Philippine Airlines is set to enhance its premium services by upgrading its flagship business class to international standards on its new fleet of Airbus A350-1000 jets. The first of these jets is expected to start flying to the United States in early 2026. The airline has nine A350-1000s on order with an option to purchase three more, and the first five will be delivered in 2026, followed by three more in 2027.
The new A350-1000 jets will bring significant improvements to the premium economy and economy classes as well. These include larger 4K video screens with USB-C power ports. With this fleet modernization, the Filipino flag-carrier aims to offer its customers a more comfortable and enjoyable travel experience.
The A350-1000 jets will primarily operate flights to key destinations in the United States and Canada, and may also open up new routes to Europe. However, before being deployed on long-haul flights, the first A350-1000 is expected to fly on a few regional routes within Asia, such as Bangkok and Singapore, to familiarize pilots and crew with the new aircraft.
The A350-1000 will have 42 business class suites, 24 premium economy recliners, and 316 economy seats. All passengers will have access to in-flight Wi-Fi at different package options and prices. The interiors of the aircraft will also feature LED mood lighting with 22 different settings inspired by the colors of the Philippines.
The business class experience on the A350-1000 will be transformed with the introduction of 42 private suites. Each suite will have a sliding privacy door and high walls measuring 46 inches (1. 2 meters), providing a sense of seclusion to passengers. This design is based on the Elevation platform from Collins Aerospace, which is also used by British Airways and Malaysia Airlines for their business class cabins.
The A350-1000 premium economy class will have an updated version of Philippine Airlines’ previous premium economy seat. It will feature a 2-4-2 layout with 19-inch wide seats, a 7-inch recline, and a 38-inch pitch. Passengers will have access to AC, USB-A, and USB-C power outlets, with the USB-C port providing a fast-charging option for devices.
The economy class on the A350-1000 will have 316 seats in a 3-4-3 layout. Each seat will have a 4K video screen, USB charging ports, and an integrated mobile device stand. The seats will be 16. 5 inches wide with a 32-inch pitch and a 6-inch recline.
Apart from the A350-1000, Philippine Airlines will also upgrade its Boeing 777 and Airbus A330 jets with new business class suites. However, this will not begin until late 2027, as the airline faces supply chain issues like the rest of the industry.