 is regarded as one of the world’s most advanced long-range aircraft, featuring cutting-edge aerodynamics, new generation Rolls-Royce engines, and extensive use of lightweight composite materials. These elements deliver a 25% improvement in fuel burn, operating cost, and CO₂ emissions compared to previous-generation widebodies.
Its spacious Airspace cabin design includes wide seats, high ceilings, larger windows, and customisable ambient lighting — all developed to reduce fatigue and enhance comfort on ultra-long flights.
The aircraft is also capable of operating with up to 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). Airbus plans to raise this capability to 100% SAF across all platforms by 2030, aligning with global industry sustainability goals.
Strong Demand for the A350 Family
The A350 Family continues to be one of Airbus’ most successful widebody programmes, with nearly 1,500 orders from 66 customers worldwide as of November 2025. Demand has been driven by airline requirements for long-range flexibility, reduced emissions, and improved operating economics.
