MANILA, Philippines –– Philippine Airlines (PAL), the country’s flag carrier, has accepted the delivery of the first of five additional Airbus A320 aircraft, to boost the airline’s domestic route network.
PAL will add another A320 before the end of 2025, with three more joining the fleet in 2026. Each of these A320s, configured to carry 180 passengers, will enable PAL to increase flight frequency and provide more seamless connections between the country’s major hubs and various regional destinations. This fleet expansion will give travelers greater flexibility and improved access to different locations across the Philippines.
“By expanding our A320 fleet, we are providing travelers with more reliable, convenient, and comfortable options,” said Rabbi Vincent Ang, President of PAL Express.
The A320 aircraft are part of PAL’s broader fleet enhancement initiatives, which also include the modernization of long-haul routes with Airbus A350-1000s, upgrades to existing narrow-body aircraft, and plans to acquire new A321neo jets. These investments are designed to improve operational reliability and elevate the in-flight experience for every passenger.
“Right-sizing our fleet enables PAL to maintain and improve our On-Time Performance (OTP) scores, ensuring we continue to operate with the highest standards of reliability, safety, and efficiency,” Ang added. He further emphasized that PAL has been recognized by Cirium as the leading airline for On-Time Performance (OTP) among Asia-Pacific carriers for three consecutive months, from August to October this year.
In time for the peak season, Philippine Airlines has significantly increased flight frequencies on key routes—including Butuan, Cagayan de Oro, Cotabato, Legazpi (Daraga), Dumaguete, and Tacloban—to strengthen domestic connectivity.
The latest addition will increase Philippine Airlines’ systemwide fleet to 80 aircraft, including 16 A320s deployed across key domestic routes.