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Philippine Airlines takes delivery of the first of five additional Airbus A320 aircraft
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Another A320 will arrive before end-2025, and the rest in 2026
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Each aircraft seats 180 passengers and supports frequency increases on domestic routes
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PAL said the fleet expansion targets enhanced reliability, connectivity, and passenger convenience
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The fleet modernization is part of PAL’s broader enhancement program, including A350-1000s, A321neo jets, and narrow-body upgrades
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PAL Express president Rabbi Vincent Ang said the move improves traveler experience and operational reliability
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PAL cited three consecutive months (Aug–Oct) of top Asia-Pacific On-Time Performance ranking per Cirium
Philippine Airlines has taken delivery of the first of five additional Airbus A320 aircraft intended to reinforce its domestic network and enhance service reliability.
A second A320 is scheduled to arrive before the end of 2025, and the remaining three in 2026.
Each aircraft, configured with 180 seats, will allow the flag carrier to increase flight frequencies and offer more seamless links across major hubs and regional destinations.
“This fleet expansion will give travelers greater flexibility and improved access to different locations across the Philippines,” PAL said in a press release.
“By expanding our A320 fleet, we are providing travelers with more reliable, convenient, and comfortable options,” said Rabbi Vincent Ang, president of PAL Express.
The narrow-body additions form part of PAL’s broader fleet enhancement program, which includes the modernization of its long-haul fleet with Airbus A350-1000s, upgrades to existing narrow-body jets, and plans to acquire new A321neo aircraft. Ang said these investments are central to improving operational reliability and elevating the passenger experience.
“Right-sizing our fleet enables PAL to maintain and improve our On-Time Performance (OTP) scores, ensuring we continue to operate with the highest standards of reliability, safety, and efficiency,” he said.
He added that PAL was recognized by Cirium as the Asia-Pacific leader in OTP from August to October this year.
Ahead of the peak travel season, PAL increased frequencies on key domestic routes such as Butuan, Cagayan de Oro, Cotabato, Legazpi (Daraga), Dumaguete, and Tacloban to boost nationwide connectivity.
READ: PAL expands international flights, capacity for December holidays
With the latest arrival, PAL’s fleet now stands at 80 aircraft, including 16 A320s deployed primarily across domestic routes.
The airline, the country’s only full-service network carrier and Asia’s first commercial airline, operates flights from Manila, Cebu, Clark, and Davao to 31 domestic and 39 international destinations. It also provides air cargo and charter services and holds an APEX Four-Star rating.
READ: Southwest Airlines, PAL alliance opens links to US gateways
