PAL to Acquire Boeing 787 Dreamliners, Enhancing Long-Haul Fleet and Sustainability

Flag carrier Philippine Airlines (PAL) has signed an initial commitment to purchase up to 20 jets from Boeing, paving the way for the country to welcome its first Dreamliner. PAL on Monday signed a memorandum of understanding with aviation giant Boeing to procure 15 787-10 Dreamliner jets, with the option of adding five more in the future. The deal was announced during the Farnborough International Airshow, with PAL Holdings Inc. president and chief operating officer Lucio Tan III signing the order for the airline. The purchase also marks the first time a local carrier is investing in the Dreamliner. The jet is considered in the aviation industry as the lightest and smoothest long-range aircraft. The 787-10 is the largest variant of the Dreamliner family, capable of handling between 300 and 375 passengers. The aircraft is also designed to fly as far as 13,890 kilometers, allowing PAL to reach its longest destinations, particularly North America. Likewise, Boeing said passengers can expect enhanced comfort in the 787-10, such as dimmable windows, higher humidity for dry air, and reduced air turbulence. Tan also sees the sustainability advantage of investing in the 787-10, as it burns 25 percent less fuel than previous generations. “The Boeing 787-10 will strengthen our medium- and long-haul fleet, allowing us to provide an even better travel experience for PAL customers while improving operational efficiency and also supporting our long-term sustainability goals,” Tan said. For PAL, the order signals the return of its brand trust in Boeing, as the last time it ordered from the American manufacturer was in 2007. PAL remains the only Philippine carrier managing Boeing aircraft, as it operates 10 777-300ER in its fleet. PAL picked the Dreamliner for its new aircraft order since several Boeing suppliers operate in the Philippines. These include Jamco Philippines, Moog Inc. and Rockwell Collins, and they are expected to make it easier for PAL to maintain the Dreamliners. PAL expects the delivery of the Dreamliners between 2031 and 2034, with the first scheduled for 2031. Currently, PAL is in the process of receiving nine new long-range aircraft in the make of Airbus A350-1000s, the completion of which is set for 2027.