Philippine flag-carrier Philippine Airlines (PAL) announced its plans to augment its fleet for domestic operations on Wednesday, December 3. PAL recently accepted the delivery of five Airbus A320 aircraft, with one more unit expected to arrive before the year ends, and an additional six slated for next year.

In a statement to the media, PAL Express president Rabbi Vincent Ang stated:

“By expanding our A320 fleet, we are providing travelers with more reliable, convenient, and comfortable options.”

New aircraft for increased capacity

Each new aircraft is designed to accommodate 180 passengers, allowing PAL to enhance its flight frequency. Ang further explained:

“Right-sizing our fleet enables PAL to maintain and improve our on-time performance scores, ensuring we continue to operate with the highest standards of reliability, safety, and efficiency.”

These additional aircraft are part of PAL’s comprehensive fleet improvement strategy, which includes modernizing long-haul routes using Airbus A350-1000s, upgrades to existing narrow-body aircraft, and plans to introduce new A321neo jets.

PRL emphasized these initiatives aim to increase operational reliability and enhance the passenger experience. Following the augmentation, PAL’s total fleet will rise to 80 aircraft, including 16 A320s operating on major domestic routes.

In preparation for the busy season, PAL has also increased flight frequencies on critical routes such as Butuan, Cagayan de Oro, Cotabato, Legazpi (Daraga), Dumaguete, and Tacloban.