Legacy in Flight: Celebrating 85 Years of Philippine Airlines and the Unveiling of the A350-1000

January 17, 2026

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., together with First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos, honored Philippine Airlines’ (PAL) invaluable contributions to the nation during its 85th founding anniversary celebration at Lufthansa Technik Philippines in Pasay City.

“Today, we mark 85 years of Philippine Airlines— a legacy built on resilience, service, and dedication to connecting Filipinos with the world. Through changing times and growing challenges, PAL has remained a steady presence in our national story,” the President said in his keynote message.

The main highlight of the event is the unveiling ceremony and tour of the Airbus A350-1000, PAL’s newest aircraft acquisition, making it the first of its kind in Southeast Asia and the 10th in the world. PAL’s top executives, led by Lucio C. Tan III, accompanied the First Couple.

PAL is set to operate the Airbus A350-1000 on transpacific routes. It features a three-class cabin layout with 42 Business Class seats, 24 Premium Economy seats, and 316 Economy seats for a total of 382 passengers. Powered by Rolls-Royce Trent XWB-97 turbofan engines, the aircraft can generate up to 97,000 pounds of thrust and achieves significant fuel efficiency improvements of up to 25% reduction in fuel consumption.

Complementing these achievements, President Marcos Jr. highlighted ongoing airport upgrades, including terminal projects in Siargao and Davao; expansion of Laguindingan and Bohol-Panglao through public-private partnerships (PPPs); and a new terminal at Caticlan to better serve tourists and local travelers. These projects are expected to boost regional development and economic growth.

The Chief Executive also announced that the modernization of Manila Airport has already implemented new facilities and immigration e-Gates as of December 2025 to make travel faster and more efficient.

“As Philippine Airlines continues its journey, may it remain a steady partner in nation-building by helping carry our people, our products, and our dreams to the world,” President Marcos Jr. said, urging private stakeholders to keep working with the government on aviation-focused initiatives to boost the Philippines’ competitiveness and create more opportunities for Filipinos.

Another highlight of the evening was the launch of PAL’s theme song, ‘Fly with Heart,’ led by acclaimed composer Maestro Louie Ocampo with the Philharmonic Orchestra, and featuring world-class artists Gary Valenciano, Ogie Alcasid and Martin Nievera.

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