By Dean Aubrey Caratiquet
Cognizant of the challenges and opportunities associated with the rapidly evolving aviation industry, the Philippine Airlines (PAL) decided to up its game through the acquisition of a new Airbus A350-1000 as part of the flag carrier’s fleet modernization and expansion efforts.
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos presided over the unveiling of the new aircraft in a ceremony held at Villamor Air Base on Saturday night, celebrating this new milestone vis-à-vis PAL’s 85-year anniversary in the global aviation space.
The new Airbus A350-1000 makes use of advanced materials and a new-generation design that contributes to a 25% reduction in fuel burn, lowering carbon emissions and operating costs for the flag carrier while paving the way for long-distance travel—including routes to North America.
In his remarks at the event, the President paid homage to the flag carrier’s storied backdrop intertwined with the country’s history, likewise honoring PAL’s milestones such as being Asia’s first commercial airline, and the first to cross the Pacific Ocean (1946) and fly to Europe (1947).
President Marcos Jr. said in his speech, “Since its founding in 1941, PAL has helped connect our people to the world. As the country’s only full-service four-star airline, PAL has consistently provided dependable and quality service for both Filipino and international travelers.”
He added further, praising PAL’s newly released safety video, “Through decades, the airline has helped showcase the Philippines’ natural beauty and cultural richness. And more importantly, it has carried with it the warmth and hospitality that define us as a people by connecting our nation to global destinations and opportunities.”
A brighter future for the domestic aviation industry
The Chief Executive moreover reaffirmed his administration’s commitment towards the modernization of airports and other transportation infrastructure to bring inclusive regional development and economic progress across the archipelago.
These efforts include a modular Passenger Terminal Building (PTB) being constructed in the Siargao Airport, a new International PTB in Davao International Airport, and a PTB that is set to rise at Caticlan Airport.
Aviation-centric upgrades and further efforts to expand the Laguindingan Airport in Misamis Oriental and the Bohol-Panglao International Airport are likewise underway, through the help of private sector partners.
President Marcos Jr. concluded his remarks by encouraging stakeholders in the private sector to establish further collaboration with the government to construct better infrastructure that would up the country’s global competitiveness and improve travel experiences for Filipinos’ and foreigners alike.
The event concluded with the First Couple’s guided tour of the facilities and amenities of PAL’s Airbus A350-1000, one of the most modern widebody aircraft in the world and also the first of its kind in Southeast Asia.
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