Philippine Airlines to Order Boeing 787s and Airbus A350s
Photo: Steve Daniels / CC BY-SA 2.0 — via Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 2.0) · source
Philippine Airlines is preparing to split a major widebody fleet expansion between Boeing and Airbus at the upcoming Farnborough Airshow. The 85-year-old carrier is reportedly finalizing an agreement for 15 Boeing 787-10 Dreamliners and nine Airbus A350-1000s. While the airline already flies the A350-1000, this deal marks its first time acquiring the 787-10. For aspiring heavy jet pilots, this dual-fleet strategy points to a robust pipeline of widebody hiring and diverse type-rating opportunities on long-haul international routes.
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As the 2026 Farnborough Airshow approaches, the commercial aviation sector is watching for major fleet commitments. Philippine Airlines is signaling a strong, balanced approach to its long-haul modernization by reportedly selecting both the Airbus A350-1000 and the Boeing 787-10 Dreamliner. This split-order strategy mirrors recent moves by other legacy carriers, such as the Lufthansa Group, which opted for a similar mix of A350s and 787s earlier this year. For the carrier, adding nine more A350-1000s builds on an existing relationship; the airline took delivery of its first two frames in recent months and already has several more in the backlog. However, the introduction of 15 Boeing 787-10s represents a significant shift. Although Philippine Airlines currently operates the Boeing 777-300ER, adding the Dreamliner introduces a new type to their hangars, emphasizing fuel efficiency and capacity optimization for transpacific and high-demand regional corridors. For commercial aviators and student pilots tracking industry trends, this development underscores a broader airline industry preference for fleet flexibility over single-manufacturer loyalty. Operating parallel modern widebody fleets allows airlines to hedge against supply chain delays and maintenance bottlenecks. It also translates directly into diverse career pathways on the flight deck. An expanding dual-type heavy fleet requires extensive pilot training programs, simulator investments, and a steady stream of first officers stepping up to long-haul operations. As the airshow kicks off, industry observers will be watching to see if the exact numbers hold firm, and how other global operators position their widebody procurement strategies in an increasingly competitive market.