Philippine Airlines' long haul strategy Part 1: accelerated fleet growth and London upgrade

Philippine Airlines (PAL) is embarking on a new phase of long haul expansion as the airline takes delivery of eight long haul aircraft over the next two years. PAL will use the expanded long haul fleet to increase its capacity to London significantly later this year, while capacity to North America will likely increase by approximately 50% in 2018-2019.

The Manila-London route has been allocated two additional 777-300ERs, which are being delivered in late 2017. PAL launched London in late 2013 with 777-300ERs, but in the past three years has been serving the London market with smaller A340-300s.

PAL also plans to take delivery of four A350-900s in 2018, and two more A350s in 1H2019. Most of the 10 widebody aircraft being added over the next two years are for growth, although in 2019 PAL intends to phase out its A340 fleet, which is now used on a mix of long haul and mainly short/medium haul routes.