Philippine Airlines Eyes A350-1000 and 787-10 Order at Farnborough 2026

Reports indicate Philippine Airlines (PAL) is poised to place a major dual-manufacturer widebody order ahead of the Farnborough International Airshow, which opens July 20. According to industry sources and Reuters, the package would include 15 Boeing 787-10 Dreamliners and nine Airbus A350-1000s — one of the largest fleet expansion plans in the carrier's history.

Strategic Fleet Diversification

The proposed deal would mark PAL's first direct Boeing order in nearly 20 years, signaling a deliberate shift toward a dual-manufacturer strategy. Some analysts suggest the final mix could settle at an even 10-10 split, though primary reporting points to a 24-aircraft package intended to bolster long-haul operations from the carrier's Ninoy Aquino International Airport (RPLL) hub. The Airbus A350-1000 is well-suited for high-density, long-range routes, while the 787-10 offers fuel efficiency on trunk corridors to North America and Europe.

Industry Implications

Neither Philippine Airlines, Boeing, nor Airbus has officially confirmed the negotiations. Analysts note that Boeing's inclusion would likely trigger a powerplant competition between GE Aerospace and Rolls-Royce for the 787 contract. More broadly, the dual-supplier approach is seen as a calculated move to reduce operational risk and strengthen PAL's pricing leverage — a growing priority for carriers rebuilding post-pandemic long-haul networks. An official announcement is widely expected during Farnborough.