In observance of the Holy Week, the Philippine News Agency’s online news service will be off on March 29, Good Friday, and March 30, Black Saturday. Normal operations will resume on March 31, Easter Sunday.

— The Editors

PAL's 2nd new A350 for non-stop, long-haul flights arrives

By Ma. Cristina Arayata

August 15, 2018, 9:47 pm

MANILA -- Philippine Airlines' (PAL) second of six Airbus A350 orders arrived in Manila on Wednesday, less than a month after the flag carrier rolled-out its first Airbus A350 last July 17.

The Airbus A350 XWB will be used for long haul flights.

This type of aircraft will be used to fly non-stop to New York and to London by October. Other routes in North America and Europe are expected after a year, PAL officials said earlier.

According to PAL, the A350 can fly up to 8,000 nautical miles, and also claimed that the aircraft's cabin is quieter compared with other aircraft, since it uses a design and technology that reduce the noise by up to four times.

All passenger seats have personal TV screens, and passengers will also be given wi-fi access for free (subject to time and volume caps).

"Four more Airbus A350 are set to be delivered within the next year and a half," PAL spokesperson Cielo Villaluna said Wednesday.

She added that the new A350 planes form part of the carrier's fleet modernization program, aiming to provide a more comfortable experience to the passengers.

Last month, PAL also rolled out its brand new A321neo alongside the A350 aircraft.

The A321neo will be used for PAL's Manila-Sapporo route, which will start this September. Currently, PAL also uses an A321neo for its nonstop Manila-Brisbane flights.

This 168-seater aircraft showcases modern innovations in cabin layout and seat design. There is more cabin space and better legroom for passengers even in the economy seats.

A total of six A321neos will be delivered within the year, the airline said. (PNA)

Comments