Manila, January 17 (AseanAll) — Philippine President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on January 17, 2026 marked Philippine Airlines’ 85-year legacy of world-class service by leading the unveiling of its new Airbus A350-1000, a key step in the airline’s fleet modernization and expansion.
During the celebration, “Legacy in Flight: Celebrating 85 Years of Philippine Airlines (PAL) and the Unveiling of the A350-1000,” held at the Villamor Air Base in Pasay City, Marcos recognized the flag carrier’s legacy built on resilience, service, and dedication to connecting Filipinos with the world.
PAL has remained a steady presence in the country’s national story through changing times and growing challenges, the President said.
PAL is Asia’s first commercial airline. It owns the distinction of being the first Asian airline to cross the Pacific Ocean (1946) and fly to Europe (1947).
The addition to the PAL fleet of the Airbus A350-1000, one of the most modern widebody aircraft designed for long-haul travel, underscores the importance of keeping pace with a rapidly evolving aviation industry, the President continued.
“Taken together, these milestones point us firmly towards the future. They strengthen our aviation sector, expand connectivity, and open doors to trade, tourism, and investment,” Marcos said.
“In doing so, we reaffirm aviation’s role as a powerful engine of economic growth and of national development.”
The President said since its founding in 1941, the country’s only full-service four-star airline has consistently provided dependable, high-quality service to both Filipino and international travelers.
The flag carrier has also helped showcase the Philippines’ natural beauty and cultural richness, and more importantly, carried with it the Filipino warmth and hospitality, said President Marcos.
The Chief Executive described PAL’s newly released safety video as engaging, creative, and distinctly Filipino for showcasing the beauty of the country’s landscapes, while weaving in the familiar intrigue and drama of a Filipino telenovela.
Marcos presided over the unveiling of PAL’s Airbus A350-1000, whose new-generation design and materials bring up to 25 percent reduction in fuel burn—thereby lowering operating costs while significantly cutting carbon emissions.
PAL’s first Airbus A350-1000, which is also the first in Southeast Asia and the tenth worldwide, opens new possibilities for long-distance travel, including routes to North America, according to the President.
“This step complements our efforts to modernize the aviation sector and embrace more sustainable practices for the future,” Marcos said.
