MANILA— Philippine Airlines (PR) is preparing to place one of the largest aircraft orders in its history by splitting a 20-aircraft widebody purchase between Boeing and Airbus, marking a major step in its long-term fleet modernization strategy, Bloomberg reported.
The carrier plans to acquire 10 Boeing 787 Dreamliners and 10 Airbus A350s, with a formal announcement expected during the Farnborough International Airshow in the United Kingdom later this month.
The order represents Philippine Airlines’ first Boeing purchase since 2007 and will strengthen its long-haul operations from Manila Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL).
The airline already operates Airbus A350s and Boeing 777-300ERs, but the new-generation aircraft are expected to gradually replace aging Airbus A330-300s while supporting future international growth.
Philippine Airlines Plans New Widebody Order
Philippine Airlines is balancing its future fleet by investing in aircraft from both of the world’s largest commercial aircraft manufacturers instead of relying on a single supplier.
The reported split order highlights the airline’s strategy to diversify its widebody fleet while maintaining operational flexibility across different long-haul markets.
The Boeing 787 family will return Boeing to Philippine Airlines’ order book after nearly two decades.
At present, Boeing aircraft account for only a small portion of the airline’s commercial fleet, with the Boeing 777-300ER serving as its primary long-range aircraft.
Airbus will also retain a significant role in the carrier’s future plans through additional A350 aircraft. Philippine Airlines already operates the A350, including its flagship A350-1000, making the new order a natural extension of its existing Airbus operations.
Long-Haul Growth and Capacity
The fleet investment aligns with Philippine Airlines’ broader expansion strategy, particularly across North America.
Earlier this month, the airline confirmed plans to increase passenger and cargo capacity on routes serving Vancouver, Toronto, and New York during the upcoming winter season, reflecting continued demand in one of its most important international markets.
The incoming aircraft will improve fuel efficiency while allowing the airline to gradually retire older-generation widebodies.
Both the Boeing 787 and Airbus A350 feature advanced composite airframes, lower fuel burn, longer operating range, and reduced maintenance requirements compared with previous aircraft generations.
For passengers, the modernization is expected to deliver a quieter cabin environment, improved air quality, larger windows, advanced lighting systems, and upgraded inflight entertainment .
Although Philippine Airlines has yet to reveal cabin specifications, the new aircraft are widely expected to introduce next-generation premium seating and enhanced connectivity across multiple cabin classes.
Future Strategy and Modernization
The fleet renewal comes as Philippine Airlines continues strengthening its global position beyond aircraft investments.
The airline is preparing to join the oneworld alliance, expanding connectivity across more than 1,000 destinations through partner airlines while offering additional benefits to Mabuhay Miles members.
Combined with ongoing airport development projects around Manila and continued network expansion, the planned widebody acquisition represents a significant milestone in Philippine Airlines’ long-term strategy.
By investing equally in Boeing and Airbus aircraft, the carrier is positioning itself for sustained international growth while improving efficiency and the passenger experience across its long-haul network.
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