MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Saturday pledged to modernize the aviation sector as he led the unveiling of the largest and most advanced aircraft of flag carrier Philippine Airlines (PAL) at Villamor Air Base in Pasay City.
Marcos said the launch of PAL’s first Airbus A350-1000 is crucial in strengthening the aviation industry, expanding connectivity, and opening doors to trade, tourism and investment.
He stressed the need for the country to keep pace with a rapidly evolving aviation industry, acknowledging its vital role as a “powerful engine of economic growth and of national development.”
“Since its founding in 1941, PAL has helped connect our people to the world. As the country’s only full-service four-star airline, PAL has consistently provided dependable and quality service for both Filipino and international travelers,” Marcos said.
“PAL’s first A350-1000 opens new possibilities for long-distance travel, including routes to North America. This step complements our efforts to modernize the aviation sector and embrace more sustainable practices for the future,” he added.
Marcos reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to upgrading infrastructure, modernizing airports, and enhancing connectivity aimed at propelling the country’s economic growth.
He noted the ongoing construction of a Modular Passenger Terminal Building (PTB) at Siargao Airport in Surigao del Norte and a new International PTB in Davao, as well as the upgrade and expansion of the Laguindingan Airport in Misamis Oriental, Bohol-Panglao Airport on Panglao Island, and Caticlan Airport in Aklan.
He added that the establishment of a new terminal is underway to better serve local travelers and tourists, and spur regional development and economic growth.
He cited the government’s collaboration with the private sector to modernize, operate and maintain the Ninoy Aquino International Airport in the cities of Pasay and Parañaque, touting the recent launch of immigration eGates to make travel faster, safer and more efficient.
“These are our investments in mobility, in opportunity and in national progress,” Marcos said. “While airlines move people, government ensures that those pathways remain strong and clear.”
Marcos sought closer cooperation and collaboration with private partners on aviation-centered initiatives to boost the Philippines’ competitiveness and open more doors for Filipinos.
“Together, let us shape a Bagong Pilipinas (New Philippines) where our people are free to explore, where our regions are better connected and where opportunity is within reach,” he said.
The event coincided with the celebration of PAL’s 85th founding anniversary.
Marking a significant milestone as Southeast Asia’s first, the highly anticipated A350-1000 serves as PAL’s latest, largest and most advanced aircraft, expanding its network and improving the overall flying experience.
PAL plans to operate the next-generation widebody Airbus A350-1000 on its transpacific routes, featuring a spacious three-class cabin layout that accommodates up to 382 passengers. The cabin includes 42 seats in Business Class, 24 in Premium Economy and 316 in Economy.
The acquisition of the Airbus A350-1000 brings PAL’s total fleet to 82 aircraft.
Powered by Rolls-Royce Trent XWB-97 turbofan engines, each capable of delivering up to 97,000 pounds of thrust, the A350-1000 boasts enhanced efficiency and reliability. (PNA)
