Philippine Airlines has taken delivery of its first Airbus A350-1000, marking a milestone in the carrier’s long-haul fleet expansion and positioning it among a select group of global operators. The delivery took place in Toulouse, France, on 22 December 2025, with Philippine Airlines becoming the 10th airline worldwide to operate the largest variant of the A350 family.

Configured in a premium three-class layout with 382 seats, the A350-1000 is set to open a new chapter in the airline’s long-haul operations across the Pacific. Its advanced efficiency will enable the national carrier to expand its transpacific network, supporting non-stop services to major destinations in North America.

The aircraft is the first of nine A350-1000s that Philippine Airlines will receive as part of its fleet expansion programme. It will operate alongside the airline’s existing A350-900 fleet, already in service on routes to the United States, further strengthening its widebody strategy. The addition of the A350-1000 supports the airline’s goal of growing long-haul capacity while enhancing operational reliability and the overall travel experience.

The A350 is recognised as the world’s most modern widebody aircraft, setting new standards for intercontinental travel. Its all-new design integrates state-of-the-art technologies and advanced aerodynamics, delivering high levels of operational efficiency alongside passenger comfort. New-generation engines and the extensive use of lightweight materials provide a 25 per cent advantage in fuel burn, operating costs and carbon dioxide emissions compared with previous-generation competitor aircraft.

Passenger comfort is further enhanced by the A350’s Airspace cabin, which features wide seats, high ceilings and ambient lighting designed to create a more relaxing travelling environment.

In line with Airbus’ sustainability objectives, the A350 is already capable of operating with up to 50 per cent Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). Airbus is targeting its aircraft to be capable of operating with up to 100 per cent SAF by 2030.

By the end of November 2025, the A350 Family had secured nearly 1,500 orders from 66 customers worldwide, underlining the aircraft’s strong market position in the long-haul segment.